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The Jezebel Files #3
Shadows & Surrender
Ash wanted a career filled with challenging mysteries.
She should have specified she didn’t mean her family.
When a murder scene reveals a connection to Ash’s father who abandoned her when she was thirteen, she's stunned. He may be the key to stopping Chariot from achieving immortality.
The catch? He could be hiding anywhere in the world.
To make matters worse, Levi, Ash's romantic entanglement and brand-new boss, has his first official case for her: helping his ex-girlfriend, a.k.a. Ash's childhood tormentor.
No one ever said adulting was easy.
As secrets multiply and alliances get deadlier, Ash's investigation takes her back into Hedon and into her own past. Cracking this case could reunite her family... or cost her everyone she holds dear.
Actual ghosts have nothing on the ghosts of her past.
She should have specified she didn’t mean her family.
When a murder scene reveals a connection to Ash’s father who abandoned her when she was thirteen, she's stunned. He may be the key to stopping Chariot from achieving immortality.
The catch? He could be hiding anywhere in the world.
To make matters worse, Levi, Ash's romantic entanglement and brand-new boss, has his first official case for her: helping his ex-girlfriend, a.k.a. Ash's childhood tormentor.
No one ever said adulting was easy.
As secrets multiply and alliances get deadlier, Ash's investigation takes her back into Hedon and into her own past. Cracking this case could reunite her family... or cost her everyone she holds dear.
Actual ghosts have nothing on the ghosts of her past.
Kindle Edition
First published June 2, 2020
954 people are currently reading
499 people want to read
About the author
Deborah Wilde
42 books1,057 followersDeborah Wilde is a global wanderer and hopeless romantic. After twelve years as a screenwriter, she was also a total cynic with a broken edit button, so, she jumped ship, started writing funny, sexy, urban fantasy and paranormal women’s fiction books, and never looked back.
She loves writing smart, flawed, wisecracking women who can solve a mystery, kick supernatural butt, banter with hot men, and still make time for their best female friend, because those were the women she grew up around and admired. Granted, her grandmother never had to kill a demon at her weekly friend lunches, but Deborah is pretty sure she could have.
she/her
Smart (ass) heroines. Epic magic. Red-hot romance.
She loves writing smart, flawed, wisecracking women who can solve a mystery, kick supernatural butt, banter with hot men, and still make time for their best female friend, because those were the women she grew up around and admired. Granted, her grandmother never had to kill a demon at her weekly friend lunches, but Deborah is pretty sure she could have.
she/her
Smart (ass) heroines. Epic magic. Red-hot romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
September 28, 2021
This is third in a UF series that builds character and story arcs over time. So read them in order.
So you know what you're in for by this time in the series. I'll note that Wilde comes into her stride, I think. That's mainly with Ash and Levi and both their professional and intimate relationships. But also the Hedon plotline and the Queen of Hearts.
The broader story with the families confuses me, I'll admit. I mean, I don't really get having a connection with people who have abused you or who put boundaries on your relationship that require lying and façades to maintain. Like, Ash's mom tells her to bury a key part of herself to maintain their relationship and I'm thinking that pretty much ends Ash's commitment to protecting her from the consequences of the bigotry she is actively promoting. But no, Ash tells Levi that she'll hate him if he hurts her mom. Even though mom is actively working to destroy Levi. And even though that's not personal (it's part of her bigotry, not a vendetta), it still makes her fair game as far as I'm concerned. So I don't get the family dynamic is what I'm saying. I wonder if that's a cultural thing?
Anyway, I liked the developments, even though each joy has its downside in pain. I liked the progress. And I liked that Ash screws up, sometimes, and has to make things better. I particularly like how she has grown into owning those mistakes and having the guts to make a stand for what she wants even though she knows she'll make mistakes in future.
So five stars, even though the ending made me sad. I was excited to start the next, but then I read the blurb and it had me scratching my head as none of the things mentioned seem like they should be things that happen. . It makes me hesitant to pick it up because it seems to start with a significant influx of stupid.
A note about Steamy: There are two explicit sex scenes, but they aren't long. So this is the lower end of my steam tolerance, and about perfect for the story.
So you know what you're in for by this time in the series. I'll note that Wilde comes into her stride, I think. That's mainly with Ash and Levi and both their professional and intimate relationships. But also the Hedon plotline and the Queen of Hearts.
The broader story with the families confuses me, I'll admit. I mean, I don't really get having a connection with people who have abused you or who put boundaries on your relationship that require lying and façades to maintain. Like, Ash's mom tells her to bury a key part of herself to maintain their relationship and I'm thinking that pretty much ends Ash's commitment to protecting her from the consequences of the bigotry she is actively promoting. But no, Ash tells Levi that she'll hate him if he hurts her mom. Even though mom is actively working to destroy Levi. And even though that's not personal (it's part of her bigotry, not a vendetta), it still makes her fair game as far as I'm concerned. So I don't get the family dynamic is what I'm saying. I wonder if that's a cultural thing?
Anyway, I liked the developments, even though each joy has its downside in pain. I liked the progress. And I liked that Ash screws up, sometimes, and has to make things better. I particularly like how she has grown into owning those mistakes and having the guts to make a stand for what she wants even though she knows she'll make mistakes in future.
So five stars, even though the ending made me sad. I was excited to start the next, but then I read the blurb and it had me scratching my head as none of the things mentioned seem like they should be things that happen. . It makes me hesitant to pick it up because it seems to start with a significant influx of stupid.
