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Miss Misery #2
Dirty Little Misery
Lust can be downright lethal.
Thanks to her freakish magic, Jessica Moore was denied her dream to join the Gryphons. But after the magical law-enforcement agency tried to arrest her for murders she didn’t commit, Jess is no longer interested.
Too bad—they are.
Now that they know what she can do, they want Jess on their side. If she doesn’t agree to help them solve a new case, they’ll charge her with every magical crime she’s ever committed.
Nine people are dead. The cause? Exhaustion. The activity? Never-ending sex.
Someone sold them tainted F, an illegal aphrodisiac made by satyrs. No surprise, Jess’s satyr allies aren’t pleased with her investigation. Worse, it strains her tenuous relationship with Lucen, the one satyr she counts as a friend.
As Jess delves into the shady satyr business world, she unravels a scheme more sinister than dirty drugs—and her bond with Lucen unravels right along with it. Only the truth will save them. But not before it turns Jess into an ambitious killer’s next target.
Thanks to her freakish magic, Jessica Moore was denied her dream to join the Gryphons. But after the magical law-enforcement agency tried to arrest her for murders she didn’t commit, Jess is no longer interested.
Too bad—they are.
Now that they know what she can do, they want Jess on their side. If she doesn’t agree to help them solve a new case, they’ll charge her with every magical crime she’s ever committed.
Nine people are dead. The cause? Exhaustion. The activity? Never-ending sex.
Someone sold them tainted F, an illegal aphrodisiac made by satyrs. No surprise, Jess’s satyr allies aren’t pleased with her investigation. Worse, it strains her tenuous relationship with Lucen, the one satyr she counts as a friend.
As Jess delves into the shady satyr business world, she unravels a scheme more sinister than dirty drugs—and her bond with Lucen unravels right along with it. Only the truth will save them. But not before it turns Jess into an ambitious killer’s next target.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 12, 2014
11 people are currently reading
378 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 13, 2017
Jessicas not as stupid this time, but she’s meaner. These people are your friends! They helped you! Could you get off your moral high horse and be nice for a change Jess?
Also the author decided to add in sex, which got a bit repetitive after a while. (Also the case she was investigating was sexual in nature.) At least the romance didn’t take over the plot.
The mystery was upped a notch. I didn’t know who’d done it until they told me!
Also the author decided to add in sex, which got a bit repetitive after a while. (Also the case she was investigating was sexual in nature.) At least the romance didn’t take over the plot.
The mystery was upped a notch. I didn’t know who’d done it until they told me!
January 29, 2015
http://badbirdreads.com/review-dirty-...
3.5 stars
At A Glance
Bored in the beginning, exciting at the end.
The Good
I really enjoyed Wicked Misery, the first book to this story, so I jumped at the chance to try out the second. Though it wasn’t was exciting, the overall story arc for the series is getting good.
Jessica is being forced to help the Gryphons, something she waned to do all her life but not anymore. The Gryphons are not as great as she once thought, but she helps them to stay out of jail. Her first case has people having sex until they drop dead because of a magical drug they are on. It’s obvious the murders can be traced back to the satyrs, which puts a strain on Lucen (a satyr) and Jess’s relationship.
Jess really was put between a rock and a hard place. Either way, she was disappointing someone, betraying someone. But I like how Jess tried to go with what was morally right. She may have freakish satyr abilities, but her thinking is all human. As Jess works on catching the murder, she also learns a lot more about why she is the way she is. It’s a doozy, people. You can’t help but feel bad for her, but she has Lucen’s arms to fall back in. *sigh* Lucen. Yummy.
Jess and Lucen’s relationship is super rocky. Him having to sleep with his addicts to survive irks Jess to no end. It feels like a betrayal, and I have to agree. But this preternatural world changes the dynamics of a lot of things, and not all relationships can be black and white.
I love how the story ended. It was full of action and intensity. And Jess finally makes a great decision about her future. A lot is going to change, and I hope for the better.
The Bad
I enjoyed Wicked Misery more. It had so much more intensity and grit. Dirty Little Misery was damn right gentle compared to the first book.
The first 70% was just average. Nothing too exciting happened and I put the book down a lot. It has taken me 3 weeks to finish this book.
The Snuggly
Jessica and Lucen are having some problems but I still love them together. We get a few sex scenes, nothing over the top but we get some yummy details. I’d say this is for a new adult audience and up.
Final Thoughts
The last quarter of the book was so good, it bumped up the rating for sure. I still love this series, I just hope the next book is more exciting. Recommended.
Excerpt
Scowling, I flung her hiring agreement farther away. “I concede the point, but you’re not exactly doing a good job of convincing me to come work for you.”
“That’s unfortunate, because my good will and willingness to give you a second chance are all that stand between you and a prison cell. Endangering humans is only the beginning of what I could charge you with if I chose.”
My heartbeat stuttered.
Was it? I always assumed I was keeping a toe on the line that separated the questionably ethical from the flat-out illegal. As a result, I’d gone in to this appointment figuring there were a dozen minor laws I could be accused of breaking, but any decent lawyer could get me a livable deal. Probably the sort that involved mandatory community service.
But endangering humans? That was a felony, and way more than a couple toes over the line. More like an entire foot.
Damn. Though I hated being a gracious loser, and hated even more that she’d gotten the upper hand on me so easily, Olivia Lee was right about two things. I wasn’t stupid. And I didn’t want to go to jail.
“Well, then, you should have said so,” I said, adopting my sweetest voice as I picked up the agreement. “That’s so much more persuasive.”
In the future, I was going to have to be way more careful about what I wished for.
3.5 stars
At A Glance
Bored in the beginning, exciting at the end.
The Good
I really enjoyed Wicked Misery, the first book to this story, so I jumped at the chance to try out the second. Though it wasn’t was exciting, the overall story arc for the series is getting good.
Jessica is being forced to help the Gryphons, something she waned to do all her life but not anymore. The Gryphons are not as great as she once thought, but she helps them to stay out of jail. Her first case has people having sex until they drop dead because of a magical drug they are on. It’s obvious the murders can be traced back to the satyrs, which puts a strain on Lucen (a satyr) and Jess’s relationship.
Jess really was put between a rock and a hard place. Either way, she was disappointing someone, betraying someone. But I like how Jess tried to go with what was morally right. She may have freakish satyr abilities, but her thinking is all human. As Jess works on catching the murder, she also learns a lot more about why she is the way she is. It’s a doozy, people. You can’t help but feel bad for her, but she has Lucen’s arms to fall back in. *sigh* Lucen. Yummy.
Jess and Lucen’s relationship is super rocky. Him having to sleep with his addicts to survive irks Jess to no end. It feels like a betrayal, and I have to agree. But this preternatural world changes the dynamics of a lot of things, and not all relationships can be black and white.
I love how the story ended. It was full of action and intensity. And Jess finally makes a great decision about her future. A lot is going to change, and I hope for the better.
The Bad
I enjoyed Wicked Misery more. It had so much more intensity and grit. Dirty Little Misery was damn right gentle compared to the first book.
The first 70% was just average. Nothing too exciting happened and I put the book down a lot. It has taken me 3 weeks to finish this book.
The Snuggly
Jessica and Lucen are having some problems but I still love them together. We get a few sex scenes, nothing over the top but we get some yummy details. I’d say this is for a new adult audience and up.
