What do you think?
Rate this book
Hex #1
50 Ways to Hex Your Lover
Jazz cant decide whether to scorch him with a fireball or jump into bed with him
Jasmine Tremaine, a witch who cant stay out of trouble
Nikolai Gregorivich, a drop-dead gorgeous vampire cop on the trail of a serial killer
The sizzling love affair between Jazz and Nick has been off-again-on-again-for about 300 years. Mostly off, lately. But now Nick needs Jazzs help, and while Jazz and Nick try to figure out their own hearts and resist their ever-increasing attraction, they must steer clear of a maniacal killer with super-supernatural powers. They are surrounded by a hilarious cast of oddball paranormal characters, including Norma, the chain-smoking ghost who haunts Jazzs sports car, Dweezil, her ghoul of a boss, and Fluff and Puff, a pair of bunny slippers with sharp teeth and short tempers (watch your ankles!).
Jasmine Tremaine, a witch who cant stay out of trouble
Nikolai Gregorivich, a drop-dead gorgeous vampire cop on the trail of a serial killer
The sizzling love affair between Jazz and Nick has been off-again-on-again-for about 300 years. Mostly off, lately. But now Nick needs Jazzs help, and while Jazz and Nick try to figure out their own hearts and resist their ever-increasing attraction, they must steer clear of a maniacal killer with super-supernatural powers. They are surrounded by a hilarious cast of oddball paranormal characters, including Norma, the chain-smoking ghost who haunts Jazzs sports car, Dweezil, her ghoul of a boss, and Fluff and Puff, a pair of bunny slippers with sharp teeth and short tempers (watch your ankles!).
376 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2008
113 people are currently reading
5530 people want to read
About the author
Linda Wisdom
82 books432 followersI'm a multi-published author since 1979 and now writing paranormal romance or what I like to call witch lit. 50 Ways to Hex Your Lover came out this past March and Hex Appeal comes out in November with Halloween promotion and will also be carried in Target.
My witch series has also been optioned to be shopped around as a TV series or movie. So here's hoping!
My witch series has also been optioned to be shopped around as a TV series or movie. So here's hoping!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 400 reviews
October 18, 2010
I have never found a funny paranormal romance series that I like. "Funny" in PNR apparently means stupid, eye-rolling humor that I imagine very few people actually find amusing. Why do I keep picking them up, you ask? Because the covers are so frickin' cute! I'm a sucker for good cover art, always believing that the books will be just as enticing as those adorable covers. (I mean c'mon, look at the cover on this one! Spunky witch driving a convertible with her black fanged cat? I'll take two, please!)
I didn't particularly care for the main character, Jazz, who had a highly annoying internal dialogue that consisted of things like, "Eeeewwww." (Very interesting, eh?) The POV frequently switches between Jazz and Nick without warning, and I found myself going back to reread sentences so I could figure out who was narrating. Sometimes I couldn't even tell.
Nick wasn't very interesting or likable to me. I liked that they had so much history together, but it's randomly referred to throughout the story in such a disjointed way that the reader never gets a good sense of what has happened. They've apparently had many issues in the past which seem to have arisen simply because they couldn't sit down and talk things out. (Least favorite romance novel cliche.)
The pacing is horrible. The first few hundred pages, nothing happens. No, really. Jazz runs around doing some "witchy" things while trying to avoid seeing Nick. And that's it. Even when they do get down to talking about the missing vampires, the conversation takes about a quarter of a page.
The sex scenes were very dull. I actually flipped past them. Part of it was the writing (FYI, Ms. Wisdom, "labia" is not a sexy word), and part of it was that I didn't like the relationship between Nick and Jazz, nor did I find it believable.
The cover art also confuses me, because there is not a cat in the story. While this is hardly the author's fault, and most likely beyond her control, it annoys me when the cover blatantly contradicts the novel. (I'm very worked up about cover art today for some strange reason.)
Anyway, a major disappointment. Will not be reading anything further from this author.
I actually would have liked this better if her roommate Krebs had been the love interest.
I didn't particularly care for the main character, Jazz, who had a highly annoying internal dialogue that consisted of things like, "Eeeewwww." (Very interesting, eh?) The POV frequently switches between Jazz and Nick without warning, and I found myself going back to reread sentences so I could figure out who was narrating. Sometimes I couldn't even tell.
Nick wasn't very interesting or likable to me. I liked that they had so much history together, but it's randomly referred to throughout the story in such a disjointed way that the reader never gets a good sense of what has happened. They've apparently had many issues in the past which seem to have arisen simply because they couldn't sit down and talk things out. (Least favorite romance novel cliche.)
The pacing is horrible. The first few hundred pages, nothing happens. No, really. Jazz runs around doing some "witchy" things while trying to avoid seeing Nick. And that's it. Even when they do get down to talking about the missing vampires, the conversation takes about a quarter of a page.
The sex scenes were very dull. I actually flipped past them. Part of it was the writing (FYI, Ms. Wisdom, "labia" is not a sexy word), and part of it was that I didn't like the relationship between Nick and Jazz, nor did I find it believable.
The cover art also confuses me, because there is not a cat in the story. While this is hardly the author's fault, and most likely beyond her control, it annoys me when the cover blatantly contradicts the novel. (I'm very worked up about cover art today for some strange reason.)
Anyway, a major disappointment. Will not be reading anything further from this author.
I actually would have liked this better if her roommate Krebs had been the love interest.
April 9, 2018
At about a quarter in, I was worried-enough about what I thought would be the main couple that I went looking at summaries for the other books in the series. I mean, I wanted to make sure that I'd pegged the main couple correctly and that Jazz wasn't going to blow it with her emotional outbursts. I mean, anyone who can stay under magical indictment for 700 years has an obviously short fuse and is prone to short-term myopia. And that's when I found that the series isn't about Jazz and that each book is a different witch in their cursed class. And since I was reading this as a potential series to sink into, I crashed. Serves me right for kibitzing the author...
So the rating is based on that first quarter and that Jazz was such a powder keg of irrational idiocy. I kind of liked Nikolai, but that turned out to be a detriment when Jazz kept being so over-reactiony about him. There's potential there, or I wouldn't have been looking to confirm my impulse to keep reading. But not enough to overcome my disappointment that the series isn't more of Nikolai...
So the rating is based on that first quarter and that Jazz was such a powder keg of irrational idiocy. I kind of liked Nikolai, but that turned out to be a detriment when Jazz kept being so over-reactiony about him. There's potential there, or I wouldn't have been looking to confirm my impulse to keep reading. But not enough to overcome my disappointment that the series isn't more of Nikolai...
April 11, 2011
2.5/5 but it was FREE, so that's cool.
This book could have been really good. As it is, it's just Okay.
The title has nothing to do with the story, other than a late library book. Yes, I said library book.
Jazz {Griet} is very selfish, bitchy and although sometimes she made me laugh, I was more irritated than anything else.
Nick could have been very cool. As it was, he just took whatever Jazz thew at him and was all "Ok, I'll just come back when you're ready" even though my vampire friends are missing, I'll just go sit here like a good boy and wait for you to be ready to assist me.
The plot? Pretty much happened off stage. I would have liked (OK liked may not be the right word here..lol) I would have liked to have heard (in more graphic detail) what happened in 1932 at Clive's mansion to Jazz.
Oop's a main side character dies, and do we see Nick care? not really. Um, I think he should have been way more upset, but that's just me. I guess sex is a cure all.
Overall, it was OK. It was too long in parts, boring in others, and funny at times. The side characters fluff and puff were awesome and I would have liked to see them expounded on more.
This book could have been really good. As it is, it's just Okay.
The title has nothing to do with the story, other than a late library book. Yes, I said library book.
Jazz {Griet} is very selfish, bitchy and although sometimes she made me laugh, I was more irritated than anything else.
Nick could have been very cool. As it was, he just took whatever Jazz thew at him and was all "Ok, I'll just come back when you're ready" even though my vampire friends are missing, I'll just go sit here like a good boy and wait for you to be ready to assist me.
The plot? Pretty much happened off stage. I would have liked (OK liked may not be the right word here..lol) I would have liked to have heard (in more graphic detail) what happened in 1932 at Clive's mansion to Jazz.