A note about Steamy: There are two explicit sex scenes, but they aren't long. So this is the lower end of my steam tolerance, and about perfect for the story.
June 10, 2020
I WAS SO RIGHT!!!
I predicted we were due for some drama and boy did we get it!
This new installment is full of dramatic reveals and emotional turmoil.
The cast of characters is thrown into some deep conflict that threatens their bonds.
I definitely had difficulty reading this one, the amount of secrets and angst between the two MCs and how things are left in the end made me roll my eyes and groan in frustration.
Add in the tension of having a hint of love triangle (and a blasts from the past on the form of Levi’s ex) and I’m ready to put this series on hold until it’s done with so I can binge it all like I did with the Navai Katz one.
I felt so disconnected that even the mystery (revolving around Ash’s dad) didn’t feel as satisfying as the others.
The addition of the dog (why did it have to be a pug tho?! Ugh) brings some levity and funny dynamics, but the humor felt very much forced considering everything that happens and has happened so far.
A small side note: the author should do a better job at researching Italian names because she used the name Nicola for a female character and that’s an exclusively male name.
Usually the rule of “change the final o with an a to change a male name into a female one” applies but in this case names like Nicolò, Niccolò/Nicola are all exclusively males, Nicole is the only female counterpart for all of them.
I predicted we were due for some drama and boy did we get it!
This new installment is full of dramatic reveals and emotional turmoil.
The cast of characters is thrown into some deep conflict that threatens their bonds.
I definitely had difficulty reading this one, the amount of secrets and angst between the two MCs and how things are left in the end made me roll my eyes and groan in frustration.
Add in the tension of having a hint of love triangle (and a blasts from the past on the form of Levi’s ex) and I’m ready to put this series on hold until it’s done with so I can binge it all like I did with the Navai Katz one.
I felt so disconnected that even the mystery (revolving around Ash’s dad) didn’t feel as satisfying as the others.
The addition of the dog (why did it have to be a pug tho?! Ugh) brings some levity and funny dynamics, but the humor felt very much forced considering everything that happens and has happened so far.
A small side note: the author should do a better job at researching Italian names because she used the name Nicola for a female character and that’s an exclusively male name.
Usually the rule of “change the final o with an a to change a male name into a female one” applies but in this case names like Nicolò, Niccolò/Nicola are all exclusively males, Nicole is the only female counterpart for all of them.
March 30, 2024
I admit I was kinda bored through the first half of this installment in the Jezebel series. But the second half picked up and was awesome and wonderful and made up for everything… Well, until the very end.
The mostest, mostest awesome in that wonderful is that Ash and Levi FINALLY get over themselves, accept that they are perfect for each other and settle in to a lovely relationship. Yes, it is still fraught with danger and all kinds of complications but they are good! I more than loved that a little.
The relationship with her mother is completely schizophrenic and one I just can’t wrap my head around, though. I could love my mom more than words (and I do) but still could never go along with the way Ash’s mom treats her. She only talks to or interacts with Ash if Ash does exactly what she demands, then insists Ash pretend she is something she is not, ALL while working day and night to destroy the world her daughter lives in? Makes no sense in any brain cell I have.
AND… I can’t even express how disgusted I am at the ending. It goes SO against every single thing the author has developed in Levi’s personality. Zebras can’t change their stripes and even if they did, it couldn’t be done that whiplash fast. HATED it!
So why the four stars and not three (like I planned)? That middle part was everything I enjoy and wanted this series to be.
The mostest, mostest awesome in that wonderful is that Ash and Levi FINALLY get over themselves, accept that they are perfect for each other and settle in to a lovely relationship. Yes, it is still fraught with danger and all kinds of complications but they are good! I more than loved that a little.
The relationship with her mother is completely schizophrenic and one I just can’t wrap my head around, though. I could love my mom more than words (and I do) but still could never go along with the way Ash’s mom treats her. She only talks to or interacts with Ash if Ash does exactly what she demands, then insists Ash pretend she is something she is not, ALL while working day and night to destroy the world her daughter lives in? Makes no sense in any brain cell I have.
AND… I can’t even express how disgusted I am at the ending. It goes SO against every single thing the author has developed in Levi’s personality. Zebras can’t change their stripes and even if they did, it couldn’t be done that whiplash fast. HATED it!
So why the four stars and not three (like I planned)? That middle part was everything I enjoy and wanted this series to be.
June 13, 2020
Family, friends, lovers - relationships are front and centre this time
Levi asks Ash to take on a case helping his ex who also happens to be one of Ash's childhood nemeses (Levi, of course, being the other). You just know it's not going to go well. Ash is also pursuing the truth about the disappearance of her father, Adam, which is a painful task.
Investigations aside, Ash acquires a new companion who is quickly taken to heart by everyone. and we get to know Rafael as she learns more about her Jezebel heritage. I found Rafael fascinating and hope that he is given a happy ending. And Miles definitely grew on me more this time around.
All Deborah's characters are very real with human frailties and strengths. They are funny and insecure and dedicated, and they all have things in their past that continue to influence their present. The world-building is excellent, with Ash travelling across the globe and below it, as well as to the realm of the marvellous Queen of Hearts. The story was fast-paced and action-packed and there was barely a moment to breathe as Ash juggled all her obligations.