Final Thoughts
The last quarter of the book was so good, it bumped up the rating for sure. I still love this series, I just hope the next book is more exciting. Recommended.
Excerpt
Scowling, I flung her hiring agreement farther away. “I concede the point, but you’re not exactly doing a good job of convincing me to come work for you.”
“That’s unfortunate, because my good will and willingness to give you a second chance are all that stand between you and a prison cell. Endangering humans is only the beginning of what I could charge you with if I chose.”
My heartbeat stuttered.
Was it? I always assumed I was keeping a toe on the line that separated the questionably ethical from the flat-out illegal. As a result, I’d gone in to this appointment figuring there were a dozen minor laws I could be accused of breaking, but any decent lawyer could get me a livable deal. Probably the sort that involved mandatory community service.
But endangering humans? That was a felony, and way more than a couple toes over the line. More like an entire foot.
Damn. Though I hated being a gracious loser, and hated even more that she’d gotten the upper hand on me so easily, Olivia Lee was right about two things. I wasn’t stupid. And I didn’t want to go to jail.
“Well, then, you should have said so,” I said, adopting my sweetest voice as I picked up the agreement. “That’s so much more persuasive.”
In the future, I was going to have to be way more careful about what I wished for.
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September 25, 2014Happy book birthday to my book! Hope everyone enjoys it!
September 4, 2022
Wow!
I couldn't remember exactly what I'd written in the review of the first Miss Misery series book, save that I'd had some qualms and still very much wanted book 2. So when I realised I'd missed the launch I 'added to cart' quickly, and here we are.
A little peek just showed me I had issues with Jessica's self- hatred and the fact Lucen didn't exactly evoke “great love- interest”. Now that I've read Miss Misery II, Dirty Little Misery (love that perfect title btw), I can tell you; any and all complaints... gone!
Tracey Martin has managed to write a follow up where every bit of storyline, including the continuous plot for the entire series (what I tend to call the “red line”), is interesting, engaging, exciting, and more of those adjectives. It was a fast- paged, great UF that made me want to keep turning pages. And turning, and turning...
Knowing I have the luck of an ARC for Book 3 – review coming up soon - makes me giddy, because now I can keep doing so.
When we ended the first book in the series Jess' name was cleared of all the murders Victor Aubrey and his Fury masters tried to frame her for, war was averted, she & Lucen had "hooked up” and with Aubrey in prison and the Furies under investigation it initially seems all's well in Jessica Moore- land.
Nothing could be more beside the truth. With her Soulswapper business revealed the Gryphons blackmail Jess into working for them as the lowest consultant – no weapons, no clearance and policing the preds. Now that she has finally given in to the attraction between her and Lucen and the extent of her abilities and hybrid status is a secret, working for the formerly adored Gryphons is the last thing she wants, expecting huge trouble coming her way.
And trouble is exactly what she gets in the form of a freaky multiple homicide pointing towards the Satyrs and a Gryphon from World Headquarters who takes a rather unusual interest in Jess and her abilities.
Jess on the warpath on finding out when and what exactly happened to her to become a “misery- junk” is a nicely added bonus to all the s... stuff hitting the fan. Not to mention the fact that Olaf's prophecy comes popping back up.
Everything that was good about the first book was in here and more. While there wasn't a big epic battle this time around Dirty Little Misery hints enough those will be coming in future titles. But Miss Misery 2 doesn't need battles and war to remain interesting. It's more a thriller kind of Urban Fantasy where the intrigue and surprises keep you reading. The more we read about the world and people (“ “) of this series, the more invested I become as well.
Dirty Little Misery gives us a caring Lucen, one who obviously crosses a pred-line by being with Jess. It also shows us that their relationship has too many secrets and hurdles at the moment to be the true haven both of them long for. I particularly get Jessica's 'hangups' – as her lover calls them - about Lucen's addicts. But it is the tension about their differences, their secrets and their emotions that makes this romance more than a regular fantasy genre love.
The only thing I'm dearly and desperately wishing for, is that we aren't going the Lauren K. Hamilton route to “fix” the addict-or-Lucen-dies conundrum. Not only has the reverse harem thing been done to exhaustion, but even my (limited, because I usually stop reading and now shun said genre) experience taught me that the muktiple sex partners and sex whenever/ with whomever will take over the storyline – and worse. Dear author: please don't! Find a different solution, one that is worthy of your writing talents.
Anyway, back to the story at hand...Interestingly enough book 2 shows us also exactly why we know so little about Lucen - and that Jessica is bothered by it as well. I can't wait to discover where this relationship is going and what we'll find out about Lucen's past.
As a result of the murdercase, Jess' love life and her search for answers we also get a tad more world-building. At least when it comes to the Gryphons and Satyrs. I long for more, but have to give Martin credit where credit is due : what I missed in the last book is given to me now & people and actions from that first story come back with good reason. I'm slowly beginning to think the why of keeping both Jessica Moore and readers in the dark is to eventually have a better reading experience.
Dirty Little Misery shows a Jessica who is still struggling, but in a way I totally comprehend. And if you've been eager to find out what happened to her and why...you're in for a surprise. You'll find out and the ramifications of that discovery -both in Jess' response, the reasons for the genetic tinkering and the reactions of others - will be far reaching. The first steps, I am sure, will be part or even the main focus of book 3, called Misery Loves Company (Available end of August).
Once I finish this review said book will be the first thing in my hands. If you knew how book numero 2 ended you would understand.
Rating: 5 stars!
I can see myself rereading this series at some point, unless Tracey Martin won't continue in the same vain. For now I've enjoyed myself tremendously with this page-turner and want more of the original world, its fascinating magic, dito inhabitants, and a strong main character that now definitely has me rooting for her and her love life.
I couldn't remember exactly what I'd written in the review of the first Miss Misery series book, save that I'd had some qualms and still very much wanted book 2. So when I realised I'd missed the launch I 'added to cart' quickly, and here we are.
A little peek just showed me I had issues with Jessica's self- hatred and the fact Lucen didn't exactly evoke “great love- interest”. Now that I've read Miss Misery II, Dirty Little Misery (love that perfect title btw), I can tell you; any and all complaints... gone!
Tracey Martin has managed to write a follow up where every bit of storyline, including the continuous plot for the entire series (what I tend to call the “red line”), is interesting, engaging, exciting, and more of those adjectives. It was a fast- paged, great UF that made me want to keep turning pages. And turning, and turning...
Knowing I have the luck of an ARC for Book 3 – review coming up soon - makes me giddy, because now I can keep doing so.
When we ended the first book in the series Jess' name was cleared of all the murders Victor Aubrey and his Fury masters tried to frame her for, war was averted, she & Lucen had "hooked up” and with Aubrey in prison and the Furies under investigation it initially seems all's well in Jessica Moore- land.
Nothing could be more beside the truth. With her Soulswapper business revealed the Gryphons blackmail Jess into working for them as the lowest consultant – no weapons, no clearance and policing the preds. Now that she has finally given in to the attraction between her and Lucen and the extent of her abilities and hybrid status is a secret, working for the formerly adored Gryphons is the last thing she wants, expecting huge trouble coming her way.
And trouble is exactly what she gets in the form of a freaky multiple homicide pointing towards the Satyrs and a Gryphon from World Headquarters who takes a rather unusual interest in Jess and her abilities.
Jess on the warpath on finding out when and what exactly happened to her to become a “misery- junk” is a nicely added bonus to all the s... stuff hitting the fan. Not to mention the fact that Olaf's prophecy comes popping back up.