Oop's a main side character dies, and do we see Nick care? not really. Um, I think he should have been way more upset, but that's just me. I guess sex is a cure all.
Overall, it was OK. It was too long in parts, boring in others, and funny at times. The side characters fluff and puff were awesome and I would have liked to see them expounded on more.
December 9, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up
Hex #1 Jazz can't decide whether to scorch him with a fireball or jump into bed with him. Jasmine Tremaine - a witch who cannot stay out of trouble. Nikolai Gregorivich - a drop dead gorgeous vampire cop on the trail of a serial killer. The sizzling love affair between Jazz and Nick has been off-again, on-again for about 300 years. Mostly off lately. But now Nick needs Jazz's help.
What a fun read this was. Jazz is an exiled witch that tries her best to stay within the rules of the banishment.But it's not always easy. Nick is a gorgeous vampire who has been her in-off partner for years. I really liked all of the characters and their quirky ways. The badly behaved slippers, Fluff and Puff, made me laugh out loud.
#KindleFreeBook
Hex #1 Jazz can't decide whether to scorch him with a fireball or jump into bed with him. Jasmine Tremaine - a witch who cannot stay out of trouble. Nikolai Gregorivich - a drop dead gorgeous vampire cop on the trail of a serial killer. The sizzling love affair between Jazz and Nick has been off-again, on-again for about 300 years. Mostly off lately. But now Nick needs Jazz's help.
What a fun read this was. Jazz is an exiled witch that tries her best to stay within the rules of the banishment.But it's not always easy. Nick is a gorgeous vampire who has been her in-off partner for years. I really liked all of the characters and their quirky ways. The badly behaved slippers, Fluff and Puff, made me laugh out loud.
#KindleFreeBook
October 2, 2015
This review was originally posted on One Curvy Blogger
I always say that three star reads are the ones that make give me the worst book slumps . . . I say this because it's true. I know a lot of you are shaking your heads and thinking, why the hell would a book with a good rating give you a worst slump then, say, a one star read? Or a DNF? I can explain. A three star read is an “okay” book, a book that I liked but didn’t love. It’s a book that is so freaking hard to review because you can’t find anything overly positive or negative to say, so you wind up saying, “It’s a good book. I liked it. You might, too.” Not exactly an exciting book to review, because it wasn’t very exciting to read, either.With 50 Ways to Hex Your Lover, I had this problem. The funny thing is, I’ve read this one before. I loved it years ago, and now that I read it again, I can see that I’ve grown more critical and chooser as a reader. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it sure did give me a slump.
3 Reasons 50 Ways to Hex Your Lover Didn't Wow Me
I’ve seen it all before. I’ve been reading for over half my life already (a feat since I’m 19. Lol), and obsessing over romance for a few years less, so it can be hard to find authors unique to their genre. I usually don’t have a problem when the writing is excellent enough to keep my attention, but in terms of 50 Ways to Hex Your Lover, it was only ordinary. Nothing new.
It left me feeling incomplete. The odd thing is, it didn’t even end with a cliffhanger! (P.S. I hate cliffhangers.) Wisdom just didn’t give me the closure I needed for some of the conflict she gave the story. FYI: If you write in a conflict, you need a solution. I know a lot of authors just leave it for the sequel, but it feels like she just forgot a few key elements.
I wasn’t enamored with the main characters. I liked Jazz well enough, and Nick is . . . slowly growing on me, but none of them were that interesting. Jazz seemed like this feisty, strong character that wouldn’t allow anybody to walk all over her, but anytime Nick is around her vag makes all the decision and she ends up hurt. WHY DO YOU DO THIS TO ME? YOU DON’T NEED HIM AND IT’S ANNOYING AS FUCK TO WATCH HIM TREAT YOU TERRIBLY. Wisdom winds up redeeming Nick’s character a bit at the end, but I’m still not happy with him. Perhaps he’ll grow up, in the next book, but I’m not counting on it.
The two things that saved this book for me were the cute, adorable, man-eating slippers, Fluff and Puff (where do I find some? Anybody know?), and the sex is deliciously hot. For all Nick and Jazz’s fault, they make yummy whoopee. ;)
All-in-all not a terribly enthusiastic read, but I’ve picked up the next book in the series in the hopes that it redeems the Hex series for me.
May 30, 2008
I liked "50 Ways to Hex Your Lover". The heroine, Jasmine, was someone I would love to go partying with, and the hero, Nikolai, was one hot vamp.
Jazz and Nik have a long history, 300 years or so worth. The problem is he keeps having her arrested, and then says he's only doing it to keep her safe! Jazz decided 30 years ago...No more Nik. So what the heck is her doing here now, and why is he asking for her help? Turns out an evil they thought they had eradicated in 1932 managed to get away, and it's apparently up to Nik and Jazz to do the job right this time.
I'm pretty sure this is my first Linda Wisdom book. I did enjoy reading about Jazz and Nik and would definately pick up another book about this interesting duo. But, I was definately left with questions about their relationship. Was Nik waiting for Jazz to grow more powerful? How can they really have a relationship is her blood is poison to his kind? Why is the Witches Council loaded with bitches? Why did Nik leave the Protectorate?
Anyway, I'm hoping there is another Nik and Jazz book so I can have my questions answered, but I still had a good time reading this one.
*****GOOD NEWS! "Hex Appeal" with Jazz and Nik is scheduled for a Nov08 release!!
Jazz and Nik have a long history, 300 years or so worth. The problem is he keeps having her arrested, and then says he's only doing it to keep her safe! Jazz decided 30 years ago...No more Nik. So what the heck is her doing here now, and why is he asking for her help? Turns out an evil they thought they had eradicated in 1932 managed to get away, and it's apparently up to Nik and Jazz to do the job right this time.
I'm pretty sure this is my first Linda Wisdom book. I did enjoy reading about Jazz and Nik and would definately pick up another book about this interesting duo. But, I was definately left with questions about their relationship. Was Nik waiting for Jazz to grow more powerful? How can they really have a relationship is her blood is poison to his kind? Why is the Witches Council loaded with bitches? Why did Nik leave the Protectorate?
Anyway, I'm hoping there is another Nik and Jazz book so I can have my questions answered, but I still had a good time reading this one.
*****GOOD NEWS! "Hex Appeal" with Jazz and Nik is scheduled for a Nov08 release!!
June 19, 2018
1st read 2014 - *****
2nd read 2018 - **** Didn't love it as much the 2nd time around. A lot of the scenes seemed too long, Jazz's inner dialogue was repetitive and it got annoying quick.
2nd read 2018 - **** Didn't love it as much the 2nd time around. A lot of the scenes seemed too long, Jazz's inner dialogue was repetitive and it got annoying quick.
June 8, 2010
50 ways to Hex Your Lover is a hilarious first novel in the Jazz Tremaine series by Linda Wisdom.
The past few weeks, I was into Paranormal Romance & Paranormal Chick-lit. I came across this book after reading Would-Be Witch (A Southern Witch Novel, #1) by Kimberly Frost(which I loved!) After loving that book, I was afraid I would be disappointed with whatever I read next in that genre, but I was surprised. I really enjoyed it. And if your thinking, well if I enjoyed it so much, why did you give it only 4 moons? It wasn't because it was a bad book, or bad writing. It was in fact the opposite. It had such good potential, and could have been a favorite series of mine. But I found it lacking in some way, to make it great. There's nothing wrong with the book or the characters. I found I really liked them, they were hilarious and written great for their parts. I guess with just a bit more action(or a bit tighter plot) it just could have been a fantastic urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance, instead of a pretty good Paranormal Romance.
Jasmine is upbeat and full of spunk. She's a unique character, that at times can be hilarious and at others, down right mean. But this witch, (I didn't mention she's a witch did I? Well, she is)
Jasmine is a witch that was banished from the Witches’ Academy for close to 7 centuries with a 12 of her classmates/friends, Ever since, she had to make her way in the human world without help. With each offense comes time added to her banishment, and ofcourse the Council is more than happy to remind her. When she's not banishing curses as a witch she's also a Limo-Driver for Dweezil(a creature, that Jaz cannot figure out). She drives a classic T-Bird, that was cursed many years ago with a ghost named Irma inside, now she's stuck with a retro ghost, that even as great of a witch she is, will not be poofed away.
