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Kali James #3
Stitching the Talisman
Some women settle for charm bracelets. I get a murder of crows tattooed on my body.
And that's the good news. After sending a demon back to hell, I thought I'd have a few weeks to kick back with my girls, go on that hot date with a certain stony-eyed enforcer, maybe even catch an outdoor concert or two.
When witches start turning up dead, the Tribunal calls in a favor that lands me in the middle of a supernatural murder investigation. Again. When that search intertwines with a decade-old trail into my sister's death, there is nothing I won’t do to get answers.
In a world where death and magic are power plays, it's hard to tell who's got your back and who's pulling the strings. One wrong move, and I risk igniting a war capable of consuming us all.
Stitching the Talisman is the third book in the Kali James series, featuring a reluctant necromancer who finds herself in a world of werewolves, vampires, and ghosts. If you like your urban fantasy with quirky characters, a side of supernatural mystery, and a dose of slow-burn romance, this series is for you.
And that's the good news. After sending a demon back to hell, I thought I'd have a few weeks to kick back with my girls, go on that hot date with a certain stony-eyed enforcer, maybe even catch an outdoor concert or two.
When witches start turning up dead, the Tribunal calls in a favor that lands me in the middle of a supernatural murder investigation. Again. When that search intertwines with a decade-old trail into my sister's death, there is nothing I won’t do to get answers.
In a world where death and magic are power plays, it's hard to tell who's got your back and who's pulling the strings. One wrong move, and I risk igniting a war capable of consuming us all.
Stitching the Talisman is the third book in the Kali James series, featuring a reluctant necromancer who finds herself in a world of werewolves, vampires, and ghosts. If you like your urban fantasy with quirky characters, a side of supernatural mystery, and a dose of slow-burn romance, this series is for you.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 28, 2022
150 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
September 19, 2024
Quite the explosive 3rd book in the series! Good grief! Did I ever sympathise with Kali! She's found herself smack bang in the middle of a huge mystery, who is killing witches and more importantly, why? What she wants most of all, is to see her sister's murder brought to justice. But she has no idea what she's in for! And heavens, someone is hellbent on bringing demons into this world! I loved her character, she's so feisty! I heaved a sigh when Craig and Kali sorted themselves out, like, thank goodness! Craig has to be my favourite Gargoyle, and he's a cool guy too. But a special mention must be made for Riley, OMG is she incredible! She puts her foot in it time and time again, I'm still giggling at her antics in the Compound. The "mom" in me is rolling my eyes and wanting to shush her and the "reader" in me is delighted! Her shenanigans are something else!
So many twist to this story, so much happening, so many shady characters. Really shady! I'm never clear if they have hidden agendas or what! I loved how the storyline progresses over the course of the series, the world the author describes is definitely not the run of the mill world, rather an interesting take on supernatural creatures, their wants, their bias, their secrets, all make for a really exciting read
So many twist to this story, so much happening, so many shady characters. Really shady! I'm never clear if they have hidden agendas or what! I loved how the storyline progresses over the course of the series, the world the author describes is definitely not the run of the mill world, rather an interesting take on supernatural creatures, their wants, their bias, their secrets, all make for a really exciting read
December 15, 2024
Well knock me down with a feather what a fantastic thrill ride this installment
was keeping me on the edge of my seat until the very last page. AND DAMN that twist, I was totally blindsided by that little gem and I'm still in shock as I write this review. Once again I was fully immersed into Kali's world and although it's a bit darker than the other books it still has the humor I've come to love from this author and I can't wait to see how it all ends.
After banishing a demon back to hell, Kali is looking forward to some much needed downtime. However, when witches start turning up dead, the Tribunal calls in Kali putting her smack bang into yet another supernatural murder investigation. Can Kali get to the bottom of the deaths in time while also seeking the answers to her sisters murder?
Again I can't say just how much I adore Kali, she's feisty, rapidly becoming a force in her own right with her magic and kick ass to boot. Her relationship with Craig is progressing nicely even if they don't always get time to go on a proper date. I did feel sorry for her when she went to see her brother and father as you get to see just how the death of her sister has affected their family dynamic and I was glad that Craig was there to lend his support. I also can't wait to see how Kali deals with the curve ball she's been dealt in the next book.
Riley is a character that is guaranteed to bring a smile to my face or bring out and out laughter whenever she appears on the page. Her unpredictable and chaotic nature makes her an absolute delight to read and the fact that she can make Max blush has me loving her all the more.