Ash and Levi's relationship is becoming more serious and I loved their interactions. Levi showed how much Ash meant to him and it broke my heart, and then with the revelation at the end of the book, it broke all over again. I was completely consumed by these two and I am desperate for the next book to find out how everything is going to turn out.
Levi asks Ash to take on a case helping his ex who also happens to be one of Ash's childhood nemeses (Levi, of course, being the other). You just know it's not going to go well. Ash is also pursuing the truth about the disappearance of her father, Adam, which is a painful task.
Investigations aside, Ash acquires a new companion who is quickly taken to heart by everyone. and we get to know Rafael as she learns more about her Jezebel heritage. I found Rafael fascinating and hope that he is given a happy ending. And Miles definitely grew on me more this time around.
All Deborah's characters are very real with human frailties and strengths. They are funny and insecure and dedicated, and they all have things in their past that continue to influence their present. The world-building is excellent, with Ash travelling across the globe and below it, as well as to the realm of the marvellous Queen of Hearts. The story was fast-paced and action-packed and there was barely a moment to breathe as Ash juggled all her obligations.
Ash and Levi's relationship is becoming more serious and I loved their interactions. Levi showed how much Ash meant to him and it broke my heart, and then with the revelation at the end of the book, it broke all over again. I was completely consumed by these two and I am desperate for the next book to find out how everything is going to turn out.
January 31, 2022
Book-specific: The one that sets up the finale and gives me a tease of relationship Ash and Levi, then rips it unceremoniously away. It was more emotionally fraught but worth the payoff. Made me want more.
Series Overview: Now, I’ve torn through her books like a storm through a paper tablecloth so I can definitely say I like Ms. Wilde’s writing style and that this particular series is more focused on the relationship/romance between Levi and Ashira than the first. I like that this features a diverse set of characters who live in Vancouver and the mythology of the magic is slightly different than the other series I’ve read from Ms. Wilde. Also, the overarching storyline regarding Ash’s particular magic being designed to take down a nebulous criminal cabal intent on gaining immortality is strong enough to carry through each book, but even if there’s a mild cliffhanger in each, you feel satisfied that each book has a beginning, middle and end. I really liked it.
Series Overview: Now, I’ve torn through her books like a storm through a paper tablecloth so I can definitely say I like Ms. Wilde’s writing style and that this particular series is more focused on the relationship/romance between Levi and Ashira than the first. I like that this features a diverse set of characters who live in Vancouver and the mythology of the magic is slightly different than the other series I’ve read from Ms. Wilde. Also, the overarching storyline regarding Ash’s particular magic being designed to take down a nebulous criminal cabal intent on gaining immortality is strong enough to carry through each book, but even if there’s a mild cliffhanger in each, you feel satisfied that each book has a beginning, middle and end. I really liked it.
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July 23, 2024The problem with putting a book down for a long time is you might forget where you left off and the basic plot. Also, I shouldn’t have peeked at the next book. It spoiled this book, which I had been thoroughly enjoying. Now, I’ve lost interest in completing the series.
July 5, 2021
How can a book be so hilarious and so heartrending at the same time?
And how many times am I going to need to reread this one?
Book three picks up after the second ends, so go read the whole series if you haven't. We've got three main challenges in this one:
1) Levi's ex is acting weird, and he asks Ash to investigate
2) Ash decides it's time to pull out all the stops in the hunt for her missing father
3) Ash & Levi's no-strings-attached relationship
This was such a Wilde rollercoaster. (heh heh see what I did there?) But actually, it was crazy. Each of the three threads leads to unexpected, nail-biting, can't-watch-but-I-have-to discoveries. The ups and downs in the last 70% gave me whiplash, and my heart felt like it was being ripped out of my chest about four times, in actual physical pain, (you'll know it when you get there), and now I'm still sitting on my couch forty minutes later wondering if all that really happened.
It's hard to believe that these books keep getting better, but they do. Wilde plays all the right notes and STILL thwarts my expectations every time.
And how many times am I going to need to reread this one?
Book three picks up after the second ends, so go read the whole series if you haven't. We've got three main challenges in this one:
1) Levi's ex is acting weird, and he asks Ash to investigate
2) Ash decides it's time to pull out all the stops in the hunt for her missing father
3) Ash & Levi's no-strings-attached relationship
This was such a Wilde rollercoaster. (heh heh see what I did there?) But actually, it was crazy. Each of the three threads leads to unexpected, nail-biting, can't-watch-but-I-have-to discoveries. The ups and downs in the last 70% gave me whiplash, and my heart felt like it was being ripped out of my chest about four times, in actual physical pain, (you'll know it when you get there), and now I'm still sitting on my couch forty minutes later wondering if all that really happened.
It's hard to believe that these books keep getting better, but they do. Wilde plays all the right notes and STILL thwarts my expectations every time.
June 6, 2020
I don't know if its because I binged the author's entire other series, which I totally loved, but this one didn't quite have the same enjoyment level of the first books.
It is still a good series, and I really like the writer, but I didn't find myself massively enthralled in the over arching plot, although it was certainly busy.
I also find Ash and Levi a little fraustrating. Nava and Rohan might have been very angsty, but I was so invested in them that I didn't mind. With these two, though, the angst annoys me a little and the ending scene with them disappointed me.
I'm still definitely in for the final book, though!
It is still a good series, and I really like the writer, but I didn't find myself massively enthralled in the over arching plot, although it was certainly busy.
