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Poison Garden #2
Bleeding Hearts
Eli's doing her best to run Nine Lives Investigations, keep the local witch clans happy as the new Mistress of Seers, and navigate her newfound closeness with Dan. Although, she’s not really leading anything, and truth be told she’s fine with the supernatural community looking after itself. What’s not fine is that she and Tessa have been tracking Nathaniel Beauclaire for months, only to hit one dead end after another.
When bleeding hearts start popping up all over town—out of season, mind you—Eli wonders what the universe is trying to tell her. Before she can figure out what the plants mean, someone threatens the clan elders, a group of (lame) ghost hunters begin dogging her every move, and she and Dan are attacked by a demon. Worst of all, each and every clue points toward Eli’s ex, Amir, a power-mad seer she hasn't seen in years and never wants to see again, as the mastermind behind every piece of bad news.
When Amir’s ultimate goal becomes known, Eli hatches a mad plan to stop him for good—then a family secret comes out which could derail everything, including her newfound leadership of the seers. Will she fight for the title she never wanted, or will Amir take everything from her yet again?
Eli never wanted to lead the seers, but she’s sure as hell not going down without a fight.
When bleeding hearts start popping up all over town—out of season, mind you—Eli wonders what the universe is trying to tell her. Before she can figure out what the plants mean, someone threatens the clan elders, a group of (lame) ghost hunters begin dogging her every move, and she and Dan are attacked by a demon. Worst of all, each and every clue points toward Eli’s ex, Amir, a power-mad seer she hasn't seen in years and never wants to see again, as the mastermind behind every piece of bad news.
When Amir’s ultimate goal becomes known, Eli hatches a mad plan to stop him for good—then a family secret comes out which could derail everything, including her newfound leadership of the seers. Will she fight for the title she never wanted, or will Amir take everything from her yet again?
Eli never wanted to lead the seers, but she’s sure as hell not going down without a fight.
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 16, 2022
62 people are currently reading
617 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Allis Provost
54 books672 followersBe sure to follow Jenn on BookBub for the latest on sales and new releases: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/jenni...
Looking for exclusive content, including the prequel to Poison Garden? Follow her on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=143069...
Jennifer Allis Provost is a native New Englander who lives in a sprawling colonial along with her beautiful and precocious twins, a dog, two birds, three cats, and a wonderful husband who never forgets to buy ice cream. As a child, she read anything and everything she could get her hands on, including a set of encyclopedias, but fantasy was always her favorite. She spends her days drinking vast amounts of coffee, arguing with her computer, and avoiding any and all domestic behavior.
Looking for exclusive content, including the prequel to Poison Garden? Follow her on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=143069...
Jennifer Allis Provost is a native New Englander who lives in a sprawling colonial along with her beautiful and precocious twins, a dog, two birds, three cats, and a wonderful husband who never forgets to buy ice cream. As a child, she read anything and everything she could get her hands on, including a set of encyclopedias, but fantasy was always her favorite. She spends her days drinking vast amounts of coffee, arguing with her computer, and avoiding any and all domestic behavior.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
January 3, 2025
Nice follow-up
Bleeding Hearts
Poison Garden Book 2
By Jennifer Allis Provost
This continues where the first book left off. Another main character is added. More demons, ghosts, and paranormal activities abound. Fun story.
Bleeding Hearts
Poison Garden Book 2
By Jennifer Allis Provost
This continues where the first book left off. Another main character is added. More demons, ghosts, and paranormal activities abound. Fun story.
July 30, 2022
It's hard to pinpoint exactly what Bleeding Hearts is lacking compared to Oleander, but it's definitely lacking something.
❇️ There was more mystery than book one, but less humour and I was so here for the humour.
❇️ It was nice to see the relationship between Dan and Eli develop, but I expected more from it. It was kind of... bland.
❇️ There was also quite a bit of recap at the start which I never like.
❇️ These are quite minor complaints but when added together, they take away from the spark of the story.
Overall, Bleeding Hearts was an okay read, but it lacked the 'special something' of Oleander.
❇️ There was more mystery than book one, but less humour and I was so here for the humour.
❇️ It was nice to see the relationship between Dan and Eli develop, but I expected more from it. It was kind of... bland.
❇️ There was also quite a bit of recap at the start which I never like.
❇️ These are quite minor complaints but when added together, they take away from the spark of the story.
Overall, Bleeding Hearts was an okay read, but it lacked the 'special something' of Oleander.
April 2, 2025
4.5stars
I'm loving this series, so far. This is the second book but it's the third one I've read if we count the prequel. This book may be my favorite yet. I love Eli. She's strong, determined, and lovable. Dan is the perfect MMC. I have zero complaints about him. Seers, witches, action, mystery, spice and so much more. I can't wait to dive into Book 3.
I'm loving this series, so far. This is the second book but it's the third one I've read if we count the prequel. This book may be my favorite yet. I love Eli. She's strong, determined, and lovable. Dan is the perfect MMC. I have zero complaints about him. Seers, witches, action, mystery, spice and so much more. I can't wait to dive into Book 3.
May 15, 2025
After enjoying the first book in the series, I read this one in one sitting. I like how we explore a bit more of Eli's past and her family's history. The relationship with Dan deepens as well. We keep working on the case from the first book but with new elements. I can't wait to see where the third book will take me !
March 1, 2024
I'm hooked!
Second book in the series and I'm completely invested in Eli and Dan! An amazing mixture of magic and romance. It's exciting to watch the romantic bond between Dan and Eli grow, as well as their knowledge of their magical bond.
Second book in the series and I'm completely invested in Eli and Dan! An amazing mixture of magic and romance. It's exciting to watch the romantic bond between Dan and Eli grow, as well as their knowledge of their magical bond.
July 31, 2022
I love it when I'm right! In this case about all my predictions (and hopes) for the follow up book of Oleander. I was right threefold, and that also means spending time with book #2 of the Poison Garden series: Bleeding Hearts, was a good idea.
If you've read Oleander as well as my first review you can already guess what this means for big parts of the story. If you haven't read anything yet: What are you doing here?! Go Away! You'll ruin it for yourself! Here's the link to review Poison Garden book 1 .
New threats and relationships
Okay, now that it's between us Poison Garden initiated, I can directly explain my threefold correct predictions. It's also the easiest way to tell you that I liked book 2 and want number 3 asap. Book 1 ended with Eli telling Dan Nathaniel was still very much alive & kicking. And yes. Bleeding Hearts starts with Tessa and Eli doing everything in their power to find the elusive, powerful enemy. Strangely enough it isn't Nathaniel they find with divination, but something and eventually someone else.
During the course of their search and discovering there is a new threat in town, Dan and Eli grow closer. At the worst possible moment Eli gives in to the feelings she's been fighting. Which lead us to prophecy #2: luuuurve. But with an unexpected tension I applaud. Nothing is worse in love than wondering if you are or have been manipulated and played with emotionally. The second book in the Poison Garden series works with exactly that fear and reality.
Even Dan needs to face his past love life and come to terms with the fact our newest threat, someone from Eliza's past, has been playing the long game, making everyone's favourite cop indirectly involved. This is also the part where we get an inkling of the meaning of the series title. Puzzle pieces are dropping like flies in this installment and I'm all for it!
I also liked the fact her allies from Oleander are still backing her up, and we get to meet Daddy Moore!
While trying to discover what's happening around her and having to fight the "bad guys”, Eliza herself - here we have my 3rd prediction - discovers more and more about her lineage and what she can do magically. She's much more powerful than anyone could have thought, making her a threat to the power-hungry in this world. We get glimpses of her magic during the story, but the confrontation at the end especially shows she's a natural in more ways than one. Go Eli! I couldn't be happier. Besides, she's going to need that special oomph...
If you've read Oleander as well as my first review you can already guess what this means for big parts of the story. If you haven't read anything yet: What are you doing here?! Go Away! You'll ruin it for yourself! Here's the link to review Poison Garden book 1 .
New threats and relationships
Okay, now that it's between us Poison Garden initiated, I can directly explain my threefold correct predictions. It's also the easiest way to tell you that I liked book 2 and want number 3 asap. Book 1 ended with Eli telling Dan Nathaniel was still very much alive & kicking. And yes. Bleeding Hearts starts with Tessa and Eli doing everything in their power to find the elusive, powerful enemy. Strangely enough it isn't Nathaniel they find with divination, but something and eventually someone else.
During the course of their search and discovering there is a new threat in town, Dan and Eli grow closer. At the worst possible moment Eli gives in to the feelings she's been fighting. Which lead us to prophecy #2: luuuurve. But with an unexpected tension I applaud. Nothing is worse in love than wondering if you are or have been manipulated and played with emotionally. The second book in the Poison Garden series works with exactly that fear and reality.
Even Dan needs to face his past love life and come to terms with the fact our newest threat, someone from Eliza's past, has been playing the long game, making everyone's favourite cop indirectly involved. This is also the part where we get an inkling of the meaning of the series title. Puzzle pieces are dropping like flies in this installment and I'm all for it!
I also liked the fact her allies from Oleander are still backing her up, and we get to meet Daddy Moore!
While trying to discover what's happening around her and having to fight the "bad guys”, Eliza herself - here we have my 3rd prediction - discovers more and more about her lineage and what she can do magically. She's much more powerful than anyone could have thought, making her a threat to the power-hungry in this world. We get glimpses of her magic during the story, but the confrontation at the end especially shows she's a natural in more ways than one. Go Eli! I couldn't be happier. Besides, she's going to need that special oomph...
Urban fantasy style
Bleeding Hearts, like its predecessor, isn't necessarily the type of fantasy that shows you pages dripping with magic. This volume has Eliza doing a lot more already, and I love that, but I'm getting the feeling Provost is more focused on the story and her -as it turns out now - intricate plot than she is on showing fantasy. We do find out that demons exist – not the biblical kind – next to witches, seers and ghosts, but in general the amount of supernatural creatures is limited in the Poison Garden world.
Book two shows clearly what kind of Urban Fantasy we're dealing with -more so than the 'starter volume'. I wouldn't recommend this series to readers who only prefer The Hollows, the Kara Gillian, or Kate Daniels series – to name a few of my favourites - where main characters and their world are all magic all day and its the core motivator of the story most of the time. If you really want a more extensive world-building and supernaturals flexing their magical muscles every chapter, then Poison Garden might not be your first choice, or a choice at all.
That's not to say both Oleander and Bleeding Hearts don't show and tell about magic. The people involved deal with it plenty of times (and judging from book 2 and its ending will do so more). It's part of the story, makes main character Eliza Moore who she is, but it isn't her daily practice, her bread and butter. Nor is the world around her infused with it extensively. If you like a focus on interpersonal relationships, overcoming your demons - in this case predominantly the mental ones - within a paranormal context, and like the idea of how we're afraid of the monsters under our bed but should fear (magically enhanced) humans much more, you should pick up Poison Garden 1 & certainly #2.
We want Moore
Bleeding Hearts – explaining the title would be a major spoiler, so I won't – ends once again open ended. Unlike Oleander though we end the book with a proper cliffhanger (of sorts). With sweat in our hands and said hands in our hair, we wonder: how is Eli going to fix this mess?! Because while puzzle pieces were falling left and right, new problems arise as well. It's almost as if we're dealing with several mysteries at once. All linked and some not even showing yet. I need to know more! Simply put: I want more Moore.
In my previous review I mentioned that my reading load often ruins books for me because I'm not easily surprised and see events coming a mile away. Book 1 wasn't “an open book”, but still not surprising enough. The author definitely redeems herself completely this time. The steam train that started running with Oleander, Poison Garden 1, has obviously picked up speed. Bleeding Hearts was full steam ahead, letting several story lines and simple mentions from the first book come together. I was flattened on the rails for sure.
As said: I love it when I'm right! But I love it even more when I've just enjoyed a good book. Poison Garden 2 is everything I expected AND hoped. I read it in one go and said “Nooooo!” at the final page, because I was done too soon. In its particular UF corner Bleeding Hearts deserves a rating of four stars* and I'm for sure going to get the next installment in the series. Which is definitely a great rating in itself...
(* My way of rating
As a reviewer I have the reputation to be relatively critical. I was so when I reviewed in the spiritual/ self- help/occult sector - even gaining me the sometimes uncomfortable position of "deciding factor" for resellers needing to add stock to their (web)shops. I will never gain that for regular novels, but my opinion might still sway the average reader.
People are often weary when someone has received a book for free. Can we trust that reviewer to be honest? I can understand that. Some reviewers simply can't take the pressure or fear being blacklisted. I. Don't. Care. Perhaps it's the old school (Dutch) journalist in me, but to me being a reviewer means being honest and as objective as possible while using the same checklist, genre cadre and former book comparisons to use f.e.
The only thing I'm careful in, is that I try my hardest to have arguments for my criticism and to not be rude. No matter how bad you think a book is, a real human being is behind it. Other than that I think like this: If I decide to review, my job is to inform regardless of the way that book ended up with me. According to my BookSirens stats based on Goodreads I quite often score books lower than the majority. I guess that means I'm a rarity. Oh well, what else is new 😁. For you it also means that if we have a similar taste and you've noticed we agree on many books, from now on my 4 & 5 star recommendations (maybe even the 3*) will give you your moneys worth for sure.
I don't give a 4- star review quickly, and a 5- star one is even rarer. Even though I see others hand those out left and right. I've often been asked why mine are rare. Apart from the aforementioned there are a few other reasons.
Again: I read a lot, and have been since age 6 - I am not easily convinced anymore. Secondly, I am supposed to review these books and that means looking at all their parts. Initial enthusiasm might sway someone to give it 5 stars, but when you truly look at a book in order to inform other readers on several accounts it's just not logical to be handing out 5 stars as were they Halloween candies to 'trick or treaters'.
I have a maximum of 5 stars, which thus means 5=a perfect rating. (I much prefer 1-10 with half or quarter points, but unfortunately I don't have that option and flexibility). Pair that with the fact I can be as honest as can be, but never a 100% objective, and I need a personal extra “check” for a 5 star review. Do I expect to put the book or series in my Top xx- list and/or will I probably reread the series/ book at one point? Yes? (Even though that doesn't happen often either). Then it goes from a 4 to 5 stars. Anything else is 4 or below that. Btw, don't forget that a 3 star rating seems like a low result, but 3* still means “good”.)
Disclaimer: I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Bleeding Hearts through BookSirens, but I'm leaving this honest review completely voluntarily.
August 18, 2022
Content Warnings
Death of a spouse, in the past. Some issues with consent, although unknown to the character at the time. Some light lovin’.
“Eli's doing her best to run Nine Lives Investigations, keep the local witch clans happy as the new Mistress of Seers, and navigate her newfound closeness with Dan. Although, she's not really leading anything, and truth be told she's fine with the supernatural community looking after itself. What's not fine is that she and Tessa have been tracking Nathaniel Beauclaire for months, only to hit one dead end after another. When bleeding hearts start popping up all over town-out of season, mind you-Eli wonders what the universe is trying to tell her. Before she can figure out what the plants mean, someone threatens the clan elders, a group of (lame) ghost hunters begin dogging her every move, and she and Dan are attacked by a demon. Worst of all, each and every clue points toward Eli's ex, Amir, a power-mad seer she hasn't seen in years and never wants to see again, as the mastermind behind every piece of bad news. When Amir's ultimate goal becomes known, Eli hatches a mad plan to stop him for good-then a family secret comes out which could derail everything, including her newfound leadership of the seers. Will she fight for the title she never wanted, or will Amir take everything from her yet again? Eli never wanted to lead the seers, but she's sure as hell not going down without a fight.”
Sooo, Eli is back and she’s looking for Nathaniel, her nemesis from book 1, Oleander. The next thing she knows she’s dealing with slightly dodgy ghost hunters, demons, twisted time, someone vying for her position as Mistress of Seers, family secrets, an evil ex with an agenda, a deal with the devil and an explosion of pink flowers across town! So her hands are a little bit full…but not too full to finally start exploring her connection with Dan! Yay! Yet even that isn’t simple thanks to old relationships and maybe even a touch of demon possession, you know, usual relationship stuff…
I was so happy to get my hands on this book as I enjoyed Oleander so much, and it didn’t disappoint. This book really upped the ante, with more antagonists for Eli to deal with, and more emotional situations for her to cope with, and we know from Oleander that Eli doesn’t not like those. Eli has to confront her own past, and Dan’s, if she’s ever going to be able to unravel the mysteries she faces, which makes for a much more gripping read. Where Oleander was light, Bleeding Hearts has its darker moments but it’s still an immensely enjoyable read.