As much as Max can be a bit of an ass especially to Kali, I have to say he's definitely grown on me. And a revelation about him and Riley had me literally spitting out my drink everywhere.
And lastly Craig the man literally made of stone, who is fiercely protective of Kali and will stop at nothing to keep her safe, with his little declaration made my heart skip a beat and had me swooning all over again. He's totally cemented himself into my book boyfriend harem and there he will stay forever.
So yep this book has captivated me from the get go and although I'm devastated to only have one more book left to read, I can't wait to see how the author ties up this tale. This is storytelling at its best with intriguing characters and a fantastic plot and I highly recommend this series to everyone, do yourself a favour and go read today. You won't be disappointed 😁
was keeping me on the edge of my seat until the very last page. AND DAMN that twist, I was totally blindsided by that little gem and I'm still in shock as I write this review. Once again I was fully immersed into Kali's world and although it's a bit darker than the other books it still has the humor I've come to love from this author and I can't wait to see how it all ends.
After banishing a demon back to hell, Kali is looking forward to some much needed downtime. However, when witches start turning up dead, the Tribunal calls in Kali putting her smack bang into yet another supernatural murder investigation. Can Kali get to the bottom of the deaths in time while also seeking the answers to her sisters murder?
Again I can't say just how much I adore Kali, she's feisty, rapidly becoming a force in her own right with her magic and kick ass to boot. Her relationship with Craig is progressing nicely even if they don't always get time to go on a proper date. I did feel sorry for her when she went to see her brother and father as you get to see just how the death of her sister has affected their family dynamic and I was glad that Craig was there to lend his support. I also can't wait to see how Kali deals with the curve ball she's been dealt in the next book.
Riley is a character that is guaranteed to bring a smile to my face or bring out and out laughter whenever she appears on the page. Her unpredictable and chaotic nature makes her an absolute delight to read and the fact that she can make Max blush has me loving her all the more.
As much as Max can be a bit of an ass especially to Kali, I have to say he's definitely grown on me. And a revelation about him and Riley had me literally spitting out my drink everywhere.
And lastly Craig the man literally made of stone, who is fiercely protective of Kali and will stop at nothing to keep her safe, with his little declaration made my heart skip a beat and had me swooning all over again. He's totally cemented himself into my book boyfriend harem and there he will stay forever.
So yep this book has captivated me from the get go and although I'm devastated to only have one more book left to read, I can't wait to see how the author ties up this tale. This is storytelling at its best with intriguing characters and a fantastic plot and I highly recommend this series to everyone, do yourself a favour and go read today. You won't be disappointed 😁
December 17, 2024
After sending the demon back to hell, Kali is just trying to relax and decides to get a tattoo to cover the demon mark scar she has. But things are not so quiet, witches are being murdered. Asked to assist by Craig, to call the ghosts of the murdered witch.
She discovered that there seems to be two people involved in the murder, a witch and a vampire.
As she gets deeper into the investigation, it seems to be connected with her sister’s death.
There is quite a mystery here, who, what and why. There is also action, humour, surprises, new friends and enemies with a bit of romance thrown it. The discovery by Kali and Craig that Riley and Max have something going on is very well done.
Kali keeps getting into danger with Craig trying to keep her safe but circumstances don’t really work for them.
This is a quick, easy, fun read and again, I’m loving every word.
This sort of ends on a cliffhanger, an interesting development to say the least and I’m going to quickly get into the next book.
She discovered that there seems to be two people involved in the murder, a witch and a vampire.
As she gets deeper into the investigation, it seems to be connected with her sister’s death.
There is quite a mystery here, who, what and why. There is also action, humour, surprises, new friends and enemies with a bit of romance thrown it. The discovery by Kali and Craig that Riley and Max have something going on is very well done.
Kali keeps getting into danger with Craig trying to keep her safe but circumstances don’t really work for them.
This is a quick, easy, fun read and again, I’m loving every word.
This sort of ends on a cliffhanger, an interesting development to say the least and I’m going to quickly get into the next book.
October 5, 2023
3.5 rounded up
While still peppered with TSTL moments, this book focused more on character interactions and development, which made it immensely better than its predecessors.
*Riley's antics have kept me coming back to this series and luckily we got to see quite a few chapters with her in this book. Can I just wonder out loud why Emma even exists as a character? I think an editor should have cut her non existent character out of the series.
While still peppered with TSTL moments, this book focused more on character interactions and development, which made it immensely better than its predecessors.
*Riley's antics have kept me coming back to this series and luckily we got to see quite a few chapters with her in this book. Can I just wonder out loud why Emma even exists as a character? I think an editor should have cut her non existent character out of the series.