I also find Ash and Levi a little fraustrating. Nava and Rohan might have been very angsty, but I was so invested in them that I didn't mind. With these two, though, the angst annoys me a little and the ending scene with them disappointed me.
I'm still definitely in for the final book, though!
September 17, 2020
Even though this was all over the place with a slow beginning and a bit off in the middle, the last part of the book picked up the plot & pace- interesting ending! makes me want to read the next book now!!
June 7, 2020
Mystery: Check
Romance: Check
Crazy heroine: Check
Fun bonus puppy: Check
5 stars - 6 hour read!
Shadows & Surrender: A Snarky Urban Fantasy Detective Series (The Jezebel Files #3) by Deborah Wilde
When you pick up a Deborah Wilde book, you know you’re going to get strong, kicke-ass heroine, deep characters with a good dose of humor and an snarky personality, and the 3rd book in the Jezebel series is no exception to this. It is amazing and some heart breaking, This was a 5-star book, and I am eagerly anticipating the next in the series as we’ve been given some tantalizing, answers in this book that just raise a whole other load of questions that I am sure that Sherlock and her side-kicks will unravel. Great read this one. Start with book One. You will be in for a ride!
Read this and other Urban Fantasy book reviews online on IG Reads #IGREADS or follow us on Instagram @readsbyig
Romance: Check
Crazy heroine: Check
Fun bonus puppy: Check
5 stars - 6 hour read!
Shadows & Surrender: A Snarky Urban Fantasy Detective Series (The Jezebel Files #3) by Deborah Wilde
When you pick up a Deborah Wilde book, you know you’re going to get strong, kicke-ass heroine, deep characters with a good dose of humor and an snarky personality, and the 3rd book in the Jezebel series is no exception to this. It is amazing and some heart breaking, This was a 5-star book, and I am eagerly anticipating the next in the series as we’ve been given some tantalizing, answers in this book that just raise a whole other load of questions that I am sure that Sherlock and her side-kicks will unravel. Great read this one. Start with book One. You will be in for a ride!
Read this and other Urban Fantasy book reviews online on IG Reads #IGREADS or follow us on Instagram @readsbyig
June 5, 2020
The 3rd book in the Jezebel Files is even better than the last! Fast paced, action & romance filled rollercoaster thrill ride! So much is learned this time. Fans of Darynda Jones’ Charley Davidson series will LOVE this one!
December 8, 2020
What the hell?
Okay first two books were wonderful this one not so much. Ash and Levi were thrown some angst of an ex. Which had the added bonus of a bully of Ash. This book was so lacking in fun to read like the other two. I forced myself to finish. Just was not my favorite
Okay first two books were wonderful this one not so much. Ash and Levi were thrown some angst of an ex. Which had the added bonus of a bully of Ash. This book was so lacking in fun to read like the other two. I forced myself to finish. Just was not my favorite
June 2, 2020
OMG this is absolutely fantabulous! This third book is full of snark and sass, humour and a little romance . Fast paced and full of action with a bad ass, kick ass female mc and an awesome storyline, I read this in just one sitting and I cannot recommend this enough!
August 6, 2020
The ending 🙁
October 3, 2020
**4.5 stars**
November 9, 2022
This author is becoming one of my favorites!! The first book is the best in my opinion though :))
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March 19, 2023DNF @ 48%. A thousand percent a “me thing”. I just lost interest and was bored.
March 5, 2023
Bei diesem handelt es sich um den 3. Teil der vierteiligen Reihe. Wieder einmal wirft die Autorin einen direkt in die Handlung, was ich an Anfang etwas verwirrend fand. Das macht die Autorin aber immer und man gewöhnt sich auch irgendwie an dieses Durcheinander am Anfang.
Die Handlung wird wieder aus der Sicht von Ash erzählt, die ziemlich viel zutun hat. Da wäre einmal die Kampf gegen Chariot. Hier entdeckt Ash, dass ihr Vater irgendwie mit denen in Kontakt stand. Und dann muss sie für Levi auch noch dessen Ex-Freundin beschatten, weil diese sich seltsam benimmt.
Mir persönlich hätte tatsächlich ein Fall gereicht, teilweise wirkte die Handlung doch etwas vollgestopft. Trotzdem fand ich den 3. Teil wieder sehr spannend und unterhaltsam. Es gibt viele interessante Entwicklungen und auch Ash und Levis Gefühle füreinander werden deutlich mehr thematisiert.
Freue mich schon sehr auf das Finale. Von mir gibt es wieder die volle Punktzahl.
Die Handlung wird wieder aus der Sicht von Ash erzählt, die ziemlich viel zutun hat. Da wäre einmal die Kampf gegen Chariot. Hier entdeckt Ash, dass ihr Vater irgendwie mit denen in Kontakt stand. Und dann muss sie für Levi auch noch dessen Ex-Freundin beschatten, weil diese sich seltsam benimmt.
Mir persönlich hätte tatsächlich ein Fall gereicht, teilweise wirkte die Handlung doch etwas vollgestopft. Trotzdem fand ich den 3. Teil wieder sehr spannend und unterhaltsam. Es gibt viele interessante Entwicklungen und auch Ash und Levis Gefühle füreinander werden deutlich mehr thematisiert.
Freue mich schon sehr auf das Finale. Von mir gibt es wieder die volle Punktzahl.