On to the good stuff. Nikolai Gregorivic, the handsome vampire who's been in her life forever, but has been out of the picture of a few decades, only to roll on back into Jaz's life in seek of her help.
Vampires are gone missing, and being a vampire type cop, Nick is in charge but to get the job done, need's a certain witch's help. But it's not as easy as he thought. Jaz's last encounter with Nick was less than pleasant, and she won't be having anymore of that.
If Jaz is so easy to dismiss Nick, I'll have em! ;)
One thing that disappointed me was how she treats Irma most of the time. She's not down right mean, but she's pretty rude and grumpy to someone that can't help her situation. And I'm glad this is a adult book and not a YA book, because I wouldn't want to show that acting that way towards others is okay. BUT, I understand it's just her spunky attitude, and I really do like her. It just bothered me a bit...
All in all, it was a pretty great book, at times, my attention strayed, but I have a feeling the next book in the series may be better! Will I be reading the second book in the series? I will. I may not for a week or two, but I will. It was a really fun read, and I'm glad I picked it up. I would recommend it, but not to folks new to the paranormal romance genre.
The past few weeks, I was into Paranormal Romance & Paranormal Chick-lit. I came across this book after reading Would-Be Witch (A Southern Witch Novel, #1) by Kimberly Frost(which I loved!) After loving that book, I was afraid I would be disappointed with whatever I read next in that genre, but I was surprised. I really enjoyed it. And if your thinking, well if I enjoyed it so much, why did you give it only 4 moons? It wasn't because it was a bad book, or bad writing. It was in fact the opposite. It had such good potential, and could have been a favorite series of mine. But I found it lacking in some way, to make it great. There's nothing wrong with the book or the characters. I found I really liked them, they were hilarious and written great for their parts. I guess with just a bit more action(or a bit tighter plot) it just could have been a fantastic urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance, instead of a pretty good Paranormal Romance.
Jasmine is upbeat and full of spunk. She's a unique character, that at times can be hilarious and at others, down right mean. But this witch, (I didn't mention she's a witch did I? Well, she is)
Jasmine is a witch that was banished from the Witches’ Academy for close to 7 centuries with a 12 of her classmates/friends, Ever since, she had to make her way in the human world without help. With each offense comes time added to her banishment, and ofcourse the Council is more than happy to remind her. When she's not banishing curses as a witch she's also a Limo-Driver for Dweezil(a creature, that Jaz cannot figure out). She drives a classic T-Bird, that was cursed many years ago with a ghost named Irma inside, now she's stuck with a retro ghost, that even as great of a witch she is, will not be poofed away.
On to the good stuff. Nikolai Gregorivic, the handsome vampire who's been in her life forever, but has been out of the picture of a few decades, only to roll on back into Jaz's life in seek of her help.
Vampires are gone missing, and being a vampire type cop, Nick is in charge but to get the job done, need's a certain witch's help. But it's not as easy as he thought. Jaz's last encounter with Nick was less than pleasant, and she won't be having anymore of that.
If Jaz is so easy to dismiss Nick, I'll have em! ;)
One thing that disappointed me was how she treats Irma most of the time. She's not down right mean, but she's pretty rude and grumpy to someone that can't help her situation. And I'm glad this is a adult book and not a YA book, because I wouldn't want to show that acting that way towards others is okay. BUT, I understand it's just her spunky attitude, and I really do like her. It just bothered me a bit...
All in all, it was a pretty great book, at times, my attention strayed, but I have a feeling the next book in the series may be better! Will I be reading the second book in the series? I will. I may not for a week or two, but I will. It was a really fun read, and I'm glad I picked it up. I would recommend it, but not to folks new to the paranormal romance genre.
Want to read
April 8, 2011This book is currently FREE on Kindle. I haven't read it yet but a review will be posted once I get to it. But it may not still be free by then...
This may not last long. Get it HERE
This may not last long. Get it HERE
November 16, 2024
First in the Jazz Tremaine hysterically funny paranormal-romance revolving around a witch with an attitude.
My Take
There is a God! This is only the first in a too, too funny series and it makes me so happy. Yeah, yeah, yeah, so I'm easy… Loved that wallmail! Then there's that ringtone…!
Think about it, the girls were banished in 1313 to only the powers they had. They had 100 years to make up for their behavior---time would be added on for bad behavior---and most of 'em are still not redeemed in 2007.
Okay, Nick seems like a gorgeous, fun guy...when he's not making life decisions arbitrarily for Jazz. But, Wisdom has made it too easy for them to get back together.
Wisdom does a great job of creating a story in which you don't feel as though you've walked into a blip in their lives. It stands on its own and, yet, when you get to the end you find yourself hoping that this is just the beginning. She has some great characters---I don't object to characters with issues, and god knows Jazz has issues, but at least she's not stupid! Oh yeah, I am definitely jealous that Jazz can eat anything she likes...bitch.
The Story
Just when Jazz thinks she's got her life under control. Great house, great roommate. Fluff and Puff haven't eaten anyone lately. Then Nick comes back into her life. It's been thirty-five years and still not long enough. She wants him out. She does not want to hear what he has to say. Every time she lets herself get sucked back in, he always ends up screwing her over. And not in the good way!
But Nick isn't a quitter and he has so missed Jazz. Besides he really needs her help on this job. If he can just pry her away from driving for Dweezil and wandering the midway. So many vampires have gone missing that even the Protectorate is sitting up and taking notice. Hmph, Nick's only been trying to get their attention for about a hundred years…!
It's busy, busy, busy with Dweezil thinking he's cursed, a nightmare from Jazz's past haunting her, Foulshadow after her, Irma chitter-chattering away in her ear, Flavius has gone missing, and Nick is badly straining her control---she knows Mother Nature is gonna be on her ass.
Don't get on Jazz's bad side...she has a way of making her...annoyance felt.
The Characters
Jazz Tremaine, a.k.a., Griet of village of Ardglass, was banished for 100 years in 1313 along with 12 other student witches for casting a curse on a human. Hey, the human deserved it! Still, rules are rules and all 13 girls are cast out to make their own way in the world. Fluff and Puff are her anything-eating bunny slippers---they've already been banned from a number of venues.
Irma is a ghost of a 1950s-era Nebraska housewife who cursed herself to haunt her husband's new T-bird when she committed suicide in it after catching him with another woman. Jazz sometimes wonders if having to put up with Irma and her constant chatter is worth driving her cool, cool, car.
Krebs, a.k.a., Jonathan Shaw the Third, is the human from whom she rents the third floor of his house. Not lovers, but friends, Krebs knows all about her witchy self. He's a geek creating websites for vamps.
Nikolai Gregorivich, a.k.a., Nick Gregory these days, is a vampire working alone these days. He met Griet in Venice one night hundreds of years ago. Back in the day when he worked for the Protectorate, they always provided him with the cover of a law enforcement official. Flavius is his sire and still working for the Protectorate; in his mortal life, he had served as a Consul of Rome. Rowena is a vampire who runs a halfway house for fledgling vamps.
Jazz supplements her curse-breaking income by driving for Dweezil Quix's All Creatures Limo Service…and Wisdom ain't kiddin'...it is all creatures! Mindy is an elf working for Dweezil as a receptionist. She doesn't seem to mind his varied collection of erotica and vintage sex toys. Tyge Foulshadow is...well, we don't know what he is. We just know he pants after Jazz and will pay way over the top to have her as his driver for the times he leaves his home.
Murphy and his bear. Movie star Clive Reeves just keeps coming back...like a very bad dream. Detective Larkin has a bad attitude and is channeling Raymond Chandler. He doesn't seem to like Jazz.
Eurydice is the headmistress for The Academy for Witches and she's on the Witches' High Council as well. Allene is her sister. Zafira and Kabira are also on the Council.
The Librarian---be sure to pronounce "the" properly or you'll never get in!---operates the The Library, a repository for absolutely everything written or drawn about magic.
Stasia Romanov and Blair Fitzpatrick are two of her fellow banishees. Once a month they gather at Moonstone Lake for ritual and centering. I am way envious of how easily they change the color of their nail polish! Lili is another.