There is one part where the question of consent is a little thorny, but it’s not the fault of character in question. They don’t ignore consent, but if I tell you more it will spoil everything! The moment is kinda necessary (the same outcome may have been achieved without such a heavy violation of consent, but I don’t want to question an author’s vision for her characters), as it forces some emotions for the character to deal with in order to move on free of doubts. Some people may NOT enjoy this bit, and I have to say it made me uncomfortable and lost the book a ⭐️, but I understood what the author was trying to achieve. However, if you’re triggered by issues surrounding consent then maybe steer clear of this one.
Bleeding Hearts continues the story of Eli with a slightly darker tone, yet with lightness and hopefulness peeking through so it’s never too dark. Apart from one thorny issue, as mentioned above, I had no issues at all with this one. I’d recommend this to anyone who loves urban fantasy, especially with a hint of romance. It’s more on the light side of urban fantasy, definitely not as dark as some of my favourites on the darker side, but I love any form of urban fantasy so I’m happy! I’m so looking forward to book 3!
So, if you enjoyed the first book, or if this is your first introduction to the series - if so, head over to my review of Oleander, the first book in the series - I recommend snapping this one up. Both Oleander and Bleeding Hearts are nice quick reads, I devoured them in pretty much one sitting and was completely engrossed, an rooting for Eli and her friends. Can’t ask for more than that from a book really, can you? Thoroughly enjoyable ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read!
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
linktr.ee/merlinscove
Death of a spouse, in the past. Some issues with consent, although unknown to the character at the time. Some light lovin’.
“Eli's doing her best to run Nine Lives Investigations, keep the local witch clans happy as the new Mistress of Seers, and navigate her newfound closeness with Dan. Although, she's not really leading anything, and truth be told she's fine with the supernatural community looking after itself. What's not fine is that she and Tessa have been tracking Nathaniel Beauclaire for months, only to hit one dead end after another. When bleeding hearts start popping up all over town-out of season, mind you-Eli wonders what the universe is trying to tell her. Before she can figure out what the plants mean, someone threatens the clan elders, a group of (lame) ghost hunters begin dogging her every move, and she and Dan are attacked by a demon. Worst of all, each and every clue points toward Eli's ex, Amir, a power-mad seer she hasn't seen in years and never wants to see again, as the mastermind behind every piece of bad news. When Amir's ultimate goal becomes known, Eli hatches a mad plan to stop him for good-then a family secret comes out which could derail everything, including her newfound leadership of the seers. Will she fight for the title she never wanted, or will Amir take everything from her yet again? Eli never wanted to lead the seers, but she's sure as hell not going down without a fight.”
Sooo, Eli is back and she’s looking for Nathaniel, her nemesis from book 1, Oleander. The next thing she knows she’s dealing with slightly dodgy ghost hunters, demons, twisted time, someone vying for her position as Mistress of Seers, family secrets, an evil ex with an agenda, a deal with the devil and an explosion of pink flowers across town! So her hands are a little bit full…but not too full to finally start exploring her connection with Dan! Yay! Yet even that isn’t simple thanks to old relationships and maybe even a touch of demon possession, you know, usual relationship stuff…
I was so happy to get my hands on this book as I enjoyed Oleander so much, and it didn’t disappoint. This book really upped the ante, with more antagonists for Eli to deal with, and more emotional situations for her to cope with, and we know from Oleander that Eli doesn’t not like those. Eli has to confront her own past, and Dan’s, if she’s ever going to be able to unravel the mysteries she faces, which makes for a much more gripping read. Where Oleander was light, Bleeding Hearts has its darker moments but it’s still an immensely enjoyable read.
There is one part where the question of consent is a little thorny, but it’s not the fault of character in question. They don’t ignore consent, but if I tell you more it will spoil everything! The moment is kinda necessary (the same outcome may have been achieved without such a heavy violation of consent, but I don’t want to question an author’s vision for her characters), as it forces some emotions for the character to deal with in order to move on free of doubts. Some people may NOT enjoy this bit, and I have to say it made me uncomfortable and lost the book a ⭐️, but I understood what the author was trying to achieve. However, if you’re triggered by issues surrounding consent then maybe steer clear of this one.
Bleeding Hearts continues the story of Eli with a slightly darker tone, yet with lightness and hopefulness peeking through so it’s never too dark. Apart from one thorny issue, as mentioned above, I had no issues at all with this one. I’d recommend this to anyone who loves urban fantasy, especially with a hint of romance. It’s more on the light side of urban fantasy, definitely not as dark as some of my favourites on the darker side, but I love any form of urban fantasy so I’m happy! I’m so looking forward to book 3!
So, if you enjoyed the first book, or if this is your first introduction to the series - if so, head over to my review of Oleander, the first book in the series - I recommend snapping this one up. Both Oleander and Bleeding Hearts are nice quick reads, I devoured them in pretty much one sitting and was completely engrossed, an rooting for Eli and her friends. Can’t ask for more than that from a book really, can you? Thoroughly enjoyable ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read!
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
linktr.ee/merlinscove
September 20, 2022
I really like this series, I enjoy the characters and the development along the way. My only complaint with the series is that the ending of the first book felt rushed. Everything else was really good. I found myself looking forward to learning more about the characters, the history and what not.
This is a complicated book to write. But not for the reasons one would think. This is one of those series that would be made better with fewer books. The book by itself is a 4 star read.
The book even had a fair bit of surprise to it. The writing is great and worth reading. My only complaint with the book is that it would have made the first book better if it had been in there, instead of being its own book. The ending would have felt complete and it would have been one of those books that I threw extra stars at because it was worth more than just five simple stars.
This series is one of those series that you will probably burn through quickly because it is such an easy read.
I started this one before bed and burned through 90% of it. Adulting is the only reason that I made myself go to bed without finishing it.