Everything that was good about the first book was in here and more. While there wasn't a big epic battle this time around Dirty Little Misery hints enough those will be coming in future titles. But Miss Misery 2 doesn't need battles and war to remain interesting. It's more a thriller kind of Urban Fantasy where the intrigue and surprises keep you reading. The more we read about the world and people (“ “) of this series, the more invested I become as well.
Dirty Little Misery gives us a caring Lucen, one who obviously crosses a pred-line by being with Jess. It also shows us that their relationship has too many secrets and hurdles at the moment to be the true haven both of them long for. I particularly get Jessica's 'hangups' – as her lover calls them - about Lucen's addicts. But it is the tension about their differences, their secrets and their emotions that makes this romance more than a regular fantasy genre love.
The only thing I'm dearly and desperately wishing for, is that we aren't going the Lauren K. Hamilton route to “fix” the addict-or-Lucen-dies conundrum. Not only has the reverse harem thing been done to exhaustion, but even my (limited, because I usually stop reading and now shun said genre) experience taught me that the muktiple sex partners and sex whenever/ with whomever will take over the storyline – and worse. Dear author: please don't! Find a different solution, one that is worthy of your writing talents.
Anyway, back to the story at hand...Interestingly enough book 2 shows us also exactly why we know so little about Lucen - and that Jessica is bothered by it as well. I can't wait to discover where this relationship is going and what we'll find out about Lucen's past.
As a result of the murdercase, Jess' love life and her search for answers we also get a tad more world-building. At least when it comes to the Gryphons and Satyrs. I long for more, but have to give Martin credit where credit is due : what I missed in the last book is given to me now & people and actions from that first story come back with good reason. I'm slowly beginning to think the why of keeping both Jessica Moore and readers in the dark is to eventually have a better reading experience.
Dirty Little Misery shows a Jessica who is still struggling, but in a way I totally comprehend. And if you've been eager to find out what happened to her and why...you're in for a surprise. You'll find out and the ramifications of that discovery -both in Jess' response, the reasons for the genetic tinkering and the reactions of others - will be far reaching. The first steps, I am sure, will be part or even the main focus of book 3, called Misery Loves Company (Available end of August).
Once I finish this review said book will be the first thing in my hands. If you knew how book numero 2 ended you would understand.
Rating: 5 stars!
I can see myself rereading this series at some point, unless Tracey Martin won't continue in the same vain. For now I've enjoyed myself tremendously with this page-turner and want more of the original world, its fascinating magic, dito inhabitants, and a strong main character that now definitely has me rooting for her and her love life.
June 15, 2022
I don’t mind sex in my books, but some people might want to be made aware of this before going into it. Then again, they storyline is about people who died from exhaustion from sex… that pretty much guarantee’s that there will be a bit more sex than the first book.
The story is getting better in my opinion, and I am looking forward to seeing where this story goes from here. It’s written well, and the world that has been created is a lot of fun for me.
I think this is a great next book, and I’ll be keeping my eye out for the next one.
5 ⭐️s= Perfect story, exciting, engrossing, well developed complex characters, solid plot with few to no holes, descriptive environments and place settings, great mystery elements, realistic dialogue, believable reactions and behaviors, loved this story so much I’d buy it.
4 ⭐️s= Great story, highly entertaining and enjoyable, exciting storyline, well developed characters and settings, a few discrepancies but nothing that can’t be overlooked. Believable actions and reactions, realistic dialogue, a book I would consider buying.
3 ⭐️s= Good but not great story, noticeable discrepancies, grammatical and or spelling errors, undeveloped characters or unbelievable behaviors but still readable. Nothing majorly wrong with the story, just not interesting enough for me to continue. Would not buy the book.
2 ⭐️s= Not offended by the story, but not interested enough to finish. Unbelievable characters, poor writing, many mistakes, big holes or discrepancies, many spelling or grammatical errors, characters not believable, unlikeable or TSTL.
1 ⭐️= Offensive, extremely poor writing, horrible characters, victimization, gaslighting, blatant abuse, unnecessary violence, child endangerment, or any other highly objectionable behaviors by Main characters. Would never buy this book, and do not recommend it to anyone.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story is getting better in my opinion, and I am looking forward to seeing where this story goes from here. It’s written well, and the world that has been created is a lot of fun for me.
I think this is a great next book, and I’ll be keeping my eye out for the next one.
5 ⭐️s= Perfect story, exciting, engrossing, well developed complex characters, solid plot with few to no holes, descriptive environments and place settings, great mystery elements, realistic dialogue, believable reactions and behaviors, loved this story so much I’d buy it.
4 ⭐️s= Great story, highly entertaining and enjoyable, exciting storyline, well developed characters and settings, a few discrepancies but nothing that can’t be overlooked. Believable actions and reactions, realistic dialogue, a book I would consider buying.
3 ⭐️s= Good but not great story, noticeable discrepancies, grammatical and or spelling errors, undeveloped characters or unbelievable behaviors but still readable. Nothing majorly wrong with the story, just not interesting enough for me to continue. Would not buy the book.
2 ⭐️s= Not offended by the story, but not interested enough to finish. Unbelievable characters, poor writing, many mistakes, big holes or discrepancies, many spelling or grammatical errors, characters not believable, unlikeable or TSTL.
1 ⭐️= Offensive, extremely poor writing, horrible characters, victimization, gaslighting, blatant abuse, unnecessary violence, child endangerment, or any other highly objectionable behaviors by Main characters. Would never buy this book, and do not recommend it to anyone.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2022
What a fantastic follow-up to book 1! We really see Jess start to come into her own even more, especially with the events at the end!
We join Jess as she is still dealing with the aftermath of being framed for murder. She was cleared, but there is still the same tension, especially around he slightly traumatized roommates. What's going well? Her relations with Lucen, now that she's fallen into that. Of course, there's a little bit of self sabotage going on there as she tries to hide secrets from just about everyone around her that she calls a friend. Her big secret also somehow manages to get even bigger in this book.
The big story here is Jess getting sucked into the Gryphon organization as a "consultant" to help solve some murders that are immediately assumed to be linked with the pred species she most closely tied herself to. Almost nobody has a true intention expressed here and it's exhausting for an outsider to try to untangle everything. By the end, though, Jess really has a better handle on things, though they certainly go to hell before then. I tore through this book in almost a single sitting because I couldn't stop. I can't wait to start the next one!
We join Jess as she is still dealing with the aftermath of being framed for murder. She was cleared, but there is still the same tension, especially around he slightly traumatized roommates. What's going well? Her relations with Lucen, now that she's fallen into that. Of course, there's a little bit of self sabotage going on there as she tries to hide secrets from just about everyone around her that she calls a friend. Her big secret also somehow manages to get even bigger in this book.
The big story here is Jess getting sucked into the Gryphon organization as a "consultant" to help solve some murders that are immediately assumed to be linked with the pred species she most closely tied herself to. Almost nobody has a true intention expressed here and it's exhausting for an outsider to try to untangle everything. By the end, though, Jess really has a better handle on things, though they certainly go to hell before then. I tore through this book in almost a single sitting because I couldn't stop. I can't wait to start the next one!
June 16, 2022
This is the second book in the Author's Miss Misery series and whilst it can be read as a standalone I think reading book 1 would of benefit to the reader
Jess has always wanted to join the Gryphons but had been rejected ............ now , after after being cleared of murder , she has been blackmailed into being a ''consultant'' for them .
Tasked with solving murders linked to the Satyrs and their drug production she finds herself at odds not just with Lucen and but also with herself and the secrets from her past .
This story had an interesting plot with different characters from the norm in a fantasy book ( no vampire , weres etc ) but I did find Jess's character a little lacking - she often leapt into events without thinking and was rude to friends who had helped in the past BUT overall it was a book I enjoyed and would recommend
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Jess has always wanted to join the Gryphons but had been rejected ............ now , after after being cleared of murder , she has been blackmailed into being a ''consultant'' for them .
Tasked with solving murders linked to the Satyrs and their drug production she finds herself at odds not just with Lucen and but also with herself and the secrets from her past .
This story had an interesting plot with different characters from the norm in a fantasy book ( no vampire , weres etc ) but I did find Jess's character a little lacking - she often leapt into events without thinking and was rude to friends who had helped in the past BUT overall it was a book I enjoyed and would recommend
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
June 8, 2022
I really love the way this author weaves a story together. There are so many things going on, but she keeps each thing fresh in your mind so you don't forget about it, as the story moves. It's really incredible to me how well she does this.
This book had a lot more sex in it than the first, if that's not your thing it was easy to skim past and it wouldn't hurt the rest of the story, imo.
I have enjoyed reading this series and was pleasantly surprised with the well developed characters, plot and unique world. The MC felt like she made realistic decisions for her instead of ones to drive the story along. This book was so inventive and the story and world so fleshed out. I can't wait to read more from this author.
This book had a lot more sex in it than the first, if that's not your thing it was easy to skim past and it wouldn't hurt the rest of the story, imo.
I have enjoyed reading this series and was pleasantly surprised with the well developed characters, plot and unique world. The MC felt like she made realistic decisions for her instead of ones to drive the story along. This book was so inventive and the story and world so fleshed out. I can't wait to read more from this author.
June 8, 2022
I know I read this series when it was first published years ago, but to be honest, I can’t remember them. I’m kinda glad, because now I can read and enjoy them again as if for the first time. Jess is dealing with the fallout of the first book including being blackmailed by the Gryphons to work for them. But her first case causes lots of tension between her and Lucen. I really enjoyed this book, and I just love Jess. She is trying to find herself and the secrets from her past, and in this latest, we do find out some information. Add in some great writing, interesting side characters, and an intriguing plot, you are in for a fun few hours of reading time. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
August 7, 2022
Dirty Little Misery, the second book in the Miss Misery series by Tracey Martin picks up from the first book where Jessica is dealing with being framed for murder. Despite being cleared, Jess is jaded with the same council she yearned to join. Jess can't help but getting pulled into the Gryphon organisation to solve murders that are linked to certain pred. I got frustrated by Jess at times, jumping into situations without thinking and being snarky to those she loves. But I can understand her reluctance to connect given her powers.
I enjoyed this second book, the pacing was spot on, added mystery balanced well with the action scenes and I thought the author did a great job of continuing to build the characters.
I enjoyed this second book, the pacing was spot on, added mystery balanced well with the action scenes and I thought the author did a great job of continuing to build the characters.
June 9, 2022
Forced to Comply . . .
Jess is now being pressured by the Gryphons to work for them after they saw what she was capable of doing with her magic. But after the way she was treated, she doesn’t want to work for them anymore – so they threaten her.
In their current case, 9 people have died. They had purchased tainted F, a drug made by satyrs that brings on never-ending sex to the point of death. But her biggest problem is that this case is making a great deal tension with Lucen, her satyr friend. Something worse is actually going on. Will she completely lose her friendship with Lucen? Will she end up in danger herself?
Jess is now being pressured by the Gryphons to work for them after they saw what she was capable of doing with her magic. But after the way she was treated, she doesn’t want to work for them anymore – so they threaten her.
In their current case, 9 people have died. They had purchased tainted F, a drug made by satyrs that brings on never-ending sex to the point of death. But her biggest problem is that this case is making a great deal tension with Lucen, her satyr friend. Something worse is actually going on. Will she completely lose her friendship with Lucen? Will she end up in danger herself?
June 14, 2022
I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
In this second book of the series, Jess has been blackmailed into working for the Gryphons- a job she once dreamed for as a child. There’s been another high profile murder to solve, this time implicating the Satyrs and their drug production. Jess has to solve the mass murder while also investigating the files from the last book, and try to prove that the Satyrs she cares for are innocent.
This was a lovely, twisty story that moves the world and the characters forward and let’s a little more information about her new status since she turned 18. Can’t wait to read more, and see what else happens!
In this second book of the series, Jess has been blackmailed into working for the Gryphons- a job she once dreamed for as a child. There’s been another high profile murder to solve, this time implicating the Satyrs and their drug production. Jess has to solve the mass murder while also investigating the files from the last book, and try to prove that the Satyrs she cares for are innocent.
This was a lovely, twisty story that moves the world and the characters forward and let’s a little more information about her new status since she turned 18. Can’t wait to read more, and see what else happens!
July 29, 2023
She had been charged with murders she never committed so she is not interested in joining them like she had been but they want her on their side. She is given a choice join the investigation or be charged with all her other magical crimes. What will she do? How will she get on? Follow her to see what will happen next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 14, 2014
After her rather public exposure last book, Jessica receives an offer from the Gryphons – they want her to work with them as a consultant, using her unique gifts to catch criminals. For which she will be paid a generous salary – and not go to prison. It’s less an offer and more a demand with menaces.
And part of her “unique gifts” involve exploiting her friendship and connections with the satyrs – who are currently prime suspects in a series of grizzly, sex related murders.
The satyrs are not happy about this, nor overly happy with Jessica. And Jessica may finally be getting her dream job – but can she live with the strings attached? And is that her dream any more, especially as she learns more and more about what she is and the source of those oh-so-mysterious powers.
When reviewing a series that continues good elements it can be hard to write reviews of second and later books. I mean, how often can you write about the same world that continues to be compelling, unique and interesting? Ultimately it’s repetitive – but if the goodness keeps on going from book to book to book, then shouldn’t it continue to be mentioned? If you take the “good” as a given and only mention any new badness then your review looks negative undeservedly
This is my long winded way of trying to excuse being repetitive – because what I have to say about world building and story for this book are the same as for the first book. They’re unique, deep and fascinating. The pacing is excellent, the mystery very well drawn out and balanced; action scenes blend well with character building and exploration. Mental monologues provide enough information to both feel the world and the characters’ place within it without swamping out the actual activity. The plot is twisty without being twisted and complex without being convoluted
All of this is wonderfully shot through with some really good complexity that adds so much depth to the world building. Yes there are sexy satyrs – but the consequences and realities of sexy satyrs are considered. We’re not supposed to lust over them, we’re supposed to see their moral ambiguity in their powers, the exploitation and the fearsome control they have over people
We see a police force that is intrusive and gets in the way and we’re not just thinking of ways to cover it up – but asking questions about what’s being covered up, how to negotiate around the Gryphons and not just falling into the trap of demonising them
The whole thing has layers and complexities all with an exciting story with lots of twists back and forth to sell the whole thing. There’s a lot of good here
Jessica is a very real character to me and one that is surprisingly lacking in tropes – she has good friends (and female friends at that!), a supportive family (even if she isn’t as close as she’d like). She has a lot of moral conflicts, a lot of growth and some very reasonable flaws – even flaws that make me kind of not like her at times, but are very real to her character: Like the Satyrs
Jessica’s treatment of the satyrs annoyed me. In the last book, they went to bat for her. They risked a lot for her. They protected her, they housed her, they risked a seriously conflict with the other Preds for her. They owed her nothing but still gave and risked so much for her… and she doesn’t really acknowledge it in this book. She still regards them with hostility and suspicion. She doesn’t seem to realise any kind of debt she owes them nor even seriously consider that her being part of the Gryphons can be seen as a betrayal. Yes she had no choice – but she is still using her connection with the satyrs to gain information about them without ever really acknowledging what they’ve done for ever or even trying to be apologetic about it
I don’t know if it’s a terrible part of the character though. Jessica, like most humans in this world, has a strong fear and distrust of the Preds. And not entirely unreasonably, since they feed on humans and control them through their sin addictions. This is something she does have to work through with the book and something she does come to realise and adapt as the book progresses. It annoys me, but I think it’s not a bad part of the character – it’s an annoying part of a developed character; after all, not every character is going to be entirely likeable or made up of likeable traits. Or they shouldn’t be anyway. Jessica has unfortunate preconceptions about Preds, they’re not always fair and sometimes cause her to be a bit of an ungrateful arsehole sorely in need to a stern lecture – such is her character
On the other side of the scale, she has a wonderfully epic, ragey moment confronting someone who is behind her unusual nature. It’s epic, I cheered and it’s probably deeply, deeply unwise. A sensible character probably wouldn’t have done it – but I would have and I was behind her all the way.
Read More
And part of her “unique gifts” involve exploiting her friendship and connections with the satyrs – who are currently prime suspects in a series of grizzly, sex related murders.
The satyrs are not happy about this, nor overly happy with Jessica. And Jessica may finally be getting her dream job – but can she live with the strings attached? And is that her dream any more, especially as she learns more and more about what she is and the source of those oh-so-mysterious powers.
When reviewing a series that continues good elements it can be hard to write reviews of second and later books. I mean, how often can you write about the same world that continues to be compelling, unique and interesting? Ultimately it’s repetitive – but if the goodness keeps on going from book to book to book, then shouldn’t it continue to be mentioned? If you take the “good” as a given and only mention any new badness then your review looks negative undeservedly
This is my long winded way of trying to excuse being repetitive – because what I have to say about world building and story for this book are the same as for the first book. They’re unique, deep and fascinating. The pacing is excellent, the mystery very well drawn out and balanced; action scenes blend well with character building and exploration. Mental monologues provide enough information to both feel the world and the characters’ place within it without swamping out the actual activity. The plot is twisty without being twisted and complex without being convoluted
All of this is wonderfully shot through with some really good complexity that adds so much depth to the world building. Yes there are sexy satyrs – but the consequences and realities of sexy satyrs are considered. We’re not supposed to lust over them, we’re supposed to see their moral ambiguity in their powers, the exploitation and the fearsome control they have over people
We see a police force that is intrusive and gets in the way and we’re not just thinking of ways to cover it up – but asking questions about what’s being covered up, how to negotiate around the Gryphons and not just falling into the trap of demonising them
The whole thing has layers and complexities all with an exciting story with lots of twists back and forth to sell the whole thing. There’s a lot of good here
Jessica is a very real character to me and one that is surprisingly lacking in tropes – she has good friends (and female friends at that!), a supportive family (even if she isn’t as close as she’d like). She has a lot of moral conflicts, a lot of growth and some very reasonable flaws – even flaws that make me kind of not like her at times, but are very real to her character: Like the Satyrs
Jessica’s treatment of the satyrs annoyed me. In the last book, they went to bat for her. They risked a lot for her. They protected her, they housed her, they risked a seriously conflict with the other Preds for her. They owed her nothing but still gave and risked so much for her… and she doesn’t really acknowledge it in this book. She still regards them with hostility and suspicion. She doesn’t seem to realise any kind of debt she owes them nor even seriously consider that her being part of the Gryphons can be seen as a betrayal. Yes she had no choice – but she is still using her connection with the satyrs to gain information about them without ever really acknowledging what they’ve done for ever or even trying to be apologetic about it
I don’t know if it’s a terrible part of the character though. Jessica, like most humans in this world, has a strong fear and distrust of the Preds. And not entirely unreasonably, since they feed on humans and control them through their sin addictions. This is something she does have to work through with the book and something she does come to realise and adapt as the book progresses. It annoys me, but I think it’s not a bad part of the character – it’s an annoying part of a developed character; after all, not every character is going to be entirely likeable or made up of likeable traits. Or they shouldn’t be anyway. Jessica has unfortunate preconceptions about Preds, they’re not always fair and sometimes cause her to be a bit of an ungrateful arsehole sorely in need to a stern lecture – such is her character
On the other side of the scale, she has a wonderfully epic, ragey moment confronting someone who is behind her unusual nature. It’s epic, I cheered and it’s probably deeply, deeply unwise. A sensible character probably wouldn’t have done it – but I would have and I was behind her all the way.
Read More
August 22, 2014
5*s
Review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Dirty Little Misery is the second book in the Miss Misery series and just as awesome as book one.
We pick things up pretty much straight away following book one and Jess is dealing with the aftermath of her clash with Victor and the Sylphs. The Gryphons are all in Jess’s business as they try to get answers about why she was at the centre of the war, what her powers are, what she can do and also about her side business… making her very uncomfortable but they have a proposition for her, one that she won’t be able to turn down because it’s either work for them or go to jail. In choosing to toe the line and not go to jail, Jess is brought into an investigation involving 9 victims, an orgy and an aphrodisiac drug known as F – and also known to made by Satyrs – which puts Jess in a quandary straight away, does she help the Gryphons find a ‘supposed’ Satyr culprit when they are the very Preds that helped her when the Gryphons were convinced she was a murderer? A double edged sword for Jess, especially when she herself is involved with a Satyr. She knows nothing is as it appears to be but when all leads point to Satyr involvement, her relationship, her friendships and her loyalties are tested to the max, leaving Jess feeling even more alone but yet again, when Jess gets close to the culprit, she ends up becoming the next target.
Dirty Little Misery was an awesome book, UF at its best and again, reminds me why this is my favourite genre. I really enjoy the world the author has created and all of the species it brings into the story, by setting the world up the way it has been, you have set boundaries and areas for different Preds & humans so you can tell that conflict & prejudice will be rife- and it is- which gives us a strong feeling of what type of issues that will be dealt with. Jess is a great character that you can easily connect to, I like her use of humour and how she handles herself but she seemed a bit unsure of herself in this. The can of worms was opened about whom she is and what her magic could possibly be, it was just enough to hook her into a need to find out more but who does she turn to when the only other person like her is the enemy? Also her relationship with Lucen is on eggshells, what with her having to investigate the Satyrs and then there’s Lucen’s needs & addicts that begin to bother her more and make her question why she is there. I’m still not sure about this element of the relationship, the fact that Lucen needs to have sex with other people doesn’t sit well with me and I can’t see it boding good things for their long term relationship which makes me not want to be invested in it – which is a shame because I do like them together – and is my only gripe about this book although it is personal preference.
The storyline was awesome, filled with lust, death, drugs, danger, betrayal, misdirection, secrets and revelations. It was a natural progression that Jess become involved with the Gryphons on a professional basis and I always like a good investigation and whodunit, so with her being a part of the policing of the Preds, it opens up a lot of avenues and trouble that Jess can get into. The investigation she is brought into might sound hilarious in the synopsis but it soon becomes something else as the ramifications from what can happen if it’s used without consent are explored as well; think date rape drug times by 100 and it’s made by the lust experts themselves –Satyrs. All of Jess’s relationships are put to the test in this and none more so than her alliance (of sorts) with the Satyrs due to the issues of the investigation. We get to know the Satyrs a lot more in this book and their dynamic and I was grateful for that, one in particular has popped on my radar that I will be keeping an eye on. It’s not all about the Gryphon’s investigation either; because Jess is also investigating herself and you will not believe what she uncovers! Things look set to change for Jess following these revelations but I don’t think she will stop digging either because she also uncovers a secret society & prophecy too making me extremely excited for book 3.
Review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Dirty Little Misery is the second book in the Miss Misery series and just as awesome as book one.
We pick things up pretty much straight away following book one and Jess is dealing with the aftermath of her clash with Victor and the Sylphs. The Gryphons are all in Jess’s business as they try to get answers about why she was at the centre of the war, what her powers are, what she can do and also about her side business… making her very uncomfortable but they have a proposition for her, one that she won’t be able to turn down because it’s either work for them or go to jail. In choosing to toe the line and not go to jail, Jess is brought into an investigation involving 9 victims, an orgy and an aphrodisiac drug known as F – and also known to made by Satyrs – which puts Jess in a quandary straight away, does she help the Gryphons find a ‘supposed’ Satyr culprit when they are the very Preds that helped her when the Gryphons were convinced she was a murderer? A double edged sword for Jess, especially when she herself is involved with a Satyr. She knows nothing is as it appears to be but when all leads point to Satyr involvement, her relationship, her friendships and her loyalties are tested to the max, leaving Jess feeling even more alone but yet again, when Jess gets close to the culprit, she ends up becoming the next target.
Dirty Little Misery was an awesome book, UF at its best and again, reminds me why this is my favourite genre. I really enjoy the world the author has created and all of the species it brings into the story, by setting the world up the way it has been, you have set boundaries and areas for different Preds & humans so you can tell that conflict & prejudice will be rife- and it is- which gives us a strong feeling of what type of issues that will be dealt with. Jess is a great character that you can easily connect to, I like her use of humour and how she handles herself but she seemed a bit unsure of herself in this. The can of worms was opened about whom she is and what her magic could possibly be, it was just enough to hook her into a need to find out more but who does she turn to when the only other person like her is the enemy? Also her relationship with Lucen is on eggshells, what with her having to investigate the Satyrs and then there’s Lucen’s needs & addicts that begin to bother her more and make her question why she is there. I’m still not sure about this element of the relationship, the fact that Lucen needs to have sex with other people doesn’t sit well with me and I can’t see it boding good things for their long term relationship which makes me not want to be invested in it – which is a shame because I do like them together – and is my only gripe about this book although it is personal preference.
The storyline was awesome, filled with lust, death, drugs, danger, betrayal, misdirection, secrets and revelations. It was a natural progression that Jess become involved with the Gryphons on a professional basis and I always like a good investigation and whodunit, so with her being a part of the policing of the Preds, it opens up a lot of avenues and trouble that Jess can get into. The investigation she is brought into might sound hilarious in the synopsis but it soon becomes something else as the ramifications from what can happen if it’s used without consent are explored as well; think date rape drug times by 100 and it’s made by the lust experts themselves –Satyrs. All of Jess’s relationships are put to the test in this and none more so than her alliance (of sorts) with the Satyrs due to the issues of the investigation. We get to know the Satyrs a lot more in this book and their dynamic and I was grateful for that, one in particular has popped on my radar that I will be keeping an eye on. It’s not all about the Gryphon’s investigation either; because Jess is also investigating herself and you will not believe what she uncovers! Things look set to change for Jess following these revelations but I don’t think she will stop digging either because she also uncovers a secret society & prophecy too making me extremely excited for book 3.
August 14, 2014
Dirty Little Misery, Tracey Martin
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews
I’ve had a slew of paranormal romances recently that have been fun, but a bit fantasy lite type reads. Here we’ve got something with a bit more depth, more to get your teeth into, plots that need to be worked out, rather than those which are easy to predict. I’d not read the first book, or the novella but I still found it easy to pick up – I read the samples and some reviews to get a general idea of the story. Its one for my keeper files so at some point I’ll probably buy those.
So, we’ve Jessica, who’s sort of dating a satyr Lucen. She’s in a hard position because now some of her odd powers have been brought to their attention the Gryphons have decided they do want to use her after all...at one time she’d have been delighted, but after having been rejected years ago and left to cope on her own she’s not so ready to jump back in. Especially as they still regard her with suspicion....and being part of them means her relationship with Lucen is going to be under strain. Then of course there’s the fact that those in that world who had helped her when she was suspected of murder are now going to be very mistrustful. She has no choice though – poor Jessica, it’s that or prison...
Lucen is amazing, he’s stuck with her even though the other Satyrs and paranormals weren’t happy. It was a big risk to him but all seemed to turn out ok – ish anyway – til now. I like Lucen, I can see he cares for Jessica, but like her I wonder how much he can feel? How deep do a Satyr’s feelings go? He’s older, how much older she doesn’t know, so he’s experienced so much that she wonders how come he’s chosen her. Seems though that Lucen has been watching her for ten years waiting to make his move, and I feel he won’t drop her lightly now, but then he’s not the Dom, and Dezzie could force him to stop being with Jessica if she felt it was harmful to the Satyrs.Tthen of course there’s the sex, Lucen has addicts he has to have sex with and Jessica finds that hard to take. He tries to explain the straight, physical sex v sex with emotion difference to her, but I’d be jealous too – yet that's what he is, what he has to do, and much like her current position with the Gryphons they have to learn to live with it or separate.
Backing up their fledgling romance is the murders, things seem to be pointing to the Satyrs as culprits, and Jess is right in the middle...the deeper she looks the more the dangers mount up to her, and alongside that there’s the problem of the secret about herself she still hasn’t told Lucen, and the prophecy that seems to point to her being in the middle of huge, earth shattering danger. Oh – and the mystery of what exactly she is with her freakish abilities....
Its a great read, fun and with just the right balance of sex and romance, action and drama.
Stars: Five, a really fun read and one for the keeper files.
ARC supplied via Netgalley and publishers.
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews
I’ve had a slew of paranormal romances recently that have been fun, but a bit fantasy lite type reads. Here we’ve got something with a bit more depth, more to get your teeth into, plots that need to be worked out, rather than those which are easy to predict. I’d not read the first book, or the novella but I still found it easy to pick up – I read the samples and some reviews to get a general idea of the story. Its one for my keeper files so at some point I’ll probably buy those.
So, we’ve Jessica, who’s sort of dating a satyr Lucen. She’s in a hard position because now some of her odd powers have been brought to their attention the Gryphons have decided they do want to use her after all...at one time she’d have been delighted, but after having been rejected years ago and left to cope on her own she’s not so ready to jump back in. Especially as they still regard her with suspicion....and being part of them means her relationship with Lucen is going to be under strain. Then of course there’s the fact that those in that world who had helped her when she was suspected of murder are now going to be very mistrustful. She has no choice though – poor Jessica, it’s that or prison...