The Cover
It's a cartoon cover with a purple and orange sunset behind a silhouetted city skyline fronted by a very peaky snow-covered hill topped with trees in full autumn foliage with a tilted coffin in front of that and a witchy, skull-ring-wearing Jazz cruising in her T-bird with a black cat in the back seat. I must confess, I would have thought Fluff and Puff would be in her back seat munching down on the upholstery…? You will enjoy the bat flying in the sky next to that crescent moon. Too bad there's no witch flying by on a broomstick.
The title about Nick's maddening actions that has Jazz looking for 50 Ways to Hex Your Lover, a book that was w-a-a-a-a-y overdue at The Library.
My Take
There is a God! This is only the first in a too, too funny series and it makes me so happy. Yeah, yeah, yeah, so I'm easy… Loved that wallmail! Then there's that ringtone…!
Think about it, the girls were banished in 1313 to only the powers they had. They had 100 years to make up for their behavior---time would be added on for bad behavior---and most of 'em are still not redeemed in 2007.
Okay, Nick seems like a gorgeous, fun guy...when he's not making life decisions arbitrarily for Jazz. But, Wisdom has made it too easy for them to get back together.
The last time I had PMS a roast chicken popped out of the oven and danced the Macarena
Wisdom does a great job of creating a story in which you don't feel as though you've walked into a blip in their lives. It stands on its own and, yet, when you get to the end you find yourself hoping that this is just the beginning. She has some great characters---I don't object to characters with issues, and god knows Jazz has issues, but at least she's not stupid! Oh yeah, I am definitely jealous that Jazz can eat anything she likes...bitch.
When the Wizard was passing out brains did any of you ever think about standing in line to get one?
He made Star Trek's greedy Ferengi look like spendthrifts.
The Story
Just when Jazz thinks she's got her life under control. Great house, great roommate. Fluff and Puff haven't eaten anyone lately. Then Nick comes back into her life. It's been thirty-five years and still not long enough. She wants him out. She does not want to hear what he has to say. Every time she lets herself get sucked back in, he always ends up screwing her over. And not in the good way!
But Nick isn't a quitter and he has so missed Jazz. Besides he really needs her help on this job. If he can just pry her away from driving for Dweezil and wandering the midway. So many vampires have gone missing that even the Protectorate is sitting up and taking notice. Hmph, Nick's only been trying to get their attention for about a hundred years…!
It's busy, busy, busy with Dweezil thinking he's cursed, a nightmare from Jazz's past haunting her, Foulshadow after her, Irma chitter-chattering away in her ear, Flavius has gone missing, and Nick is badly straining her control---she knows Mother Nature is gonna be on her ass.
Don't get on Jazz's bad side...she has a way of making her...annoyance felt.
The Characters
Jazz Tremaine, a.k.a., Griet of village of Ardglass, was banished for 100 years in 1313 along with 12 other student witches for casting a curse on a human. Hey, the human deserved it! Still, rules are rules and all 13 girls are cast out to make their own way in the world. Fluff and Puff are her anything-eating bunny slippers---they've already been banned from a number of venues.
Irma is a ghost of a 1950s-era Nebraska housewife who cursed herself to haunt her husband's new T-bird when she committed suicide in it after catching him with another woman. Jazz sometimes wonders if having to put up with Irma and her constant chatter is worth driving her cool, cool, car.
Krebs, a.k.a., Jonathan Shaw the Third, is the human from whom she rents the third floor of his house. Not lovers, but friends, Krebs knows all about her witchy self. He's a geek creating websites for vamps.
Nikolai Gregorivich, a.k.a., Nick Gregory these days, is a vampire working alone these days. He met Griet in Venice one night hundreds of years ago. Back in the day when he worked for the Protectorate, they always provided him with the cover of a law enforcement official. Flavius is his sire and still working for the Protectorate; in his mortal life, he had served as a Consul of Rome. Rowena is a vampire who runs a halfway house for fledgling vamps.
Jazz supplements her curse-breaking income by driving for Dweezil Quix's All Creatures Limo Service…and Wisdom ain't kiddin'...it is all creatures! Mindy is an elf working for Dweezil as a receptionist. She doesn't seem to mind his varied collection of erotica and vintage sex toys. Tyge Foulshadow is...well, we don't know what he is. We just know he pants after Jazz and will pay way over the top to have her as his driver for the times he leaves his home.
Murphy and his bear. Movie star Clive Reeves just keeps coming back...like a very bad dream. Detective Larkin has a bad attitude and is channeling Raymond Chandler. He doesn't seem to like Jazz.
Eurydice is the headmistress for The Academy for Witches and she's on the Witches' High Council as well. Allene is her sister. Zafira and Kabira are also on the Council.
The Librarian---be sure to pronounce "the" properly or you'll never get in!---operates the The Library, a repository for absolutely everything written or drawn about magic.
Stasia Romanov and Blair Fitzpatrick are two of her fellow banishees. Once a month they gather at Moonstone Lake for ritual and centering. I am way envious of how easily they change the color of their nail polish! Lili is another.
The Cover
It's a cartoon cover with a purple and orange sunset behind a silhouetted city skyline fronted by a very peaky snow-covered hill topped with trees in full autumn foliage with a tilted coffin in front of that and a witchy, skull-ring-wearing Jazz cruising in her T-bird with a black cat in the back seat. I must confess, I would have thought Fluff and Puff would be in her back seat munching down on the upholstery…? You will enjoy the bat flying in the sky next to that crescent moon. Too bad there's no witch flying by on a broomstick.
The title about Nick's maddening actions that has Jazz looking for 50 Ways to Hex Your Lover, a book that was w-a-a-a-a-y overdue at The Library.
July 2, 2016
Linda Wisdom, aka Linda Randall Wisdom, is one of those authors who, after reading a couple of her books, I began collecting everything I could find of hers. I've had this book on my Kindle app since 2011, but hadn't gotten around to reading it, partly because I just so much prefer to read a physical book over digital, and partly because I was just a tiny bit put off by the book being a paranormal romance. For awhile that's all I was reading and I got a little burned out on the genre, especially vampires, and I just sorta thought to myself that everyone seemed to be jumping on the paranormal bandwagon. But a few days ago I found myself away from home with some time on my hands and no book, so I resorted to the reading on my phone. And wow, am I kicking myself now for not reading this sooner. I should've known that Ms. Wisdom would not disappoint me!
Jazz is a “young” witch, who was banished from the witch realm in 1313, along with twelve of her classmates at The Academy for Witches, for a period of one hundred years. Initially, one hundred years. Every time she uses magic in a way the Witches' High Council does not approve of, additional time is added to her banishment. Fast forward to 2007, where Jazz earns her living as a curse eliminator, and a limo driver for a service that caters to all things inhuman. She has a human roommate who is her best friend, a pair of vicious bunny slippers named Fluff and Puff who eat anything they can get a hold of, and a 1956 convertible she shares with the former owner's dead wife, Irma, a ghost who is cursed to remain in the car – the one curse Jazz has not been able to figure out how to eliminate.
Then there's Nick, the vampire she loves to hate. They've had a very on again off again relationship for centuries. Now he's in town, investigating the disappearances of vampires, and he wants Jazz to help him.
With Jazz and Nick, Ms. Wisdom has created an interesting world of witches, vampires, dwarves, and other assorted creatures. Jazz is a fun and lively character, and as she goes about her day we learn bits and pieces about her magical powers and that interesting world I just mentioned, without the author ever having to info dump on us. Jazz spends much of the first part of the book bantering with Irma and her roommate, Krebs, and trying to avoid talking to Nick. But eventually she finds herself drawn into his investigation, as well as into his arms. I loved them together, talking, arguing, fighting. I also loved the chattering snarly bunny slippers, and I hope Krebs will be in future books as well. I'd love to learn more about him. The only parts I didn't love were the sex scenes, especially one where Nick does something with his mind that made it a little over the top. Their lovemaking could have happened off page and I don't think it would have bothered me at all. And why is there a black cat on the cover picture? Since there wasn't one in the book, unless I missed it somehow.
A bouncy, fun, but not overly light or cutesy book. I look forward to continuing with this series.
Review first posted on my blog.