November 29, 2022
This new installment in the Kali James series starts out with a paintball game. It's light, it's fun, and all of the characters are re-introduced in a lighthearted way. It ends with demons and darkness, so be prepared for a fantastic roller-coaster ride!
This series gets better as it goes. Kali continues to grow as a necromancer, which in this installment is the introduction to the plot, as the council calls on a favor she owes them to find out why witches are turning up dead. She uses her particular set of skills to call their spirits for help in identifying their murderers, only to uncover a sinister plan a lot more convoluted then first suspected!
This is the best book so far in this series. Although it is also the darkest one, it still has light-hearted and funny moments (usually around Riley, the lovable if a bit crazy, goat-shifter)—including one awkward moment between Riley and the alpha-hole we all love to hate—Max. (Seriously, there are many antics. I mean if Riley can make an alpha wolf blush, what can't she do?)
This is one of the best series of the year, so do yourself a favor and pick it up! You won't be disappointed!
This series gets better as it goes. Kali continues to grow as a necromancer, which in this installment is the introduction to the plot, as the council calls on a favor she owes them to find out why witches are turning up dead. She uses her particular set of skills to call their spirits for help in identifying their murderers, only to uncover a sinister plan a lot more convoluted then first suspected!
This is the best book so far in this series. Although it is also the darkest one, it still has light-hearted and funny moments (usually around Riley, the lovable if a bit crazy, goat-shifter)—including one awkward moment between Riley and the alpha-hole we all love to hate—Max. (Seriously, there are many antics. I mean if Riley can make an alpha wolf blush, what can't she do?)
This is one of the best series of the year, so do yourself a favor and pick it up! You won't be disappointed!
November 29, 2022
Good
WARNING: there’s a bit of a cliffhanger ending to this one. Yes, the main story is completed and a number of loose ends are tied up BUT… there’s a new storyline that’s setup and hanging!
Kali is enjoying her normal peaceful life, right up until a series of murders drags her back into the world of necromancy and a witch killer on the loose. With Craig and Riley by her side she travels far to learn the truth, unraveling secrets relating to her sister’s death and facing new dangers.
The stakes are increasing with this story, and some big revelations are made, and a few nice things happen too.
But wow, what an ending! Kali has a lot to deal with, and it leaves the reader hyped up and hanging!
It’s a well paced story, with some great characters. Riley provides most of the comic relief (as a goat in human form should), while Kali does the drama. There’s angst, action, danger, and some eyebrow raising moments, making for a tale that is at time tense as secrets are revealed.
A good addition to the series, this is not a standalone by any means, but a great read nonetheless.
Recommended for urban fantasy lovers (and especially those into sewing!)
WARNING: there’s a bit of a cliffhanger ending to this one. Yes, the main story is completed and a number of loose ends are tied up BUT… there’s a new storyline that’s setup and hanging!
Kali is enjoying her normal peaceful life, right up until a series of murders drags her back into the world of necromancy and a witch killer on the loose. With Craig and Riley by her side she travels far to learn the truth, unraveling secrets relating to her sister’s death and facing new dangers.
The stakes are increasing with this story, and some big revelations are made, and a few nice things happen too.
But wow, what an ending! Kali has a lot to deal with, and it leaves the reader hyped up and hanging!
It’s a well paced story, with some great characters. Riley provides most of the comic relief (as a goat in human form should), while Kali does the drama. There’s angst, action, danger, and some eyebrow raising moments, making for a tale that is at time tense as secrets are revealed.
A good addition to the series, this is not a standalone by any means, but a great read nonetheless.
Recommended for urban fantasy lovers (and especially those into sewing!)
January 15, 2025
Wow, this book has all the action, attempts at revenge, a bit more romance between Kali and Craig and finally Kali ramping up her skillset in necromancy as she recovers from the demon she accidentally called and who attempted to possess her in the last book. Finding the letter from her family sends her to Romania and she discovered it is all tied together as other witches are no being murdered in several cities. The conclave has now stuck their fingers in Kali’s business. One of the best scenes in the book is a visit to Chicago with Craig to see her family and do some research. The vampires are creepy in this series and after Craig reveals his hand, Kali has to make some decisions. Anxiety, Meira, Riley and her witches are the best support system in her life since she lost Claire.