I love the story development and I love the characters as much as ever. (I love it so much that in a just world Eli would be my BFF kind of love)
I love Eli. Her mind works much the way mine does. Her reactions to the flowers made me laugh. I’m really looking forward to seeing the completion of this series. Despite my issues with it being a trilogy instead of just a pair of books, it’s a great series that I want to have people love as much as I do. It’s got some great character development and it is an interesting read that kept me turning pages well past my bedtime.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a complicated book to write. But not for the reasons one would think. This is one of those series that would be made better with fewer books. The book by itself is a 4 star read.
The book even had a fair bit of surprise to it. The writing is great and worth reading. My only complaint with the book is that it would have made the first book better if it had been in there, instead of being its own book. The ending would have felt complete and it would have been one of those books that I threw extra stars at because it was worth more than just five simple stars.
This series is one of those series that you will probably burn through quickly because it is such an easy read.
I started this one before bed and burned through 90% of it. Adulting is the only reason that I made myself go to bed without finishing it.
I love the story development and I love the characters as much as ever. (I love it so much that in a just world Eli would be my BFF kind of love)
I love Eli. Her mind works much the way mine does. Her reactions to the flowers made me laugh. I’m really looking forward to seeing the completion of this series. Despite my issues with it being a trilogy instead of just a pair of books, it’s a great series that I want to have people love as much as I do. It’s got some great character development and it is an interesting read that kept me turning pages well past my bedtime.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 8, 2022
In book 2, the hunt is still on to find Nathaniel and put an end to him. Easier said than done, he keeps eluding them. Yet again, Eli has a mystery to solve, how are Bleeding Hearts flowering in summer? What is the purpose of them? Why are demons popping up possessing people? How are bleeding hearts in full bloom in summer? What is their purpose? Well, that answer was quite unexpected! Although a large chunk of this book centres around the romantic element, I found Dan's and Eli's relationship a romantic delight, sparing around each other, pretty much as fighters in a ring do, except their intent is not to knock the other out, but to discover what, if anything, they mean to each other. And yet, as much as Eli wants to, something is preventing her from embracing a full on relationship. My brain ticking over all the possibilities and coming up trumps as to the why, oh boy! I'm leaving it at that... So many things are happening simultaneously and as one mystery is unlocked, so another more complex one takes it's place! Most people have had a bad failed relationship but good grief, Eli's ex is a piece of work! Think about manipulative evil and you've hit the nail on the head. Ok, so, my previous reservations on Tessa appear to be unfounded, she's truly a great supportive figure for Eli. Finding out a few truths along the way, Eli and Dan realise they have more to unravel, very very quickly, Jada's life may be at stake. I'll be joining them on their journey, that's for sure!
July 13, 2022
Eli and Tess are trying to find Nathanial, but he seems to have disappeared. Suddenly she’s being followed by some pretty incompetent ghost hunters, and she and Tess are attacked. Next thing she knows Dan is possessed by a demon, bleeding hearts are blooming all over town and it’s not even the right season for them to bloom. To top it off she seems to have inherited her grandmother's position as Mistress of Seers, something she never wanted. Unfortunately, Eli soon realizes that her power-hungry ex, Amir, is in town and he’s determined to discredit her so he can lead the seers and gain even more power than he already has, some of which is strictly prohibited by the rules followed by the witches and seers. While Eli never wanted to lead, she is determined to do anything necessary to prevent Amir taking over.
I think all of the characters are well written, compelling, and unique, but I especially like Eli. She’s tough, sometimes snarky, but she always tries to do the right thing. I think Dan is her perfect match and was glad she finally realized how she felt about him. Magic, witches, demons, romance, explosions, and some surprising twists made it impossible for me to put this book down. I highly recommend this book and series. Fantastic!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I think all of the characters are well written, compelling, and unique, but I especially like Eli. She’s tough, sometimes snarky, but she always tries to do the right thing. I think Dan is her perfect match and was glad she finally realized how she felt about him. Magic, witches, demons, romance, explosions, and some surprising twists made it impossible for me to put this book down. I highly recommend this book and series. Fantastic!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
May 31, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I really like this series. It is a nice new twist on urban fantasy. I cannot wait for the next installment. Eli and Dan make such a wonderful couple/partnership. This author has brought two people together that are better together. It's a nice change instead of the constant angst of couples; love that. Eli is as strong a lead as Dan is; but they do not clash. The mystery is wonderfully put together. There is enough action to keep me (who has the attention span of a nat) never bored. I did not put it down until the end. The author did a really good job of not making it a cliff hanger but still leaves much to be discovered. The downside was there was quite a few grammar errors. Hopefully they will be corrected before publishing. The reason I gave it a 4 instead of a 5(I wish there was a 1/2 star) I do not enjoy blow by blow scenes in the bedroom. Though there was not a full chapter of sex (thank you Jennifer) it still is something I do not care for. This is my personal taste not necessarily anyone else's. If you have not picked this new series up, I highly suggest it.
August 21, 2022
This ARC was provided at no cost to me from BookSirens.com and I am providing an unbiased review.
This is the second book in the 'Poisoned Gardens' series and takes off pretty much just a short time after the events of the first book. Our main character, Eli, has put some space between her and the human cop, Dan. Her and her co-employer, Tessa, are still trying to track down our enemy from the first book, with not much luck. From there things got a brake-check from me. I got maybe a third of the way into the story and I just felt ... lost. I don't necessarily blame the author, or the writing style. It could just be me. I did finish reading the story but my attachment to it was pretty much non-existent.
There were some things we get to find out about the main characters past, so more character building was done (bravo). World building felt fine. Wrinting style was still fluent, and though there are some minor events that I find hard to swallow (at least for now) the story was still good, I just didn't feel as pulled into it as I did on the first book. I would still conider buying this for a fellow reader.
This is the second book in the 'Poisoned Gardens' series and takes off pretty much just a short time after the events of the first book. Our main character, Eli, has put some space between her and the human cop, Dan. Her and her co-employer, Tessa, are still trying to track down our enemy from the first book, with not much luck. From there things got a brake-check from me. I got maybe a third of the way into the story and I just felt ... lost. I don't necessarily blame the author, or the writing style. It could just be me. I did finish reading the story but my attachment to it was pretty much non-existent.
There were some things we get to find out about the main characters past, so more character building was done (bravo). World building felt fine. Wrinting style was still fluent, and though there are some minor events that I find hard to swallow (at least for now) the story was still good, I just didn't feel as pulled into it as I did on the first book. I would still conider buying this for a fellow reader.
August 26, 2023
I enjoy this series so much. The second book wasn’t quite as good as Oleander, but that’s to be expected. The shine of a new series has dimmed a bit, and now it’s time to get into the nitty gritty of the world and character development. It still ticks all the boxes for me of a paranormal private detective murder mystery series.
Eli and Dan sitting in a tree!
K.I.S.S.I.N…..demon possession.
We learned so much more about this books world, and the people in Eli’s life. We finally get to meet her father, and spend a little more time in her grandmother’s home. I secretly hope she moves into her grandmother’s home and we spend more time there. I often find second books seem to lose a little momentum sometimes because the author is solidifying the world for us. Which can get a little slow and make the main plot (Mystery to be solved) a little lack luster. But as a reader I’m generally okay with that, because more often than not it’s all up from here, and I love a good world build. Give me all the details!
Book 3 here I come!
ARC kindly provided from the author/publisher via BookSirens for an honest review.
Eli and Dan sitting in a tree!
K.I.S.S.I.N…..demon possession.
We learned so much more about this books world, and the people in Eli’s life. We finally get to meet her father, and spend a little more time in her grandmother’s home. I secretly hope she moves into her grandmother’s home and we spend more time there. I often find second books seem to lose a little momentum sometimes because the author is solidifying the world for us. Which can get a little slow and make the main plot (Mystery to be solved) a little lack luster. But as a reader I’m generally okay with that, because more often than not it’s all up from here, and I love a good world build. Give me all the details!
Book 3 here I come!
ARC kindly provided from the author/publisher via BookSirens for an honest review.
July 31, 2022
This novel was a great sequel to the first novel! We learn more about Dan and Eli, especially about some of both of their pasts. Some questions were answered, but several more were created. Eli and Dan continue to work together to solve cases, Dan being a cop and Eli is a seer who can talk to spirits and ghosts. They are still looking for Nathaniel Beauclaire, who caused a lot of trouble in the previous novel. However, the strange things occurring do not seem to be his work, for there is another sinister force at work. Eli has to confront her relationship issues, for they are preventing her from going into a new relationship, one which she desperately wants. We see Eli begin to embrace her abilities, but she is still hesitant about having a larger role between seers and witches. Dan helps Eli tremendously and provides another perspective. The novel ends on a bit of a cliffhanger and I am looking forward to see where their adventures take them next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 30, 2023
After reading Oleander (book 1 in The Poison Garden series), I had some pretty big expectations for Bleeding Hearts. Now, don't get me wrong - the book is good. The writing is smooth, the story flows well, and the world-building is done organically throughout the story. We also get a more developed mystery this time around, which is great. Nevertheless, some things just fell a little short of the mark for me. I loved the banter between Dan and Eli in Oleander, and while it's nice to see their relationship grow, I really missed the wit and humor in their dialogue. The secondary characters didn't feel as vibrant either, which was disappointing. I realize that things need to progress, and characters need to continue to grow and develop, but I'd have liked to see some elements continue here while still allowing for character growth.
Those are things that I missed in this book, and it's likely that it's all me and not the book, so don't let my 2 cents worth deter you. It's still a solid story, and I'd say urban fantasy readers will really like this series.
Those are things that I missed in this book, and it's likely that it's all me and not the book, so don't let my 2 cents worth deter you. It's still a solid story, and I'd say urban fantasy readers will really like this series.
July 16, 2022
Rvcd an advanced reader copy from BookSirens for giving my two cents. We met Eli and her cop friend Dan in the previous book finding a killer. Her friend and business associate Tessa and her are trying to locate Nathaniel which brought them to an empty Chinese restaurant...weird. then the next day thr restaurant is full of ppl and the cook days he was kidnapped. With Dan on the case, Eli senses things are not what they are esp with seeing bleeding heart flowers popping up out of season. On top of the weirdness she sees ghost hunters in town and they seem to know where she is at all times and then her dad has come back into town without notice. Something is going on and when possessions start to happen, esp when it happens to Dan, Eli knows things are not a coincidence. What she wasn't expecting was her ex Amir to show up out of the blue and doing forbidden magic. Plus there are secrets uncovered that Eli cannot fathom. Drama, lies, deceit, past loves and truths make this a good read.
August 15, 2022
Embracing her birthright is all fine and dandy until demons show up, bleeding hearts bloom, and her ex causes mischief. This PI’s hands are full trying to solve a new mystery. With lover boy Dan by her side, Eli’s got a family secret to contend with before she can become Mistress of Seers.
With the next instalment in the Poison Garden series we follow Eli and her friends as they navigate plenty of new problems. With a little less humour than the previous novel, Bleeding Hearts certainly keeps us guessing with this new mystery. I felt like the plot was a bit clumsy and I wanted a bit more depth from the relationship between Dan and Eli, however this story does set up nicely for a sequel. Overall, Provost’s witty and endearing characters carry the book through to create an enjoyable read.
I received an advanced review copy for free from BookSirens, and am leaving my review voluntarily.
With the next instalment in the Poison Garden series we follow Eli and her friends as they navigate plenty of new problems. With a little less humour than the previous novel, Bleeding Hearts certainly keeps us guessing with this new mystery. I felt like the plot was a bit clumsy and I wanted a bit more depth from the relationship between Dan and Eli, however this story does set up nicely for a sequel. Overall, Provost’s witty and endearing characters carry the book through to create an enjoyable read.
I received an advanced review copy for free from BookSirens, and am leaving my review voluntarily.
September 5, 2022
Thank you BookSirens for an ARC of Bleeding Hearts in return for an honest review.
While I loved the first book in the Poison Garden series, I was not into this one. I’m totally ok with Dan and Eli’s romance but I just didn’t want it to be the forefront of the plot nor was I expecting it. I was hoping for a similar mystery forward, love in the background book as the first and sadly this was not the case. This was 100% a romance novel with very little mystery/crime solving. There is so much possibility with this series and I think with a great editor it could be exceptional. I feel bad giving this book 3 stars but it just was way more cringe than I was expecting and the meat of the plot didn’t show up until I was about 70% through the book. Maybe now that the author has established the love story the next book in the series will be better. My fingers are crossed, because I really did have such high hopes for this series!
While I loved the first book in the Poison Garden series, I was not into this one. I’m totally ok with Dan and Eli’s romance but I just didn’t want it to be the forefront of the plot nor was I expecting it. I was hoping for a similar mystery forward, love in the background book as the first and sadly this was not the case. This was 100% a romance novel with very little mystery/crime solving. There is so much possibility with this series and I think with a great editor it could be exceptional. I feel bad giving this book 3 stars but it just was way more cringe than I was expecting and the meat of the plot didn’t show up until I was about 70% through the book. Maybe now that the author has established the love story the next book in the series will be better. My fingers are crossed, because I really did have such high hopes for this series!
June 18, 2022
Absolutely loved this second book of the series. Learning more about Eli's story along with the developing romance made it a great read. The character development of Dan, Jada, Nathaniel, Tessa, Alex and the other cast was well done and the story flowed nicely. I didn't want to put it down and read past my bedtime just to see what would happen. There were only a couple of grammatical issues with this one which was a huge improvement from the first book. Overall I enjoyed this read, it was the right amount of paranormal fantasy, with a bit of romance and thriller mixed in.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to the author, publisher and BookSirens for this opportunity to discover another great author to add to my list of must reads.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to the author, publisher and BookSirens for this opportunity to discover another great author to add to my list of must reads.
June 23, 2022
Wow.
My journey with sexy detective Dan and charismatic Eli continues.
Together as partners they proceeded with secrets and mysteries of the past. What lies ahead of them and their relationship? Can they move past work-relationship forward to love-relationship?How bleeding hearts fits in this story? How Eli’s Dad and Tess fall into the evil’s plot? Just Read and you will receive answers.
This story is a true detective romcom in a way, definitely got the vibe of Castle from this story.
So if you want to prepare mental board with all the facts we are getting in the book and with assumptions, this book is ideal for you. Love story is cute and believable, don’t forget DAN!
Will definitely continue this series. (Small sneak peek in book #3 was amazing)
Note: Book was kindly provided by @booksirens for free. Many thanks!
My journey with sexy detective Dan and charismatic Eli continues.
Together as partners they proceeded with secrets and mysteries of the past. What lies ahead of them and their relationship? Can they move past work-relationship forward to love-relationship?How bleeding hearts fits in this story? How Eli’s Dad and Tess fall into the evil’s plot? Just Read and you will receive answers.
This story is a true detective romcom in a way, definitely got the vibe of Castle from this story.
So if you want to prepare mental board with all the facts we are getting in the book and with assumptions, this book is ideal for you. Love story is cute and believable, don’t forget DAN!
Will definitely continue this series. (Small sneak peek in book #3 was amazing)
Note: Book was kindly provided by @booksirens for free. Many thanks!
August 9, 2022
I really enjoyed this story of private detective Eliza "Eli" Moore and loved the love story between her and Dan. I am a sucker for characters who may not have all the answers, but never stop fighting. Eli and Dan are smart, observant and unrelenting in their quest to right wrongs. Their relationship is beautiful and I love watching them continue to make each other stronger.
I loved how the author has thrown out so many random story breadcrumbs, and yet she continues to bring them back into the fold. Watching Eli bring the different factions together in fragile alliances against the new "big bad" is a masterful exercise in bringing your friends close and your enemies closer. I can't wait until the next installment.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved how the author has thrown out so many random story breadcrumbs, and yet she continues to bring them back into the fold. Watching Eli bring the different factions together in fragile alliances against the new "big bad" is a masterful exercise in bringing your friends close and your enemies closer. I can't wait until the next installment.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 16, 2022
Loved the story! Loved how Eli and Dan's love literally blossomed into bleeding hearts all over town. I wish more of the story had been resolved in theis book, rather than such a cliffhanger. Its a great read, but so much is left hanging. I think more should have been addressed. Amir is a presence, and kind of an evil one, but not enough backstory to really make you hate him. Her dad being a marksman is confusing as that term is usually meant for killing people not tattooing them. Learning new language is necessary for this one. Loved how the belt buckle had such an affect on Bennett but not sure why he took to wearing it? Some questions but all-in-all, a great read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 17, 2023
This book is quick and easy to read, despite dealing with some of the heavier topics around love and loss. I am thoroughly enjoying how Eli and Dan’s relationship is developing - they feel real, and while there’s an element of “fated mates”, it doesn’t feel twee.
My main critique is the pacing - while the book is very much part of a series and cannot be read as a stand-alone, it didn’t feel like a complete story in and of itself. More of a build up to the conclusion, and maybe more page time for Amir, would have helped with this.
Regardless, I definitely enjoyed this and am looking forward to the next instalment!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My main critique is the pacing - while the book is very much part of a series and cannot be read as a stand-alone, it didn’t feel like a complete story in and of itself. More of a build up to the conclusion, and maybe more page time for Amir, would have helped with this.
Regardless, I definitely enjoyed this and am looking forward to the next instalment!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 21, 2024
What is the magick that enables you to read?
There are many attributes that develop as you change from a toddler to a retired person. The enjoyment of reading is one of them. JAP has found a way to enhance the pleasure of reading in this series of books. If you will pardon the pun - witches are old hat, ghosts, well you can see right through them. Seer, this is a really good updating of this old but under wrote gift which has been neglected for too long, now the birthright seer Eli is forced to follow the path she has been avoiding. Bring on book 3 of this cracking unusual twist of Urban Fantasy, thank you JENNIFER ALLIS PROVOST, my garden will never be the place of innocence ever again.
There are many attributes that develop as you change from a toddler to a retired person. The enjoyment of reading is one of them. JAP has found a way to enhance the pleasure of reading in this series of books. If you will pardon the pun - witches are old hat, ghosts, well you can see right through them. Seer, this is a really good updating of this old but under wrote gift which has been neglected for too long, now the birthright seer Eli is forced to follow the path she has been avoiding. Bring on book 3 of this cracking unusual twist of Urban Fantasy, thank you JENNIFER ALLIS PROVOST, my garden will never be the place of innocence ever again.
July 29, 2022
I received this book as an ARC from Booksirens and my review is honest and voluntary.
If you enjoyed Charmed and Ghost Whisperer, you'll love this series!
I really enjoyed this book as well! It picked up right where we left off last book in Oleander. I enjoyed the progression of Eli and Dan's romance. They are just so sweet together! I thought it was sweet when we found out what the bleeding heart plants meant. I even began to like Nathaniel, maybe he isn't all bad 😂 Her ex is absolutely horrible and I can't wait to read what happens to him in the next book! I'm obsessed with this series! Tess and her Dad are awesome side characters and Bennett was cute as always!
If you enjoyed Charmed and Ghost Whisperer, you'll love this series!
I really enjoyed this book as well! It picked up right where we left off last book in Oleander. I enjoyed the progression of Eli and Dan's romance. They are just so sweet together! I thought it was sweet when we found out what the bleeding heart plants meant. I even began to like Nathaniel, maybe he isn't all bad 😂 Her ex is absolutely horrible and I can't wait to read what happens to him in the next book! I'm obsessed with this series! Tess and her Dad are awesome side characters and Bennett was cute as always!
August 16, 2022
The story is following Eli and her investigative firm, Nine Lives Investigation, which keep her plenty busy since she has deep ties to the magic world.
This book allows a different layer of her world to show itself and gives a lot mor background info on Eli as well as Dan, the officer who also became a friend.
It has interesting twists and turns, forcing former foes to work together. Can’t wait for the sequel to tie lose ends and find out how Eli can best Amir.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book allows a different layer of her world to show itself and gives a lot mor background info on Eli as well as Dan, the officer who also became a friend.
It has interesting twists and turns, forcing former foes to work together. Can’t wait for the sequel to tie lose ends and find out how Eli can best Amir.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 26, 2022
I thought this was a great second book in the series. Warning, to know what’s going on you really need to read the firs book Oleander. I was thrilled to learn more about our main character seer Eli and watching her developing romance with PI Dan grow. Character development and the storyline magic has the right combination to make this second book interesting and keep you wanting that third installment to be released pronto! I received a free copy of the book in advance and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
April 2, 2023
Bleeding Hearts - Poison Garden: Book 2 by Jennifer Allis Provost - 4/5
Book 2 comes in swinging!! Without missing a beat, the hunt is on to find Nathaniel. Finding Nathaniel is playing out a little harder than anyone would want but that doesn't stop Eliza from doing her day job, being a PI. So many things are thrown at Eliza in this book and all the characters had evolved since book 1. I am looking forward to book 3, Thornapple, and where that will lead all the characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Book 2 comes in swinging!! Without missing a beat, the hunt is on to find Nathaniel. Finding Nathaniel is playing out a little harder than anyone would want but that doesn't stop Eliza from doing her day job, being a PI. So many things are thrown at Eliza in this book and all the characters had evolved since book 1. I am looking forward to book 3, Thornapple, and where that will lead all the characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 27, 2022
I didn't enjoy this one quite as much as the first, but it was still a wonderful read! I love how the bleeding hearts tie into the plot! My only complaint is that the book could really use a good editing polish. I excused it on the first book, but since this one was also rife with errors it unfortunately lost a star. Excellent read, can't wait to start in on Thornapple!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 15, 2022
Thank you so much Jennifer Allis Provost and Book Sirens for sharing an advanced copy of Bleeding Hearts with me.
I loved this just as much as I loved the first in the series. It's a really, fun quick read. I was able to get through it in one sitting, so perfect for a beach read or a reading slump.
I loved the new adventures we went on with our characters and learning more and more about them. Urban fantasy isn't usually my thing but I really enjoy this series!
I loved this just as much as I loved the first in the series. It's a really, fun quick read. I was able to get through it in one sitting, so perfect for a beach read or a reading slump.
I loved the new adventures we went on with our characters and learning more and more about them. Urban fantasy isn't usually my thing but I really enjoy this series!
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