Jazz is a “young” witch, who was banished from the witch realm in 1313, along with twelve of her classmates at The Academy for Witches, for a period of one hundred years. Initially, one hundred years. Every time she uses magic in a way the Witches' High Council does not approve of, additional time is added to her banishment. Fast forward to 2007, where Jazz earns her living as a curse eliminator, and a limo driver for a service that caters to all things inhuman. She has a human roommate who is her best friend, a pair of vicious bunny slippers named Fluff and Puff who eat anything they can get a hold of, and a 1956 convertible she shares with the former owner's dead wife, Irma, a ghost who is cursed to remain in the car – the one curse Jazz has not been able to figure out how to eliminate.
Then there's Nick, the vampire she loves to hate. They've had a very on again off again relationship for centuries. Now he's in town, investigating the disappearances of vampires, and he wants Jazz to help him.
With Jazz and Nick, Ms. Wisdom has created an interesting world of witches, vampires, dwarves, and other assorted creatures. Jazz is a fun and lively character, and as she goes about her day we learn bits and pieces about her magical powers and that interesting world I just mentioned, without the author ever having to info dump on us. Jazz spends much of the first part of the book bantering with Irma and her roommate, Krebs, and trying to avoid talking to Nick. But eventually she finds herself drawn into his investigation, as well as into his arms. I loved them together, talking, arguing, fighting. I also loved the chattering snarly bunny slippers, and I hope Krebs will be in future books as well. I'd love to learn more about him. The only parts I didn't love were the sex scenes, especially one where Nick does something with his mind that made it a little over the top. Their lovemaking could have happened off page and I don't think it would have bothered me at all. And why is there a black cat on the cover picture? Since there wasn't one in the book, unless I missed it somehow.
A bouncy, fun, but not overly light or cutesy book. I look forward to continuing with this series.
Review first posted on my blog.
April 26, 2018
Fun to read for the most part, so three stars, but I think you really have to be in two moods to enjoy it fully. The cover and the title put me in the mood for a light-hearted, funny ride, and a fair portion of the book was just that, although (1) the title has nothing to do with the story except that the main character is a witch and has fairly graphic sex and (2) the cutely fanged black cat on the cover doesn't exist in the book. But the bad guy is really, really bad, and you have to be in the mood for some really dark, nasty scenes to enjoy his part of the book.
Also, this is one of those books in which the main characters, Jazz the witch and Nick the vampire, pale in comparison to some of the side characters: Irma the proper, gray-haired ghost from the 1950s who's stuck in an old Thunderbird that Jazz inherited and furnishes the book's best dialogues with her; Krebs, who rented his third floor to Jazz four years ago and became her best friend; Dweezil, the unclassifiable skeletal, seven-foot tall, three-armed green proprietor of All Creatures Limo Service who pays Jazz to chauffeur clients who scare other drivers; Tyge Foulshadow, the worst client for both smell and appearance; and most of all Fluff and Puff, Jazz's carnivorous bunny slippers who scuttle around, bite, and talk to each other in an incomprehensible language. These are the characters that provide most of the fun.
In 1313 thirteen girls were banished from the Academy of Witches in Cheshire, England, for a century for cursing a mortal, and their banishment is extended every time they cast a spell "not meant for the greater good." One of them, Griet, who renamed herself Jasmine "Jazz" Tremaine in 1921, keeps getting her banishment extended for that reason, via messages appearing magically on her wall. She has anger issues to put it mildly, and frequently flings fireballs of witchflame when irritated. Nobody irritates her quite like Nikolai Grigorivich, her sometime bedmate and a vampire for 800 years who keeps having her arrested for her own safety; but now Nick enlists Jazz as the only one who can help him figure out for the vampire Protectorate why vampires are disappearing from parties at a certain mansion where Jazz killed someone in 1932. And the adventure is more or less on.
There are stretches without much happening, and the description of the investigation is vague sometimes, but never fear, this adventure will eventually kick into high gear; and when it does, let's hope you're in that other darker mood to enjoy it. In the lighter part of the novel Jazz's witchy powers come across something like Bewitched or Charmed, and it's never very clear what she can & can't do; for me that uncertainty diminished the effect of the heavy part, which I think could have been much more suspenseful if I understood her ability as well as I did Alex Verus's or Harry Dresden's.
Also, this is one of those books in which the main characters, Jazz the witch and Nick the vampire, pale in comparison to some of the side characters: Irma the proper, gray-haired ghost from the 1950s who's stuck in an old Thunderbird that Jazz inherited and furnishes the book's best dialogues with her; Krebs, who rented his third floor to Jazz four years ago and became her best friend; Dweezil, the unclassifiable skeletal, seven-foot tall, three-armed green proprietor of All Creatures Limo Service who pays Jazz to chauffeur clients who scare other drivers; Tyge Foulshadow, the worst client for both smell and appearance; and most of all Fluff and Puff, Jazz's carnivorous bunny slippers who scuttle around, bite, and talk to each other in an incomprehensible language. These are the characters that provide most of the fun.
In 1313 thirteen girls were banished from the Academy of Witches in Cheshire, England, for a century for cursing a mortal, and their banishment is extended every time they cast a spell "not meant for the greater good." One of them, Griet, who renamed herself Jasmine "Jazz" Tremaine in 1921, keeps getting her banishment extended for that reason, via messages appearing magically on her wall. She has anger issues to put it mildly, and frequently flings fireballs of witchflame when irritated. Nobody irritates her quite like Nikolai Grigorivich, her sometime bedmate and a vampire for 800 years who keeps having her arrested for her own safety; but now Nick enlists Jazz as the only one who can help him figure out for the vampire Protectorate why vampires are disappearing from parties at a certain mansion where Jazz killed someone in 1932. And the adventure is more or less on.
There are stretches without much happening, and the description of the investigation is vague sometimes, but never fear, this adventure will eventually kick into high gear; and when it does, let's hope you're in that other darker mood to enjoy it. In the lighter part of the novel Jazz's witchy powers come across something like Bewitched or Charmed, and it's never very clear what she can & can't do; for me that uncertainty diminished the effect of the heavy part, which I think could have been much more suspenseful if I understood her ability as well as I did Alex Verus's or Harry Dresden's.
September 28, 2010
It took too long to get going. There was no interesting romantic relationship development. Some side characters were good.
STORY BRIEF:
Witches, vampires, werewolves, trolls, and other creatures live among humans. Jazz is a witch. She makes a living removing curses and driving a limo. Nick is a vampire who works as a private investigator. Nick and Jazz have had a lustful on and off relationship for about 300 years – mostly off. She frequently gets mad at him. Someone is killing vampires, and Nick wants Jazz to help him solve the problem.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
It took a long time to get going. I was impatient for something to start happening. Nick visited Jazz several times asking for her help. But things kept delaying any action. Jazz had to do this, she had to do that, she kept telling Nick to come back later. This was going on for more than half the book. Finally they started to do something about the killer. Overall it was ok, just not a must read. Don’t expect much relationship development between Jazz and Nick. They knew each other in the past and broke up before this story even started. This is more of a lustful coworker relationship than romance. I had a problem with the title. She was not hexing her lover in different ways. She threw fireballs at him once and missed. That was it. Jazz was an interesting character, but Nick and Krebs could have used something more.
The best parts were the fun and interesting side characters. I loved Fluff and Puff – the bunny slippers with sharp teeth and short tempers. Jazz would keep them in line by lifting her foot. They were afraid of heights.
CAUTION SPOILER:
The ending scene with bad guy Clive could have been better. Jazz and Nick are chained and powerless with Clive standing over them doing harm. Yet Jazz and Nick keep telling Clive they’re going to kill him. These empty threats weren’t doing anything for me.
DATA:
Story length: 364 pages. Swearing language: strong. Sexual language: strong. Number of sex scenes: 6. Estimated number of sex scene pages: 15. Setting: current day mostly Los Angeles, California. Copyright: 2008. Genre: paranormal romance.
STORY BRIEF:
Witches, vampires, werewolves, trolls, and other creatures live among humans. Jazz is a witch. She makes a living removing curses and driving a limo. Nick is a vampire who works as a private investigator. Nick and Jazz have had a lustful on and off relationship for about 300 years – mostly off. She frequently gets mad at him. Someone is killing vampires, and Nick wants Jazz to help him solve the problem.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
It took a long time to get going. I was impatient for something to start happening. Nick visited Jazz several times asking for her help. But things kept delaying any action. Jazz had to do this, she had to do that, she kept telling Nick to come back later. This was going on for more than half the book. Finally they started to do something about the killer. Overall it was ok, just not a must read. Don’t expect much relationship development between Jazz and Nick. They knew each other in the past and broke up before this story even started. This is more of a lustful coworker relationship than romance. I had a problem with the title. She was not hexing her lover in different ways. She threw fireballs at him once and missed. That was it. Jazz was an interesting character, but Nick and Krebs could have used something more.
The best parts were the fun and interesting side characters. I loved Fluff and Puff – the bunny slippers with sharp teeth and short tempers. Jazz would keep them in line by lifting her foot. They were afraid of heights.
CAUTION SPOILER:
The ending scene with bad guy Clive could have been better. Jazz and Nick are chained and powerless with Clive standing over them doing harm. Yet Jazz and Nick keep telling Clive they’re going to kill him. These empty threats weren’t doing anything for me.
DATA:
Story length: 364 pages. Swearing language: strong. Sexual language: strong. Number of sex scenes: 6. Estimated number of sex scene pages: 15. Setting: current day mostly Los Angeles, California. Copyright: 2008. Genre: paranormal romance.
May 14, 2013
Why do I do this to myself? I hated the only other Linda Wisdom book I've read for the same reason I already hate this one: the main character is a spoiled, petulant, childish bitch. We get a vague prologue in which we are vaguely informed bitchy witch "Jazz" was kicked out of Hogwarts 700 years ago, and then vague references throughout the book to Jazz and ex-lover Nick's vaguely checkered past. But Wisdom never bothers to fill in the blanks, other than to make sure we know in excruciating detail what Jazz is wearing, and frankly, I don't care what "horrible" thing Nick did to end things--I'm SURE it was fully justified, and then some. Jazz never met the situation she wouldn't whine about; she's like the drill team princess in high school who did her nails in study hall and complained loudly about how bad she had it and how hard she worked while her nerdy, straight-A lab partner did all her homework for her. Also, Wisdom has to be the only person in the world who thinks a 1956 T-bird is a sports car...with no leg room. SERIOUSLY???
50 Ways was free for the Nook, so I thought I'd give Wisdom another chance, but she hasn't improved. This is the first in a series, and you couldn't pay me to ever read another of Wisdom's trite, clicheed, predictable and bitchy books.
50 Ways was free for the Nook, so I thought I'd give Wisdom another chance, but she hasn't improved. This is the first in a series, and you couldn't pay me to ever read another of Wisdom's trite, clicheed, predictable and bitchy books.
February 20, 2011
If you're into Witches, Vampires && other spooks you may just like this book! It's about a witch who runs into her on again, off again for the past 300 years vampire lover looking for her help with a vampire serial murder case. She has a really witty && sarcastic sense of humor. It can be quiet funny. haha My favorite characters in the books were her bunny slippers Fluff n Puff. For a pair of slippers they get into a lot of trouble && have major anger management issues. lol But if they were to ever really exist I would SO own a pair! lol Then her car is haunted by a ghost who can be a little annoying. Her jobs are also VERY interesting! Lifting hexes && driving a limo for different creatures. One of the creatures being a Java The Hut look alike that produces a very foul odour && has a crush on her. (He's a bit perverted X_X) lol There are many very interesting characters/creatures in this book. I really recommend it if you're into books like this. :)
March 13, 2008
More of a paranormal romantic suspense book rather than parnormal romance. Jaz is a witch, Nick a vampire who've been on again off again team up to find out why vampires are disappearing. A big bad worthy of Buffy, unfortunately the author doesn't expand the character as well as she could have through out the book, however does a nice job of making him truly loathsome when he finally does enter the picture at the end of the book.
Good characters, my favorites were the carnivorous bunny slippers fluff and puff. I want a pair!!
While there are no neat and tidy HEA ending,or cliffhanger this could easily develop into a nice paranormal series, one I would most certainly enjoy.
Good characters, my favorites were the carnivorous bunny slippers fluff and puff. I want a pair!!
While there are no neat and tidy HEA ending,or cliffhanger this could easily develop into a nice paranormal series, one I would most certainly enjoy.
October 4, 2016
This was a really good book. I definitely enjoyed reading it. It's fun, spunky, a little suspenseful, great characters, and written well. I was grabbed and entertained throughout. I did get aggravated, I laughed (several times out loud), held my breath, and had a great time. Can't wait to read more and see what happens. Enjoy!
May 6, 2024
3.5 ⭐️'s
February 29, 2012
This book was such a fun book to read! I loved all the comedy in it, especially the fluffy slippers!
Jazz Tremaine is a centuries old witch, working as a curse eliminator in the city. Her old vampire lover, Nick appears on the scene and she throws a few fireballs his way before threatening to stake him. Problem is he still drives her crazy and makes her wants to do naughty things with him! She loves him but also hates him with a passion. However he needs her help desperately and will do anything he can to convince her to help him.
Vampires have been disappearing and he has been hired by the Protectorate, the vampire council, to find out who or what is making them disappear. He asks Jazz for her help which she does reluctantly at first as she knows getting involved with Nick again is probably not the best idea.
They both soon find out who and it and what he has been doing and this really shocks Jazz and for the first time in years, in decades, she is scared! She has been there before and was lucky to survive and doesn't want to go through hell all over again, but in order to help Nick, the vampires and anyone else who might get lured into the trap, she knows she must face this monster once again.
I loved Irma as well, the ghost who died in Jazz's car, who cannot be eradicated for some reason. Jazz has tried and tried to get rid of her with hundreds of spells but none of them have worked. Lucky for Jazz really as Irma comes in quite handy at the end. Irma's such a fun ghost in this story!
Whilst the main story plot was brilliant and the characters were fun too, I loved the "will they won't they" romance line too. You did really know that Jazz and Nick would end up together but Jazz definitely fought her feelings all the way through the book, trying to deny what she felt for him. I'm so glad she finally gave the romance the chance it deserves.
Looking forward to reading the next one in the series (providing there is one that is - will have to go and find out!)
Jazz Tremaine is a centuries old witch, working as a curse eliminator in the city. Her old vampire lover, Nick appears on the scene and she throws a few fireballs his way before threatening to stake him. Problem is he still drives her crazy and makes her wants to do naughty things with him! She loves him but also hates him with a passion. However he needs her help desperately and will do anything he can to convince her to help him.
Vampires have been disappearing and he has been hired by the Protectorate, the vampire council, to find out who or what is making them disappear. He asks Jazz for her help which she does reluctantly at first as she knows getting involved with Nick again is probably not the best idea.
They both soon find out who and it and what he has been doing and this really shocks Jazz and for the first time in years, in decades, she is scared! She has been there before and was lucky to survive and doesn't want to go through hell all over again, but in order to help Nick, the vampires and anyone else who might get lured into the trap, she knows she must face this monster once again.
I loved Irma as well, the ghost who died in Jazz's car, who cannot be eradicated for some reason. Jazz has tried and tried to get rid of her with hundreds of spells but none of them have worked. Lucky for Jazz really as Irma comes in quite handy at the end. Irma's such a fun ghost in this story!
Whilst the main story plot was brilliant and the characters were fun too, I loved the "will they won't they" romance line too. You did really know that Jazz and Nick would end up together but Jazz definitely fought her feelings all the way through the book, trying to deny what she felt for him. I'm so glad she finally gave the romance the chance it deserves.
Looking forward to reading the next one in the series (providing there is one that is - will have to go and find out!)
April 24, 2012
The one thing I hate about the freebie books on Amazon is that they are always the first in a series so if you liked it, you have to buy the rest of the series!
In "50 Ways to Hex Your Lover", we meet Jazz, a 700-yr-old witch who was kicked out of the witch's school when she was younger, her vampire on-again, off-again lover, Nick, and the ghost that lives in her car, Irma. Nick has asked Jazz to help him track down a person who has been killing vampires, a man Jazz thought she had killed in the 1930s.
Honestly, I was expecting this to be a romantic comedy, however it turned out to be more of an erotic fantasy book. I don't mind sex in my books, but I dislike vulgar words, and this book would have been infinitely better if it had omitted both C words.
The book also makes you feel as though you have jumped into the middle of the series as there is plenty of background information about both Jazz and Nick that you find out in drips and drabs, or not at all. For example, I'd love to know how Jazz came to possess an (entertaining) pair of killer bunny slippers or what she did that got her and her friends kicked out of the witch academy.
Towards the end of the book, we find out in a side comment that both Jazz and Nick have survived the Titanic and other historical events, and in all honesty, I'd be much more interested in reading about those exploits over modern ones!
The writing style reminded me of every other modern chick lit book I've read in the past 12-months, the style that makes me think I could write something better and leaves me wondering why I don't just write something for submission, since some of these publishing houses appear to accept anything!
This Kindle edition had a few typographical errors in it as well, so I really wish they would find someone to proofread the ebooks before they go on sale!
In "50 Ways to Hex Your Lover", we meet Jazz, a 700-yr-old witch who was kicked out of the witch's school when she was younger, her vampire on-again, off-again lover, Nick, and the ghost that lives in her car, Irma. Nick has asked Jazz to help him track down a person who has been killing vampires, a man Jazz thought she had killed in the 1930s.
Honestly, I was expecting this to be a romantic comedy, however it turned out to be more of an erotic fantasy book. I don't mind sex in my books, but I dislike vulgar words, and this book would have been infinitely better if it had omitted both C words.
The book also makes you feel as though you have jumped into the middle of the series as there is plenty of background information about both Jazz and Nick that you find out in drips and drabs, or not at all. For example, I'd love to know how Jazz came to possess an (entertaining) pair of killer bunny slippers or what she did that got her and her friends kicked out of the witch academy.
Towards the end of the book, we find out in a side comment that both Jazz and Nick have survived the Titanic and other historical events, and in all honesty, I'd be much more interested in reading about those exploits over modern ones!
The writing style reminded me of every other modern chick lit book I've read in the past 12-months, the style that makes me think I could write something better and leaves me wondering why I don't just write something for submission, since some of these publishing houses appear to accept anything!
This Kindle edition had a few typographical errors in it as well, so I really wish they would find someone to proofread the ebooks before they go on sale!
April 17, 2011
Downloaded for FREE from http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/50-Way...
To be honest, I wasn’t fussed in this book. There were too many holes in the plot and the storyline was boring for the most part. I admit there were a few parts that were fun and interesting, but most of the time I just wanted the book to be over. It seemed slow and there was too much within it that just seemed pointless; I saw no reason to have to know certain details and some scenes just dragged on. I didn’t feel anything for any of the characters, although Jazz was a spunky gal. However was nothing about either her or Nick that stood out for me and I found it hard to emphasize or sympathise with them when they really meant nothing to me.
I wasn’t too interested in the relationship between Jazz and Nick. I get their history and all, but it seemed like they carried on and on about things and it just wore on my nerves. I never really saw the “spark” that Jazz seemed to believe she had with Nick. To me, theirs was just another relationship. I never saw something between them that made me sit up and think, “Damn, they sure do have chemistry”.
The only real think I liked about this book were Fluff and Puff. Come on, monster bunny slippers that devour anything they can get their hands--ahhh, I mean teeth on--is just cool! It’s unique and I’ve never seem it before. I did think it was funny how Jazz interacted with them and treated them like they were pets. That I liked.
So all in all, kinda pointless. Not a great read, but that’s just me. Others may enjoy this quirky tale, but I guess I can’t complain too much seeing as it was free.....
To be honest, I wasn’t fussed in this book. There were too many holes in the plot and the storyline was boring for the most part. I admit there were a few parts that were fun and interesting, but most of the time I just wanted the book to be over. It seemed slow and there was too much within it that just seemed pointless; I saw no reason to have to know certain details and some scenes just dragged on. I didn’t feel anything for any of the characters, although Jazz was a spunky gal. However was nothing about either her or Nick that stood out for me and I found it hard to emphasize or sympathise with them when they really meant nothing to me.
I wasn’t too interested in the relationship between Jazz and Nick. I get their history and all, but it seemed like they carried on and on about things and it just wore on my nerves. I never really saw the “spark” that Jazz seemed to believe she had with Nick. To me, theirs was just another relationship. I never saw something between them that made me sit up and think, “Damn, they sure do have chemistry”.
The only real think I liked about this book were Fluff and Puff. Come on, monster bunny slippers that devour anything they can get their hands--ahhh, I mean teeth on--is just cool! It’s unique and I’ve never seem it before. I did think it was funny how Jazz interacted with them and treated them like they were pets. That I liked.
So all in all, kinda pointless. Not a great read, but that’s just me. Others may enjoy this quirky tale, but I guess I can’t complain too much seeing as it was free.....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2020
I really like books with witches and vampires that aren't too serious. This book series is perfect for this Coronavirus lockdown.
Jazz is a witch who, along with the other members of her coven, was banished back in 1313 for refusing to admit which one of them screwed up. This book begins Jazz's story and the other books in the series take turns at telling the other witch's stories.
Basically, this is a love story that has spanned 700 centuries but it's not mushy or overly erotic. It's funny and playful as well as moving and frustrating.
However, the best part of the entire book are the living slippers "Huff and Puff" that Jazz owns. These slippers add another element to the story. Also, very interesting is Irma a ghost who "returns" in Jazz's mustang and cannot leave it. She died in the 1950's and her story is just as interesting as Jazz's. Then there is Jazz's vampire lover with whom she has been "on again/off again" through the centuries. He's a bit of a know it all and wants to run Jazz's life but she can more than hold her own.
I hope I have stirred your interest because this book (in fact the entire series) is very entertaining. So if, like me, you're so bored you would read the phone book if they still made them, pick up this series...you won't be disappointed.
Jazz is a witch who, along with the other members of her coven, was banished back in 1313 for refusing to admit which one of them screwed up. This book begins Jazz's story and the other books in the series take turns at telling the other witch's stories.
Basically, this is a love story that has spanned 700 centuries but it's not mushy or overly erotic. It's funny and playful as well as moving and frustrating.
However, the best part of the entire book are the living slippers "Huff and Puff" that Jazz owns. These slippers add another element to the story. Also, very interesting is Irma a ghost who "returns" in Jazz's mustang and cannot leave it. She died in the 1950's and her story is just as interesting as Jazz's. Then there is Jazz's vampire lover with whom she has been "on again/off again" through the centuries. He's a bit of a know it all and wants to run Jazz's life but she can more than hold her own.
I hope I have stirred your interest because this book (in fact the entire series) is very entertaining. So if, like me, you're so bored you would read the phone book if they still made them, pick up this series...you won't be disappointed.
April 24, 2011
Can't believe am about to start another review with a cover rant, but yeah, this one does not do this book justice either! Nor does the title actually, but luckily, 50 Ways to Hex Your Lover by Linda Wisdom was a Kindle Freebie (oh-so-smart-move Publisher Person because now I'm hooked and I will buy the rest of the series), so it was easy to press the 'Buy' button.
This book is black, funny, wry, and felt as 'real' as a supernatural tale can feel in terms of relationships and dialogue. I liked the fact the two protagonists are well-matched, no newbie versus master thing going on here, just a well explained back story (spanning nearly a millennium) that doesn't interfere with a great mystery and some real tension as the nefarious doings of the villain unfolded.
The secondary characters were also great and, while providing light relief, definitely not one dimensional, especially Irma, the ghost very much attached to our heroine's car.
Not really sure why this is classified as 'lite paranormal'. It seemed too developed for that but I give up trying to understand the shades of gray in fantasy sub-genres. Suffice to say, great story, great alternate universe creation, and great characters means I will be snapping up the next three books in the series as soon as possible.
This book is black, funny, wry, and felt as 'real' as a supernatural tale can feel in terms of relationships and dialogue. I liked the fact the two protagonists are well-matched, no newbie versus master thing going on here, just a well explained back story (spanning nearly a millennium) that doesn't interfere with a great mystery and some real tension as the nefarious doings of the villain unfolded.
The secondary characters were also great and, while providing light relief, definitely not one dimensional, especially Irma, the ghost very much attached to our heroine's car.
Not really sure why this is classified as 'lite paranormal'. It seemed too developed for that but I give up trying to understand the shades of gray in fantasy sub-genres. Suffice to say, great story, great alternate universe creation, and great characters means I will be snapping up the next three books in the series as soon as possible.
December 15, 2012
Jazz an exiled witch tries her best to stay within the rules of her banishment. Life keeps throwing things at her that make her lose her patience and release a little more magic than she should. She takes it with a smirk and keeps living. he life is too busy to worry about what she can't change. She has a haunted car, vicious slippers and an ex love that is hotter than...well you know. She also has the stinky-est job ever. * Gross*
Nick the hot vampire who has been her lover for over 300 years has arrived in town and he's not welcome after the way they parted. He is starting a new life and needs Jazz's help and wants her back in his bed. *He is good, really good* it is not easy the hurt runs deep.
There are deaths in the vampire community. The two must work together. This is sometimes funny, and sometimes dangerous. They delve into dangerous dark places and meet some interesting beings.
I enjoyed this paranormal romantic comedy. It was light, funny and had just enough mystery and sexy moments to keep it interesting.
Nick the hot vampire who has been her lover for over 300 years has arrived in town and he's not welcome after the way they parted. He is starting a new life and needs Jazz's help and wants her back in his bed. *He is good, really good* it is not easy the hurt runs deep.
There are deaths in the vampire community. The two must work together. This is sometimes funny, and sometimes dangerous. They delve into dangerous dark places and meet some interesting beings.
I enjoyed this paranormal romantic comedy. It was light, funny and had just enough mystery and sexy moments to keep it interesting.
April 23, 2020
3.5*
I really wanted to give this book 4 stars (and I suppose I did), but it is a 3.5 star book at heart. It isn't original. It has a few very minor grammar issues. It isn't the best written book I have ever read...
...but none of that actually matters because honestly, I thoroughly enjoyed it. There are a lot of negative reviews for this book and whilst it might be cosy paranormal mystery meets mills and boon, who cares? It was light hearted, fun, interesting enough that I wanted to keep reading and see what happened next but not so interesting that I couldn't put it down when I wanted to do something else. It wasn't a true 4 star book, but it was better than a 3 star.
I have read this book before. I would even read it again. At the end of the day, that is all the review a book actually needs. It is worth reading.
I really wanted to give this book 4 stars (and I suppose I did), but it is a 3.5 star book at heart. It isn't original. It has a few very minor grammar issues. It isn't the best written book I have ever read...
...but none of that actually matters because honestly, I thoroughly enjoyed it. There are a lot of negative reviews for this book and whilst it might be cosy paranormal mystery meets mills and boon, who cares? It was light hearted, fun, interesting enough that I wanted to keep reading and see what happened next but not so interesting that I couldn't put it down when I wanted to do something else. It wasn't a true 4 star book, but it was better than a 3 star.
I have read this book before. I would even read it again. At the end of the day, that is all the review a book actually needs. It is worth reading.
April 20, 2011
"50 Ways to Hex Your Lover" at times is a comedy and other times a dark Mystery. It would have been better if the author stuck to the comedy rather than the mystery because together it just did not work for me. This book reveals the violent rape of its' main character, Jazz Tremaine only to poke fun and her on again off again relationship with the love of her life, Nick.
The comedy in this book involves the use of every cliche known to man and at times it worked and at other times it different. If it hadn't been for the rape of the main character, I might have given the story 3 stars but as it stands it would unnecessary to the plot.
Sorry, Linda Wisdom, I am just plain tire of rape thrown about like it is a bad case of hives that you can get over at a minutes notice.
The comedy in this book involves the use of every cliche known to man and at times it worked and at other times it different. If it hadn't been for the rape of the main character, I might have given the story 3 stars but as it stands it would unnecessary to the plot.
Sorry, Linda Wisdom, I am just plain tire of rape thrown about like it is a bad case of hives that you can get over at a minutes notice.
April 28, 2011
I usually prefer a more realistic, down to earth, portrayal of witches (thinking practical magic), but once I first met Jazz and her toothsome slippers Fluff and Puff I was hooked. I love the backstory the author created, love the addition of a ghost sidekick, and think Jazz' dialogue with her car's spectral passenger is witty and funny.
If you like your romantic comedy with a sprinkle of the paranormal, and find vamp heroes yummy, you'll enjoy 50 Ways To Hex Your Lover.
Single caveat — the title doesn't exactly match the story. Based on the title alone, I kind of expected a story about a heroine using a voodoo doll and/or bad ju-ju gris gris to hex her ex. Then again, that is what back cover blurbs are for, laying out the premise for readers. :D
If you like your romantic comedy with a sprinkle of the paranormal, and find vamp heroes yummy, you'll enjoy 50 Ways To Hex Your Lover.
Single caveat — the title doesn't exactly match the story. Based on the title alone, I kind of expected a story about a heroine using a voodoo doll and/or bad ju-ju gris gris to hex her ex. Then again, that is what back cover blurbs are for, laying out the premise for readers. :D
May 12, 2011
There were some parts I liked and some parts I didn't.
I welcomed Jazz as character; she wasn't that sassy/witty witch, in fact, I thought she had anger issue, but it was different than those PNR that I had read. That was something :). I also enjoyed her relationship with her roommate, Krebs.
But most part, the book was just getting nowhere. There was a lot of events that HINTED but never fully explained. I though the super big mystery was with Clive Reeves and the disappearance of vampires, but even until the end I still felt like I was lost.
It was an okay first-book and I didn't hate it. Plus, I rarely read a first book of UF/PNR that I immediately liked anyway. So maybe I would give the second book a try.
I welcomed Jazz as character; she wasn't that sassy/witty witch, in fact, I thought she had anger issue, but it was different than those PNR that I had read. That was something :). I also enjoyed her relationship with her roommate, Krebs.
But most part, the book was just getting nowhere. There was a lot of events that HINTED but never fully explained. I though the super big mystery was with Clive Reeves and the disappearance of vampires, but even until the end I still felt like I was lost.
It was an okay first-book and I didn't hate it. Plus, I rarely read a first book of UF/PNR that I immediately liked anyway. So maybe I would give the second book a try.
September 14, 2012
No Spoilers...
From the get go you knew that this was going to be a paranormal romantic comedy. Everything from the title, to the cover told you that much before you opened the book. It was also light and witty, and has a male lead that I wouldn't mind waving my wand at, yum, yum.
I found this to be a lovely, light and entertaining book to read.
What I didn't like: not a great deal really. The grammar was good with only a couple of hiccups along the way, and those I put down to the formatting of an eBook. I only came across three typos in all, so nothing to really get in the way of the flow of the book.
There was some minor predictability, but it was still a nice read.
Would I recommend it? Yes, if this is what you're looking for.
From the get go you knew that this was going to be a paranormal romantic comedy. Everything from the title, to the cover told you that much before you opened the book. It was also light and witty, and has a male lead that I wouldn't mind waving my wand at, yum, yum.
I found this to be a lovely, light and entertaining book to read.
What I didn't like: not a great deal really. The grammar was good with only a couple of hiccups along the way, and those I put down to the formatting of an eBook. I only came across three typos in all, so nothing to really get in the way of the flow of the book.
There was some minor predictability, but it was still a nice read.
Would I recommend it? Yes, if this is what you're looking for.
September 13, 2011
I liked this book. The main character Jazz is a tough witch who was banished to the mortal realm 700 years ago along with her classmates.
Nick is a very old vampire who is a private investigator. He's also been Jazz's lover for quite a few centuries. Off and on. Mostly off. They are seriously attracted to each other, but aren't always good for each other.
When Nick comes back in to Jazz's life to ask for her help on a case involving missing vampires, they are headed for trouble and each other.
Nick is a very old vampire who is a private investigator. He's also been Jazz's lover for quite a few centuries. Off and on. Mostly off. They are seriously attracted to each other, but aren't always good for each other.
When Nick comes back in to Jazz's life to ask for her help on a case involving missing vampires, they are headed for trouble and each other.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 400 reviews