December 5, 2022
Following closely on the heels of Threading the Bones, the new book by L.A. McBride crackles from the opening sentence. Not only is Kali different and more mature in this episode but so is Ms. McBride. Her writing glides the reader along from the bottoms of KC to Romania and back. Someone is killing elemental witches and the council has called in a favor from Kali. The demon exorcised is still on her mind but she knows she must help as lives continue to be lost. Her relationship with her lover and friends strengthens and she adds allies and enemies as a distant war seemingly looms closer. Best book yet in the series by far.
November 28, 2022
She thought that she would have a break, after all the trouble that landed on her doorstep previously, but it's just not meant to be. Can Kali at least win against their local painball rivals? Will she find out where the danger is coming from, and solve the mystery of who is killing? I loved this thrilling tale, with it's touch of romance, humour and a strong/determine (but still lovable) lead woman. I also could help, but love her love interest Craig and best friend (and mischief maker, Riley).
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received, and giving my thoughts and opinions on it.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received, and giving my thoughts and opinions on it.
November 28, 2022
I recieved a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and what an easy job that is. This is another exciting book about Kali, a powerful necromancer who has only recently been introduced to the supernatural world. I loved book 1. Book 2 was better and this one topped them all. The world broadens, the characters deepen, the secrets unravel and the stakes are raised with each book. I almost wish I'd waited so I could binge the series all at once. But nah, I'll be happy reading each one as soon as they come out!
July 14, 2023
This is book 3 in the Kali James series and it’s really getting interesting! Kali and Craig are definitely progressing in their relationship. Meanwhile, more witches are being murdered in similar rituals. There are are also more clues about Kali’s gma and sister. The “team” flies all over the world to figure out what is going on and there are some plot twists I did not see coming at the end! Not sure how Kali will fix this but I will definitely find out! Im anxious to see how much more Kali grows as a person and I loved getting more into Riley’s character as well!!!
November 30, 2022
This wonderfully fun Urban Fantasy series just keeps getting more interesting and Funny. There are dark moments, and crazy times that kept me turning pages until almost daylight. I enjoyed every bit of it. Great book and I am looking forward to finding out what happens in the next book! Make sure to read in order! I Loved It!!! No Spoilers!
I received an ARC from the Author and I am Leaving this Totally Honest Review because I Choose to, and loved the story!!!
I received an ARC from the Author and I am Leaving this Totally Honest Review because I Choose to, and loved the story!!!
January 11, 2023
good
I liked this as there was progress in Kali’s relationships with Craig and insights into her history. I feel the murder investigation for sidelined and the ending was a bit too quick. I like that Craig called Kali out for acting without thought - that is a very annoying trait in MC. The tattoo was a bit hard to take, both the stupidity of the act and the fact that no-one noticed before it was a demon?
I liked this as there was progress in Kali’s relationships with Craig and insights into her history. I feel the murder investigation for sidelined and the ending was a bit too quick. I like that Craig called Kali out for acting without thought - that is a very annoying trait in MC. The tattoo was a bit hard to take, both the stupidity of the act and the fact that no-one noticed before it was a demon?
March 2, 2023
At least there are real consequences for her stupidity
The main character is an idiot and probably won't be my favorite, ever. I have to admit she has real flaws and has come a long way since book one. Yes she does stupid stuff but she recognizes her shortcomings and has had to work to overcome. She does stupid stuff and has to pay for those mistakes. The character might not be my favorite but I admire the authors work and look forward to seeing more from her.
The main character is an idiot and probably won't be my favorite, ever. I have to admit she has real flaws and has come a long way since book one. Yes she does stupid stuff but she recognizes her shortcomings and has had to work to overcome. She does stupid stuff and has to pay for those mistakes. The character might not be my favorite but I admire the authors work and look forward to seeing more from her.
February 24, 2025
Fun read
This book picks up a bit after the last one, so Kali is a little less "green" in the magic department. I liked the book overall, but it does move slowly. This is the third book, the time when it seems the author realizes they didn't give the MC enough power to defeat the big bad so they get new powers. I did like the way it was written into the story but still deserves an eye roll.
This book picks up a bit after the last one, so Kali is a little less "green" in the magic department. I liked the book overall, but it does move slowly. This is the third book, the time when it seems the author realizes they didn't give the MC enough power to defeat the big bad so they get new powers. I did like the way it was written into the story but still deserves an eye roll.
February 25, 2024
The McBride of Surprise
Kali is a force of nature. Err... or a force of supernatural kickassery. I mean, with her strengths and a power boosting tatoo, who needs a rock-hard mass of man-meat muscle to step in and save the day? Not this girl! With her pink-haired bestie, ain't nuthin' keeping them down! Or out of trouble.