Lucen is amazing, he’s stuck with her even though the other Satyrs and paranormals weren’t happy. It was a big risk to him but all seemed to turn out ok – ish anyway – til now. I like Lucen, I can see he cares for Jessica, but like her I wonder how much he can feel? How deep do a Satyr’s feelings go? He’s older, how much older she doesn’t know, so he’s experienced so much that she wonders how come he’s chosen her. Seems though that Lucen has been watching her for ten years waiting to make his move, and I feel he won’t drop her lightly now, but then he’s not the Dom, and Dezzie could force him to stop being with Jessica if she felt it was harmful to the Satyrs.Tthen of course there’s the sex, Lucen has addicts he has to have sex with and Jessica finds that hard to take. He tries to explain the straight, physical sex v sex with emotion difference to her, but I’d be jealous too – yet that's what he is, what he has to do, and much like her current position with the Gryphons they have to learn to live with it or separate.
Backing up their fledgling romance is the murders, things seem to be pointing to the Satyrs as culprits, and Jess is right in the middle...the deeper she looks the more the dangers mount up to her, and alongside that there’s the problem of the secret about herself she still hasn’t told Lucen, and the prophecy that seems to point to her being in the middle of huge, earth shattering danger. Oh – and the mystery of what exactly she is with her freakish abilities....
Its a great read, fun and with just the right balance of sex and romance, action and drama.
Stars: Five, a really fun read and one for the keeper files.
ARC supplied via Netgalley and publishers.
August 13, 2014
'Dirty Little Misery' is the phenomenal second book in the Miss Misery series. The book continues to follow main character Jessica "Jess" Moore as she still tries to figure out her powers (or curse, in her mind) along with figuring out who is killing women in her town. The Gryphons threaten to charge Jess with all types of magical crimes if she doesn't agree to help them find the killer - and fast. After figuring out that the women are being given illegal magical drugs that are tainted - and cause the user to die of exhaustion after having too much sex. Jess knows that the satyrs are probably behind the drug and she begins to investigate the underground business that's happening across the city. Will Jess be able to stop the killer before someone else dies? Who exactly is behind the tainted drugs?
I want to start my review by saying that this series is one of my favorite urban fantasy series ever. I'm a huge fan of the genre, and the author does such an amazing job with all the elements in the books. The world building is incredible. I loved how Jess' world is pretty close to ours except for a few key differences - mainly dealing with magic and magical beings. I absolutely loved learning about Jess' world - the history and stories behind the Gryphons and the other magical creatures was detailed and I really hope we get to delve even further in the next book. Jess continues to be an awesome leading lady for the series. She's tough; both physically and mentally; smart, sarcastic/witty, a great friend, and determined to turn her curse into something positive for mankind. I love her snarky attitude and her little comments made me giggle throughout the book. The other characters were well written as well, with distinct personalities and flaws. All of the characters were realistic and easy to identify with - especially Jess. With the incredible attention to detail and vivid imagery, I was immediately sucked into Jess' world once again - and it felt like I had never left after finishing the first book. The plot has lots going on all the time, but it wasn't confusing or overwhelming for the reader. I loved all the action and suspense throughout the book - especially anything having to do with magic. The writing and plot were fast paced and flowed easily, which made this a quick and really fun read for me. Overall, this is one of the best urban fantasy books (and series) that I've read, and I very highly recommend it to fans of the genre as well as those who enjoy paranormal, fantasy, and action/adventure novels.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I want to start my review by saying that this series is one of my favorite urban fantasy series ever. I'm a huge fan of the genre, and the author does such an amazing job with all the elements in the books. The world building is incredible. I loved how Jess' world is pretty close to ours except for a few key differences - mainly dealing with magic and magical beings. I absolutely loved learning about Jess' world - the history and stories behind the Gryphons and the other magical creatures was detailed and I really hope we get to delve even further in the next book. Jess continues to be an awesome leading lady for the series. She's tough; both physically and mentally; smart, sarcastic/witty, a great friend, and determined to turn her curse into something positive for mankind. I love her snarky attitude and her little comments made me giggle throughout the book. The other characters were well written as well, with distinct personalities and flaws. All of the characters were realistic and easy to identify with - especially Jess. With the incredible attention to detail and vivid imagery, I was immediately sucked into Jess' world once again - and it felt like I had never left after finishing the first book. The plot has lots going on all the time, but it wasn't confusing or overwhelming for the reader. I loved all the action and suspense throughout the book - especially anything having to do with magic. The writing and plot were fast paced and flowed easily, which made this a quick and really fun read for me. Overall, this is one of the best urban fantasy books (and series) that I've read, and I very highly recommend it to fans of the genre as well as those who enjoy paranormal, fantasy, and action/adventure novels.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2014
Blackmailed into working for the Gryphons, Jessica finds herself torn between the humans and the preds. Her first case really tests loyalties because it may involve her lover and as she’s delves into the Satyr’s business she uncovers a scheme more sinister than dirty drugs – one that may tear her and Lucen apart completely in this mesmerizing urban fantasy romance.
This fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps readers on their toes with suspense, excitement and romance. The author brings the story to life with well written scenes and details that capture the imagination and the fascinating world draws the reader deeper into the story ensuring that the reader wants to know more. The characters are strong, compelling and invite the reader to join them and the spine tingling anticipation builds throughout adding excitement to the story.
Jess’s attraction to Lucen burns up the pages with frequent red hot sex scenes, but her secrets and the fact that she now works for the Gryphons cause lots of turmoil for the relationship and as if that’s not enough she’s also finding it hard to resist Devon another Satyr and Andre her human partner. The reader can’t help but get caught up in the all the drama and excitement of Jess’s life as she struggles to keep her life from unraveling and destroying her relationship with Lucen.
The fascinating world and captivating characters really grab the reader’s attention with some refreshingly different elements and characteristics and the story has a deep sensual and magical feel that adds lots of spice to the story and surprising twists that keeps readers on their toes. I was spellbound by the story from the very beginning and I can’t wait to read the next one. Although I must add that while I enjoyed the story, I haven’t read the first book in the series and I think it would have been beneficial to have a better understanding of workings of this world.
4 ½ STARS
This fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps readers on their toes with suspense, excitement and romance. The author brings the story to life with well written scenes and details that capture the imagination and the fascinating world draws the reader deeper into the story ensuring that the reader wants to know more. The characters are strong, compelling and invite the reader to join them and the spine tingling anticipation builds throughout adding excitement to the story.
Jess’s attraction to Lucen burns up the pages with frequent red hot sex scenes, but her secrets and the fact that she now works for the Gryphons cause lots of turmoil for the relationship and as if that’s not enough she’s also finding it hard to resist Devon another Satyr and Andre her human partner. The reader can’t help but get caught up in the all the drama and excitement of Jess’s life as she struggles to keep her life from unraveling and destroying her relationship with Lucen.
The fascinating world and captivating characters really grab the reader’s attention with some refreshingly different elements and characteristics and the story has a deep sensual and magical feel that adds lots of spice to the story and surprising twists that keeps readers on their toes. I was spellbound by the story from the very beginning and I can’t wait to read the next one. Although I must add that while I enjoyed the story, I haven’t read the first book in the series and I think it would have been beneficial to have a better understanding of workings of this world.
4 ½ STARS
October 4, 2014
This review can also be found on my blog.
Dirty Little Misery was an amazing sequel to an amazing first book. I am in love with this series, Martin has created an incredibly interesting world and I cannot wait for more books set in it. One thing that I really loved was that Martin did not forget about the larger plot that we got the start of in Wicked Misery while the individual plot for this one played out. She did a great job of balancing both without one feeling like it was overpowering the other one.
I still really enjoyed Jess and Lucen in this book, their growing relationship was nicely done. Martin did not rush it and it feels like it is moving at a good pace. I had one small frustration with Jess, it did not make me like her less or the book less, it just frustrated me. It is also slightly a spoiler, maybe a big one if you have not figured it out in book one, so you might skip to the next paragraph if you do not want to read it. It frustrated me to no end that it took Jess so long to figure out that the Gryphon’s were behind the experimentation on her when she was a teen. I knew the minute she said she had been sick at one of their camps that they had done something to her. Granted Jess has been dealing with a lot and her focus was on other things. Still love you Jess.
I enjoyed the new characters that were introduced, as well as the other minor characters from the first book. I hope that we continue to see more of them in the upcoming books. Thank you Martin for this amazing, unique, urban fantasy, it is a refreshing read for someone who is in love with this genre.
Dirty Little Misery was an amazing sequel to an amazing first book. I am in love with this series, Martin has created an incredibly interesting world and I cannot wait for more books set in it. One thing that I really loved was that Martin did not forget about the larger plot that we got the start of in Wicked Misery while the individual plot for this one played out. She did a great job of balancing both without one feeling like it was overpowering the other one.
I still really enjoyed Jess and Lucen in this book, their growing relationship was nicely done. Martin did not rush it and it feels like it is moving at a good pace. I had one small frustration with Jess, it did not make me like her less or the book less, it just frustrated me. It is also slightly a spoiler, maybe a big one if you have not figured it out in book one, so you might skip to the next paragraph if you do not want to read it. It frustrated me to no end that it took Jess so long to figure out that the Gryphon’s were behind the experimentation on her when she was a teen. I knew the minute she said she had been sick at one of their camps that they had done something to her. Granted Jess has been dealing with a lot and her focus was on other things. Still love you Jess.
I enjoyed the new characters that were introduced, as well as the other minor characters from the first book. I hope that we continue to see more of them in the upcoming books. Thank you Martin for this amazing, unique, urban fantasy, it is a refreshing read for someone who is in love with this genre.
August 14, 2014
We start off DIRTY LITTLE MISERY with the Gryphons calling Jess in and blackmailing her into working for them. As you can imagine, not everyone in her life is happy to have her on the inside, and it just so happens that not everyone on the inside has Jess's best interest at heart. I thought that Jess handled the situation and being in the middle of two different worlds pretty well. It definitely isn't easy but she pulls through and everyone is better for it by the end of the book.
There are a lot of bombs dropped on Jess throughout the book. She knows a tad bit about herself going into the story but by the end she knows a whole lot more. It really throws her through a loop to learn how she gained her powers and who is behind her having them.
DIRTY LITTLE MISERY brings a little bit of a love triangle. We already know Lucen, but we are now introduced to Jess's new partner. Her relationship with Lucen isn't always easy for her so when her partner shows interest she questions what it would be like to be with him. I won't tell you what happens and who she is with in the end.
I enjoyed WICKED MISERY so I was happy to get a review copy of DIRTY LITTLE MISERY. I had a few tiny issues with some confusing scenes in book 1 and I am happy to say that did not carry over into book 2. The action was intense and the danger and mystery behind Jess's case brought along lots of drama and suspense.
* This book was provided free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
There are a lot of bombs dropped on Jess throughout the book. She knows a tad bit about herself going into the story but by the end she knows a whole lot more. It really throws her through a loop to learn how she gained her powers and who is behind her having them.
DIRTY LITTLE MISERY brings a little bit of a love triangle. We already know Lucen, but we are now introduced to Jess's new partner. Her relationship with Lucen isn't always easy for her so when her partner shows interest she questions what it would be like to be with him. I won't tell you what happens and who she is with in the end.
I enjoyed WICKED MISERY so I was happy to get a review copy of DIRTY LITTLE MISERY. I had a few tiny issues with some confusing scenes in book 1 and I am happy to say that did not carry over into book 2. The action was intense and the danger and mystery behind Jess's case brought along lots of drama and suspense.
* This book was provided free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 21, 2015
Let me start with saying I did it again, I didn't read book one. I think this may have hurt me a little bit. LOL I need to go back and read it because some of that back story is there. And though I know that, I still really liked this one. Jessica is being blackmailed to help the Gryphons. She use to want but not anymore. She had her expectations with them be let down, and so she helps them stay out of jail. Then she's got a case that involves a lot of sex and the Satyrs, which causes a rift between her and her friend Lucen, who's a satyr. And their relationship is complicated- that's an understatement. Lucen can't be monogomous because of what he it. And it's definitely different from what Jess wants. And Jess has a lot of crap being thrown at her. She was disappointing her self, other people. Betrayals left and right here. And in trying to find the murderer, she finds out some things about herself. A little jaw dropping to say the least. And she's stuck between her human self and her supernatural self. There's action, romance, suspense, mystery, a little bit of everything. Plus, on top of the rocky situation with Jess and Lucen, she's got a hot satyrn in Devon and a sexy human partner in Andre. Jess has some decisions to make. I liked the supernatural parts of the world that the author created. Fun characters that are well written. I now need to read book one before I get my hands on book three! LOL 4.5 PAWS!!
April 13, 2023
I am really enjoying this series, the world building continues in this installment and we get more of an understanding of the Satyrs' and especially Lucien. I'm not a fan of multiple partners when one of the parties wants to be monogamous but I like how the author handled the situation. Its obviously going to continue to be an issue for Jess and I wonder how it will work out.
We also get more of the Gryphons in this book and while there is obviously something bigger at play in the background I enjoyed the main 'case' and didn't guess the culprit.
This series is a must read for fans of urban fantasy looking for something fresh. Bonus point this is a re-release so the series is already complete and books 1,4 &5 are available for free for those with kindle unlimited.
I received an arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
We also get more of the Gryphons in this book and while there is obviously something bigger at play in the background I enjoyed the main 'case' and didn't guess the culprit.
This series is a must read for fans of urban fantasy looking for something fresh. Bonus point this is a re-release so the series is already complete and books 1,4 &5 are available for free for those with kindle unlimited.
I received an arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 22, 2022
Another solid book in this series! I read the first one a little while back, but this book does a great job of dropping in reminders of what happened in the last book without too much exposition. I think this is a great world the author has built (satyrs, slyphs, gryphons, furies, magi instead of the typical weres, vampires, fae) and the plot was full of unexpected twists and turns that had me racing through! The characters are well written with the main and side characters fully fleshed out. I can't wait for the next book!
Book from Netgalley
Book from Netgalley
August 21, 2014
I picked this book up immediately following Wicked Misery. While it was a good read with a good storyline, I don't feel it had the same intensity as the first book. Since I normally don't pay over $5 for an eBook, I won't continue with the series (for pricing reasons only), as this wasn't as good as the first.
April 1, 2015
Good read
Good series. Interesting characters and well developed plot. I look for to seeing how the series develops. Looking forward to the next book.
Good series. Interesting characters and well developed plot. I look for to seeing how the series develops. Looking forward to the next book.
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