November 29, 2022
Ehhhh I didn't like this one as much. It kind of felt like it ended 220 pages in. After they , it was cute, except the pacing got kind of weird. Like. He was protective but easily talked down, except when he was freaking out, and then the whole plot twist about the code name person wasn't reallyyyyy a plot twist but I didn't like either of their reactions to that. The plot of the book was interesting, but I didn't like how all of the character development was just... undone. And the stuff with Rafael feels icky I don't understand why that was necessary.
March 2, 2023
Ich mag die Geschichte. Sie ist nicht herausragend aber unterhaltsam und ich werd auch weiter lesen.
December 5, 2020
Hello Gemmies! I have an exciting book review to share with you today. Shadows & Surrender by Deborah Wilde is a super fun and delightful read. The third book in the Jezebel Files series, this book is part gritty crime noir, part paranormal drama, and part romantic comedy. With influences from Jewish religion and mythology this series feels Different from other paranormal romances.
Shadows & Surrender picks up right after the events in Death & Desire, and the stakes are higher than ever. Full of twists, turns, action, magic, and heartache I read through this book in one day! I cannot express enough how much I love this world and its characters. I am tearing through the series and am fully invested in the series outcome. The plot is well done and continues to build on itself as the series progresses. But, there is also a lot going on! Maybe a little bit too much? I would have been okay with one less plot point. You will definitely be taken on a roller coaster thrill ride in Shadows & Surrender. Trigger warning: this is an adult book as such there is adult language, a few sexually explicit scenes, violence, and one instance of animal cruelty.
We have our usual cast of beloved characters and the introduction of one cutie pie pug named Mrs. Hudson! I find that Shadows & Surrender continues to be a well written character driven story. Ashira is still super sarcastic, snarky, bold, smart, and headstrong. Ditto for Levi. I want these two to get together and stay together so badly, but they are truly their own worst enemies. Insert....super long sigh. We get some very steamy sexy scenes but we also get to spend more time with some of the other characters and learn a bit more backstory on them. I really hope we get to learn more about the Queen of Hearts in the next novel. Shadows & Surrender had a lot of heartbreaking moments in it. By the end I felt truly worn out and just want to give these characters a hug. Side note: some may also need a swift kick in the pants.
Shadows & Surrender is narrated by one person Hollie Jackson. Hollie does a fantastic job of voicing each character. She is able to provide each with a distinct voice and personality. This is especially true with Ashira who needed a super sarcastic tone to make her character's quirky humor come through. Each person felt authentic, and through Hollie's narration I experienced several laugh out loud moments. There are also a few gut punches in this installment, and Hollie is really able to convey that heartbreak. The narration is done at a great pace, it never feels too slow or too fast. This series is a joy to listen to and I can't wait to read the next novel!
If you are a fan of snarky heroine's, thrillers, Sherlock Holmes references, cute dogs, magic, and heartache, then go read this book! This gem published by Te Da Media is available for purchase from all major booksellers. I give Shadows & Surrender 4 out of 5 gems. Happy Reading!
Shadows & Surrender picks up right after the events in Death & Desire, and the stakes are higher than ever. Full of twists, turns, action, magic, and heartache I read through this book in one day! I cannot express enough how much I love this world and its characters. I am tearing through the series and am fully invested in the series outcome. The plot is well done and continues to build on itself as the series progresses. But, there is also a lot going on! Maybe a little bit too much? I would have been okay with one less plot point. You will definitely be taken on a roller coaster thrill ride in Shadows & Surrender. Trigger warning: this is an adult book as such there is adult language, a few sexually explicit scenes, violence, and one instance of animal cruelty.
We have our usual cast of beloved characters and the introduction of one cutie pie pug named Mrs. Hudson! I find that Shadows & Surrender continues to be a well written character driven story. Ashira is still super sarcastic, snarky, bold, smart, and headstrong. Ditto for Levi. I want these two to get together and stay together so badly, but they are truly their own worst enemies. Insert....super long sigh. We get some very steamy sexy scenes but we also get to spend more time with some of the other characters and learn a bit more backstory on them. I really hope we get to learn more about the Queen of Hearts in the next novel. Shadows & Surrender had a lot of heartbreaking moments in it. By the end I felt truly worn out and just want to give these characters a hug. Side note: some may also need a swift kick in the pants.
Shadows & Surrender is narrated by one person Hollie Jackson. Hollie does a fantastic job of voicing each character. She is able to provide each with a distinct voice and personality. This is especially true with Ashira who needed a super sarcastic tone to make her character's quirky humor come through. Each person felt authentic, and through Hollie's narration I experienced several laugh out loud moments. There are also a few gut punches in this installment, and Hollie is really able to convey that heartbreak. The narration is done at a great pace, it never feels too slow or too fast. This series is a joy to listen to and I can't wait to read the next novel!
If you are a fan of snarky heroine's, thrillers, Sherlock Holmes references, cute dogs, magic, and heartache, then go read this book! This gem published by Te Da Media is available for purchase from all major booksellers. I give Shadows & Surrender 4 out of 5 gems. Happy Reading!
June 3, 2020
I. Adore. This. Series!!!!!!!! Found out about it via my bawdy bookworms subscription and I’ve been addicted since. Seriously, if you’re a fan of the urban fantasy genre this needs to be on top of the list of to-reads, right next to the Mercy Thompson series. I work nights and when I saw that it was being released at midnight on the 2nd I was refreshing my kindle app like a mother fucker until it popped up.
Here are some random thoughts/comments:
I’m not gonna lie, I was a bit worried for a minute that Wilde was gonna pull some love triangle bullshit when Raphel got added to the mix at the end of the last book, and while it does play with that idea for a while she actually managed to conclude it really well and make the character gel with the other members of team jezabel. I especially love how he and Ash have to learn to work together and manage her magic addiction problem, and near the end they get a seriously fun rapport going. I’m all for platonic male/female friendships.
Loved loved loved what they did with Levi and Ash (even though I am owed therapy for that ending, I was so shook). I was worried they were never going to be able to smoothly transition from fuck buddies to actual dating adults but it went better than expected and all stayed very much in character. Which I adored of course. The breakup right at the end ripped my heart out and stomped on it but I have faith these two will get their shit together eventually. After they do some serious discussion about secret keeping.
Priya is always a priority in this series. How many books have I read where the best friend character gets pushed and shoved aside whenever Main Love Interest walks through the door? Far too many. But Wilde cares about her and her feelings without othering her. Ash does some pretty selfish and short sighted stuff in this book not gonna lie and seeing her get called out for it was a breath of fresh air. And Pri isn’t the enemy for doing so either. They’re both great girls and I hope Pri gets a nice happily ever after. I just love her so much.
I know this is the second to last book but.... does it have to be???? Seriously this universe is so incredible I could read 1000 of these books and still be inthralled from page to page. God willing Wilde continues to expand on these characters and this world, even if it’s from other perspectives. I would actually die to get a book from inside Levi’s head. Or Arkady oh my god.
Cheers y’all!
Here are some random thoughts/comments:
I’m not gonna lie, I was a bit worried for a minute that Wilde was gonna pull some love triangle bullshit when Raphel got added to the mix at the end of the last book, and while it does play with that idea for a while she actually managed to conclude it really well and make the character gel with the other members of team jezabel. I especially love how he and Ash have to learn to work together and manage her magic addiction problem, and near the end they get a seriously fun rapport going. I’m all for platonic male/female friendships.
Loved loved loved what they did with Levi and Ash (even though I am owed therapy for that ending, I was so shook). I was worried they were never going to be able to smoothly transition from fuck buddies to actual dating adults but it went better than expected and all stayed very much in character. Which I adored of course. The breakup right at the end ripped my heart out and stomped on it but I have faith these two will get their shit together eventually. After they do some serious discussion about secret keeping.
Priya is always a priority in this series. How many books have I read where the best friend character gets pushed and shoved aside whenever Main Love Interest walks through the door? Far too many. But Wilde cares about her and her feelings without othering her. Ash does some pretty selfish and short sighted stuff in this book not gonna lie and seeing her get called out for it was a breath of fresh air. And Pri isn’t the enemy for doing so either. They’re both great girls and I hope Pri gets a nice happily ever after. I just love her so much.
I know this is the second to last book but.... does it have to be???? Seriously this universe is so incredible I could read 1000 of these books and still be inthralled from page to page. God willing Wilde continues to expand on these characters and this world, even if it’s from other perspectives. I would actually die to get a book from inside Levi’s head. Or Arkady oh my god.
Cheers y’all!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2021
I almost docked a star for the relationship reversal at the end because it seems like a way to contrive more drama in the romantic plot line, but the book was just too good for me to do that. Wilde’s exposition was better here than in Book 2 in unraveling the underlying mysteries. It was easier to follow, generally, and retained all the wonderful things of this quirky, dangerous world. Excellent urban fantasy.
One thing though… both Ash and Levi have rather fraught relationships with their parents. Ash’s mother forces Ash to deny an essential part of herself as the price of her acceptance, all while pushing an agenda of bigotry that directly harms Ash, and yet Ash is willing to jump through any hoops Talia puts up for that precious acceptance (not even approval). This is a pretty common dynamic for toxic relationships, especially ones forged in childhood, but I’m waiting for Ash to put herself first.
Levi’s relationship with his father was physically abusive in the past, and Isaac is now actively working to tear down everything that matters to Levi. And yet, Levi does that work for Isaac by torpedoing his relationship with Ash on the grounds of the history between his father and hers. This after nearly burning the world to the ground (figuratively) when he thought Ash dead. It’s the coward’s way out, something I might have expected of Levi, Ash’s teenage bully, but not of Levi, fully formed adult and lover of Ash.
In these two relationships, Ash and Levi are stuck in childhood patterns and I won’t have much more patience for them if there’s no growth in the next book.
One thing though… both Ash and Levi have rather fraught relationships with their parents. Ash’s mother forces Ash to deny an essential part of herself as the price of her acceptance, all while pushing an agenda of bigotry that directly harms Ash, and yet Ash is willing to jump through any hoops Talia puts up for that precious acceptance (not even approval). This is a pretty common dynamic for toxic relationships, especially ones forged in childhood, but I’m waiting for Ash to put herself first.
Levi’s relationship with his father was physically abusive in the past, and Isaac is now actively working to tear down everything that matters to Levi. And yet, Levi does that work for Isaac by torpedoing his relationship with Ash on the grounds of the history between his father and hers. This after nearly burning the world to the ground (figuratively) when he thought Ash dead. It’s the coward’s way out, something I might have expected of Levi, Ash’s teenage bully, but not of Levi, fully formed adult and lover of Ash.
In these two relationships, Ash and Levi are stuck in childhood patterns and I won’t have much more patience for them if there’s no growth in the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2024
Ich sehe un...tote Menschen!
Ashira ist immer noch hinter den Puzzlestücken zur Identität von Chariot her und zum Verbleib ihres Vaters, von dem sie hofft, dass er nicht mit dem Bösewicht unter einer Decke steckt. Doch um so tiefer sie ins Wespennest stochert, um so mehr Beweise tauchen auf und umso geringer die Hoffnung, dass ihr Vater unschuldig ist. Gleichzeitig muss sie an der seltsamen Beziehung zu Rafael ihrem Sekretär arbeiten, die nicht gerade auf gegenseitigem Vertrauen basiert.
Und dann ist da auch noch Levi...
Ihre Beziehung haben sie endlich offen kommuniziert und alles scheint auch gut zu laufen, bis auf einmal Beweise auftauchen, Levis Welt zum Einsturz bringen können und er sich von Ashira zurückzuziehen beginnt.
Ich fand den Band emotional echt schwer zu lesen. Immer wieder musste ich innehalten und verschnaufen, weil es heftig zur Sache geht und Ash (und somit auch wir empathischen Leser) schwer zu kämpfen hat, nicht vollends die Kontrolle zu verlieren.
Und gerade an Levi beginne ich ernsthaft zu zweifeln. Ja, er hat ein schweres Päckchen zu tragen, besonders als Oberhaupt des Houses Pacifica, aber das, was er hier abliefert geht gar nicht. Das ist ein Verhalten für Feiglinge!
Ich traue mich gerade gar nicht, mit Band 4 zu beginnen, auch wenn ich weiß, dass es der letzte Band ist und sich alles auflöst und es ganz bestimmt ein Happy-End gibt. Aber ich bin mir sehr sicher, dass der Weg dahin mich schwer mitnehmen wird und die eine oder andere Träne fließen wird.
Da es mittlerweile schwierig wird, auf den Inhalt einzugehen, ohne zu spoilern halte ich mich vage.
Klare Leseempfehlung für die Reihe um Ashira Cohen!
Ashira ist immer noch hinter den Puzzlestücken zur Identität von Chariot her und zum Verbleib ihres Vaters, von dem sie hofft, dass er nicht mit dem Bösewicht unter einer Decke steckt. Doch um so tiefer sie ins Wespennest stochert, um so mehr Beweise tauchen auf und umso geringer die Hoffnung, dass ihr Vater unschuldig ist. Gleichzeitig muss sie an der seltsamen Beziehung zu Rafael ihrem Sekretär arbeiten, die nicht gerade auf gegenseitigem Vertrauen basiert.
Und dann ist da auch noch Levi...
Ihre Beziehung haben sie endlich offen kommuniziert und alles scheint auch gut zu laufen, bis auf einmal Beweise auftauchen, Levis Welt zum Einsturz bringen können und er sich von Ashira zurückzuziehen beginnt.
Ich fand den Band emotional echt schwer zu lesen. Immer wieder musste ich innehalten und verschnaufen, weil es heftig zur Sache geht und Ash (und somit auch wir empathischen Leser) schwer zu kämpfen hat, nicht vollends die Kontrolle zu verlieren.
Und gerade an Levi beginne ich ernsthaft zu zweifeln. Ja, er hat ein schweres Päckchen zu tragen, besonders als Oberhaupt des Houses Pacifica, aber das, was er hier abliefert geht gar nicht. Das ist ein Verhalten für Feiglinge!
Ich traue mich gerade gar nicht, mit Band 4 zu beginnen, auch wenn ich weiß, dass es der letzte Band ist und sich alles auflöst und es ganz bestimmt ein Happy-End gibt. Aber ich bin mir sehr sicher, dass der Weg dahin mich schwer mitnehmen wird und die eine oder andere Träne fließen wird.
Da es mittlerweile schwierig wird, auf den Inhalt einzugehen, ohne zu spoilern halte ich mich vage.
Klare Leseempfehlung für die Reihe um Ashira Cohen!
December 7, 2020
Bombs Explode
*****Spoilers*****
We finally find out what I've suspected for some time with this series and that is that Levi's dad Isaac is a Chariot member. The budding relationship between Levi and Ash is over before it really got good legs under it, at least temporarily anyway. Who knows what may happen in future? Levi gets to see first hand how Raphael is able to calm Ash's magic and he's not happy about that either though understanding could come in future. But now what since Ash now knows what's going on, who ordered that her father be killed, and that she and Rafael have four of the five scrolls and one more to go.
I'm surprised though that Levi gave up on him Ash so quickly given these revelations when his actions to the end of this book pointed to a depth of feeling for her that is apparent but not expressed yet in words. Too, I'm wondering how Talia fits in. I think she's close to Isaac because she knows he ordered Adam killed and is perhaps working that angle.
Arkady I can see being a double agent and with everything that's going on, he's definitely suspect I think. We'll only see what happens next in the story.
Ash takes an involuntary trip to Seoul with the souls of the dead and relives the deaths of the other Jezebels that came before her. Her thinking gets her out but right after, she saves Levi from himself before the bomb is dropped. I like Ash, her comebacks are funny and entertaining. The Sherlock stuff still goes over my head but it's not a need to know part to enjoy the series.
*****Spoilers*****
We finally find out what I've suspected for some time with this series and that is that Levi's dad Isaac is a Chariot member. The budding relationship between Levi and Ash is over before it really got good legs under it, at least temporarily anyway. Who knows what may happen in future? Levi gets to see first hand how Raphael is able to calm Ash's magic and he's not happy about that either though understanding could come in future. But now what since Ash now knows what's going on, who ordered that her father be killed, and that she and Rafael have four of the five scrolls and one more to go.
I'm surprised though that Levi gave up on him Ash so quickly given these revelations when his actions to the end of this book pointed to a depth of feeling for her that is apparent but not expressed yet in words. Too, I'm wondering how Talia fits in. I think she's close to Isaac because she knows he ordered Adam killed and is perhaps working that angle.
Arkady I can see being a double agent and with everything that's going on, he's definitely suspect I think. We'll only see what happens next in the story.
Ash takes an involuntary trip to Seoul with the souls of the dead and relives the deaths of the other Jezebels that came before her. Her thinking gets her out but right after, she saves Levi from himself before the bomb is dropped. I like Ash, her comebacks are funny and entertaining. The Sherlock stuff still goes over my head but it's not a need to know part to enjoy the series.
February 13, 2021
Got this from KU.
This one starts with Ash being questioned by the police over the death of someone from the first book in this series, the security guard at the auction. This then leads Ash to the guys sister who was also indirectly involved in that first book by setting the wards on the holding cells. She also gets hired by Levi to find out what's happening with his ex, Mayan, who has never been nice to her, and the fact that she came to him for help before doing a 360 and flirting with him. It's all rather intriguing as things progress further in her hunt to find Chariot and she learns more about her magic.
I had a big grin on my face about the direction things have been heading in regards to Ash and Levi and woohoo! They finally admit that things are great between them and agree to become a couple. Things don't always go smoothly though, not when secrets come out. I was ready to chuck my laptop and kindle when it all started to fall apart at the end.
As for the mystery of her dad...well, we learn of what happened 15 years ago. It's a rather complicated story and I did feel for Ash when she learnt what went down. It's all tied up in the Chariot issue and I am looking forward to the next book so I can see her take down the shady organisation.
Ash certainly has a lot to deal with in this but I love her support team, they're all pretty amazing in their own way and I'm off to start book 4 to see if they will finally bring down the bad guys and get their happily ever afters with their significant others.
This one starts with Ash being questioned by the police over the death of someone from the first book in this series, the security guard at the auction. This then leads Ash to the guys sister who was also indirectly involved in that first book by setting the wards on the holding cells. She also gets hired by Levi to find out what's happening with his ex, Mayan, who has never been nice to her, and the fact that she came to him for help before doing a 360 and flirting with him. It's all rather intriguing as things progress further in her hunt to find Chariot and she learns more about her magic.
I had a big grin on my face about the direction things have been heading in regards to Ash and Levi and woohoo! They finally admit that things are great between them and agree to become a couple. Things don't always go smoothly though, not when secrets come out. I was ready to chuck my laptop and kindle when it all started to fall apart at the end.
As for the mystery of her dad...well, we learn of what happened 15 years ago. It's a rather complicated story and I did feel for Ash when she learnt what went down. It's all tied up in the Chariot issue and I am looking forward to the next book so I can see her take down the shady organisation.
Ash certainly has a lot to deal with in this but I love her support team, they're all pretty amazing in their own way and I'm off to start book 4 to see if they will finally bring down the bad guys and get their happily ever afters with their significant others.
May 27, 2020
You guys, I'm not going to lie... this book was AMAZING!
I mean, it had it all, a lot of action, snarky humor, some romance (but not too much... even though it's Levi, don't say you would mind hmm!?), oh oh oh.. and a puppy (lol) :D
Worldbuilding was, as always, great! We went all over the place and all scenes and environments were clear and well detailed.
Character development just keeps on going strong book after book. Ash and Levi finally figure things out between them (can I get an amen). But to be honest, all important characters continue to grow and shed more light onto their persona. They all feel very real and alive, with each their own flaws and insecurities. Really well written.
Pacing and flow were amazing. Such a great balance between all the action and the (heartstopping) conversations. This book really is quite a ride, though never going over the top into being rushed. No, the author let it play out in its own natural rhythm (and yes, reading this sentence is weird for me too, but that's the best I can do for you so you're welcome).
The book itself was well written and yes, there is sex described (if that is important to you).
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book and I really do need book 4 pronto (pretty pretty please!). Though beware, the ending is a bit of a cliffhanger... you are warned!
I didn't think this series could trump Nava, but damn... I think this book did it!
I mean, it had it all, a lot of action, snarky humor, some romance (but not too much... even though it's Levi, don't say you would mind hmm!?), oh oh oh.. and a puppy (lol) :D
Worldbuilding was, as always, great! We went all over the place and all scenes and environments were clear and well detailed.
Character development just keeps on going strong book after book. Ash and Levi finally figure things out between them (can I get an amen). But to be honest, all important characters continue to grow and shed more light onto their persona. They all feel very real and alive, with each their own flaws and insecurities. Really well written.
Pacing and flow were amazing. Such a great balance between all the action and the (heartstopping) conversations. This book really is quite a ride, though never going over the top into being rushed. No, the author let it play out in its own natural rhythm (and yes, reading this sentence is weird for me too, but that's the best I can do for you so you're welcome).
The book itself was well written and yes, there is sex described (if that is important to you).
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book and I really do need book 4 pronto (pretty pretty please!). Though beware, the ending is a bit of a cliffhanger... you are warned!
I didn't think this series could trump Nava, but damn... I think this book did it!
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