Such fun! Please don't miss out.
Kali is a force of nature. Err... or a force of supernatural kickassery. I mean, with her strengths and a power boosting tatoo, who needs a rock-hard mass of man-meat muscle to step in and save the day? Not this girl! With her pink-haired bestie, ain't nuthin' keeping them down! Or out of trouble.
Such fun! Please don't miss out.
January 14, 2025
Out of the frying pan and into the fire.
Kali can't seem to keep herself out of trouble. It's a good thing she has so many people willing to watch her back.
This was another fun addition to the series. I enjoyed seeing the Romania trip from Kali's POV since I'd already seen it from Riley's.
The book kept me guessing who the villain was.
I can't wait to see what's next.
Kali can't seem to keep herself out of trouble. It's a good thing she has so many people willing to watch her back.
This was another fun addition to the series. I enjoyed seeing the Romania trip from Kali's POV since I'd already seen it from Riley's.
The book kept me guessing who the villain was.
I can't wait to see what's next.
January 19, 2025
This might be my favorite book of the series, although I really missed the Kali/Riley dynamic in this book. I am hoping an Alexei/Shato spin-off is in the works and it was great to get to know Alexei better. I loved that Rhaum is also becoming more of an actual character in this book. This book is why the series needs to be read before you read Riley's series.
November 28, 2022
Started out good
I just feel like this has a very depressing end. Also they should just kill her. Very disappointing end. Most of the book is OK though 👌 Not going to read the next one which is surprising given I've read this many
I just feel like this has a very depressing end. Also they should just kill her. Very disappointing end. Most of the book is OK though 👌 Not going to read the next one which is surprising given I've read this many
December 5, 2022
Kali in over her head
A wonderful continuation on the series. Kali is learning but not fast enough. She’s got clues to find her sister’s killer and vampire and witches killing fire elementals. Plus She’s busy trying to stay alive.
Can’t wait for the next one
A wonderful continuation on the series. Kali is learning but not fast enough. She’s got clues to find her sister’s killer and vampire and witches killing fire elementals. Plus She’s busy trying to stay alive.
Can’t wait for the next one
February 9, 2023
Great series!
This series started a little slow to me but after 20 pages, I was hooked! I read the 1st 3 books in 4 days. No spoilers here. Not my style. I just promise it's worth reading!
This series started a little slow to me but after 20 pages, I was hooked! I read the 1st 3 books in 4 days. No spoilers here. Not my style. I just promise it's worth reading!
May 8, 2023
Unexpected plot twist
It’s pretty rare that an author surprises me with a plot twist, so I did enjoy this. Things have progressed to the next level. Can’t wait to find out what new surprises are in store
It’s pretty rare that an author surprises me with a plot twist, so I did enjoy this. Things have progressed to the next level. Can’t wait to find out what new surprises are in store
May 29, 2023
Marvelous Book
I couldn't put this book down. I loved the twists and turns although, I'm good at figuring out what's going to happen next. I world recommend this to anyone who loves reading about supernatural.
I couldn't put this book down. I loved the twists and turns although, I'm good at figuring out what's going to happen next. I world recommend this to anyone who loves reading about supernatural.
August 24, 2023
The characters in this series just get better and better. The group of kick-ass old quilting witches made me laugh out loud, and I still LOVE the unique way the author approached supernatural creatures and lore.
January 4, 2026
I am enjoying the series but for me it suffers in comparison to Riley's books which was how I was introduced to this world. I know Kali came first and if I read them in that order I amy feel differently, but I didn't so Riley is my girl.
November 27, 2022
Another great installment in Ms. McBride's series, demons, wolf shifters and crow tattoos will have you u p all night reading!!
November 28, 2022
loved this 3rd book in Kali James world, it was a gripping page turner that had me in stitches courtesy of her bff goat shifter Riley. Can't wait for the next one!
December 1, 2022
These books have ok characters and plots, but the MC is just not for me - I have very little patience for characters who like to live in ignorance.
December 26, 2022
Good story
Lots of suspense. It really kept me guessing on who/what the bad guys were up to. Can't wait to read what happens next.
Lots of suspense. It really kept me guessing on who/what the bad guys were up to. Can't wait to read what happens next.
December 30, 2022
Gripping supernatural fantasy.
Great characters with wonderful intertwined plots set in our world with a supernatural twist. Roll on book four! Unputdownable read!
Great characters with wonderful intertwined plots set in our world with a supernatural twist. Roll on book four! Unputdownable read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews