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Delve into paranormal realms of magic and danger in this anthology of five new stories from New York Times–bestselling authors.Revisiting the worlds they made famous in their wildly popular fiction, authors Kim Harrison, Jeaniene Frost, Vicki Pettersson, and Jocelynn Drake—plus YA author Melissa Marr with her first adult supernatural thriller—unleash their full arsenal of dark talents in Unbound. Each story in this all-new anthology plunged readers into the shadows where the strange forces stalk the unsuspecting . . . and every soul is a target.The pixy Jenks faces a murderous dryad in Kim Harrison’s “Lay Line Drifter”. In “Reckoning”, Jeaniene Frost’s master vampire is out to stop a ghoulish serial killer. “Dark Matters” by Vicki Pettersson explores a superhero’s illicit affair. Savannah’s vampiric Keeper must solve a perplexing murder in “The Dead, the Damned, and the Forgotten”. And in “Two Lines” a woman must contend with her deadly desires or risk a monstrous transformation.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 18, 2009
312 people are currently reading
7486 people want to read
About the author
Kim Harrison
83 books18.8k followersKim Harrison is best known as the author of the New York Times #1 best selling Hollows series, but she has written more than urban fantasy and has published over two-dozen books spanning the gamut from young adult, thriller, several anthologies, and has scripted two original graphic novels. She has also published traditional fantasy under the name Dawn Cook. Kim is currently working on a new Hollows book between other, non related, urban fantasy projects.
Kim reaches out to her audience at Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KimHarrisons...
Instagram
https://instagram.com/kim_harrison_au...
and her blog http://kimharrison.wordpress.com/
other pseudonyms: Dawn Cook
Kim reaches out to her audience at Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KimHarrisons...
https://instagram.com/kim_harrison_au...
and her blog http://kimharrison.wordpress.com/
other pseudonyms: Dawn Cook
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 380 reviews
April 13, 2021
I read this only for Ley Line Drifter by Kim Harrison because I'm on a re-read roll.
That being said, I really enjoyed spending time with Jenks, his family, and a little adventure with the rest of the team.
Dryads are a nightmare. :)
Also, it lays to rest the speculation about whether the pixies know about the other special qualities of a certain cursed potion. I think all of these extras are necessary on the read-through, honestly. The PoVs alone are worth it.
That being said, I really enjoyed spending time with Jenks, his family, and a little adventure with the rest of the team.
Dryads are a nightmare. :)
Also, it lays to rest the speculation about whether the pixies know about the other special qualities of a certain cursed potion. I think all of these extras are necessary on the read-through, honestly. The PoVs alone are worth it.
July 25, 2016
Sadly, I was only able to read the Jeaniene Frost story which is the reason I bought Unbound. The rest of the book was not for me.
1. Key Line Drifter by Kim Harrison
Tried to get into this. It was about fairies and after 10 pages, I gave up. Did not interest me at all. Unwilling to finish.
2. Reckoning by Jeaniene Frost
Enjoyed it! This is the prequel to the Night Huntress series and features Bones! Love his character! The story dials us back to the time just before Bones goes to Ohio and meets Cat. This is not a romance, but more of a horror. Enjoyed how it used info already relayed in the series (loved the series!) by mentioning tiny nuances, i.e., Bones' hair color, the Voodoo Queen, why he was banned from New Orleans, piano playing, etc. Gruesome story, so FYI.
4 Stars!
3. Dark Matters by Vicki Pettersson
This was about superheroes and I had a difficult time following the author's train of thought. May have been overedited to fit into this anthology because felt like the story skipped around. After I had to back up and try to figure out what I missed--several times--I stopped reading it. Unwilling to finish.
4. The Dead, the Damned, and the Forgotten by Jocelynn Drake
Too much ambiguity! Obviously, this is part of a series and necessary prior knowledge was not included in this story to help it make sense. Nor, did this teaser inspire me to read the others and figure it all out. I was turned off by the writing style. It wasn't smooth. Jumped around between scenes. The main character suddenly switched personality gears and I couldn't figure out what the heck was going on with the characters. I got the plot: dead vampire and Mira was the leader of her domain/detective trying to solve the crime; nightwalkers, werewolves, covens and some breath stealing creature; someone was out to take over Mira's domain and have her sent back to her "coven." Unwilling to finish.
5. Two Lines by Melissa Marr
Didn't care for the writing style and after a few pages--coupled with my feelings for the other 3 stories--I gave up on reading this one fairly quickly as I was sick of this book. Unwilling to finish.
1. Key Line Drifter by Kim Harrison
Tried to get into this. It was about fairies and after 10 pages, I gave up. Did not interest me at all. Unwilling to finish.
2. Reckoning by Jeaniene Frost
Enjoyed it! This is the prequel to the Night Huntress series and features Bones! Love his character! The story dials us back to the time just before Bones goes to Ohio and meets Cat. This is not a romance, but more of a horror. Enjoyed how it used info already relayed in the series (loved the series!) by mentioning tiny nuances, i.e., Bones' hair color, the Voodoo Queen, why he was banned from New Orleans, piano playing, etc. Gruesome story, so FYI.
4 Stars!
3. Dark Matters by Vicki Pettersson
This was about superheroes and I had a difficult time following the author's train of thought. May have been overedited to fit into this anthology because felt like the story skipped around. After I had to back up and try to figure out what I missed--several times--I stopped reading it. Unwilling to finish.
4. The Dead, the Damned, and the Forgotten by Jocelynn Drake
Too much ambiguity! Obviously, this is part of a series and necessary prior knowledge was not included in this story to help it make sense. Nor, did this teaser inspire me to read the others and figure it all out. I was turned off by the writing style. It wasn't smooth. Jumped around between scenes. The main character suddenly switched personality gears and I couldn't figure out what the heck was going on with the characters. I got the plot: dead vampire and Mira was the leader of her domain/detective trying to solve the crime; nightwalkers, werewolves, covens and some breath stealing creature; someone was out to take over Mira's domain and have her sent back to her "coven." Unwilling to finish.
5. Two Lines by Melissa Marr
Didn't care for the writing style and after a few pages--coupled with my feelings for the other 3 stories--I gave up on reading this one fairly quickly as I was sick of this book. Unwilling to finish.
October 1, 2021
I've read only Reckoning by Jeaniene Frost.
Reckoning is a prelude to the Night Huntress series. Not essential, but it’s definitely worth reading.
Bones arrives to New Orleans to hunt down two vicious ghouls, just before he travels to Ohio and meets Cat.
Though it’s a prequel, it’s best to read after book one (or even later).
Reckoning is a prelude to the Night Huntress series. Not essential, but it’s definitely worth reading.
Bones arrives to New Orleans to hunt down two vicious ghouls, just before he travels to Ohio and meets Cat.
Bones left without looking back. His flight out of the city was already booked. By tonight, he’d be on his way to Ohio, searching out the undead accountant he’d been tracking before he got involved in this mess. This was over, but it was time for the next hunt.
Though it’s a prequel, it’s best to read after book one (or even later).
September 2, 2009
This review is for Reckoning, by Jeaniene Frost...
Attention all Cat and Bones fans...here's a tasty little morsel to tide you over until the next full length story about them or their world (First Drop of Crimson) comes out. Now be warned, there is no mention of Cat in this one, because it occurs in February 2004, right before Bones heads to Ohio and meets up with her for the first time. This one takes place in New Orleans during Mardi Gras, and Bones is flying solo in this one. He's in town (as a hitman) when Marie (Majestic) the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans supposedly asks him to kill a couple of really old ghouls (Delphine and Louis LaLaurie) who are terrorizing the city, snatching revelers and eating them (*gulp*). The LaLauries are a couple of really nasty characters, and they do some really gross and gruesome things, and our man Bones is out to stop them. Of course there's a few twists to the story when he finds out who really wants them dead (and why), and Bones proves that he really is a good and decent guy. He also has to deal with an annoying vampire (Ralmiel) who's out to collect the bounty on his head and who hinders his hunt for the LaLauries, but who ends up playing an important role in helping him to rid the city of the evil ghouls. We finally get a look inside Bones's head since this story is told with his POV (very interesting), and hear his thoughts about himself and his life. There's no romance so to speak (although he does befriend a hairdresser who helps him dye his hair platinum, and has a sexual liason with her--off the pages). Things don't turn out so well for her though, and I had to admire the decision Bones made about her fate (he really is a good guy).
This was a nice liitle UF read, but it was a little like a delicious little appetizer, and I'm hungry for the main course. A story about Bones and Cat would do nicely to fill me up! 4 stars
Attention all Cat and Bones fans...here's a tasty little morsel to tide you over until the next full length story about them or their world (First Drop of Crimson) comes out. Now be warned, there is no mention of Cat in this one, because it occurs in February 2004, right before Bones heads to Ohio and meets up with her for the first time. This one takes place in New Orleans during Mardi Gras, and Bones is flying solo in this one. He's in town (as a hitman) when Marie (Majestic) the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans supposedly asks him to kill a couple of really old ghouls (Delphine and Louis LaLaurie) who are terrorizing the city, snatching revelers and eating them (*gulp*). The LaLauries are a couple of really nasty characters, and they do some really gross and gruesome things, and our man Bones is out to stop them. Of course there's a few twists to the story when he finds out who really wants them dead (and why), and Bones proves that he really is a good and decent guy. He also has to deal with an annoying vampire (Ralmiel) who's out to collect the bounty on his head and who hinders his hunt for the LaLauries, but who ends up playing an important role in helping him to rid the city of the evil ghouls. We finally get a look inside Bones's head since this story is told with his POV (very interesting), and hear his thoughts about himself and his life. There's no romance so to speak (although he does befriend a hairdresser who helps him dye his hair platinum, and has a sexual liason with her--off the pages). Things don't turn out so well for her though, and I had to admire the decision Bones made about her fate (he really is a good guy).
This was a nice liitle UF read, but it was a little like a delicious little appetizer, and I'm hungry for the main course. A story about Bones and Cat would do nicely to fill me up! 4 stars
October 23, 2010
Oh the dreaded anthology. We all buy them (or if we are lucky - borrow them) with great hopes and expectations for the one story or one author we love. I personally believe that I need to read all the stories in an anthology – my own personal OCD trait, whereas I see others read just one story. And that’s fine with me.
I picked up Unbound because it had three authors I was familiar with: Kim Harrison, Melissa Marr, and Jeaniene Frost. The other two authors were Vicki Petersson and Jocelyn Drake. I was pleasantly surprised which stories became my favorites – I really didn’t see that coming.
Ley Line Drifter by Kim Harrison 2.5 stars
I love Kim Harrison’s Rachel Morgan/The Hollows series and Jenks is one of my favorite characters ever, but I was really disappointed by this story. Jenks and Bis the gargoyle get a story on their own and I was saddened that Jenks could not hold a story on his own. I actually missed Rachel.
Reckoning by Jeaniene Frost 3 stars
This is Bones’ story, before he meets Cat. Bones is in New Orleans and is chasing two killer ghouls. Marie makes an appearance as well. I was so looking forward to this story. Bones is one of my favorite characters but this story did not do him any justice. There just wasn’t any delicious sexual tension.
Dark Matters by Vicki Petersson 4 stars
I had read a Vicki Petersson story in another anthology and I really disliked it. I was seriously contemplating skipping this story but I am so glad that I didn’t. Such a beautiful love story between light and shade. Loved the story, loved the characters, loved it all.
The Dead, The Damned, and the Forgotten by Jocelyn Drake 2 stars
Not a memorable story for me. I can’t even remember it.
Two Lines by Melissa Marr 4 stars
This is one of the surprise stories. I was expecting a story about the fae and I got something completely unexpected. And – I truly enjoyed the story. Absolutely wonderful.
I’m glad I took the time to read all the stories. I’ve discovered a new author for me to explore – Vicki Petersson, and I was impressed with Melissa Marr’s story.
I picked up Unbound because it had three authors I was familiar with: Kim Harrison, Melissa Marr, and Jeaniene Frost. The other two authors were Vicki Petersson and Jocelyn Drake. I was pleasantly surprised which stories became my favorites – I really didn’t see that coming.
Ley Line Drifter by Kim Harrison 2.5 stars
I love Kim Harrison’s Rachel Morgan/The Hollows series and Jenks is one of my favorite characters ever, but I was really disappointed by this story. Jenks and Bis the gargoyle get a story on their own and I was saddened that Jenks could not hold a story on his own. I actually missed Rachel.
Reckoning by Jeaniene Frost 3 stars
This is Bones’ story, before he meets Cat. Bones is in New Orleans and is chasing two killer ghouls. Marie makes an appearance as well. I was so looking forward to this story. Bones is one of my favorite characters but this story did not do him any justice. There just wasn’t any delicious sexual tension.
Dark Matters by Vicki Petersson 4 stars
I had read a Vicki Petersson story in another anthology and I really disliked it. I was seriously contemplating skipping this story but I am so glad that I didn’t. Such a beautiful love story between light and shade. Loved the story, loved the characters, loved it all.
The Dead, The Damned, and the Forgotten by Jocelyn Drake 2 stars
Not a memorable story for me. I can’t even remember it.
Two Lines by Melissa Marr 4 stars
This is one of the surprise stories. I was expecting a story about the fae and I got something completely unexpected. And – I truly enjoyed the story. Absolutely wonderful.
I’m glad I took the time to read all the stories. I’ve discovered a new author for me to explore – Vicki Petersson, and I was impressed with Melissa Marr’s story.
March 9, 2010
I only read Reckoning by Jeaniene Frost, which is a prequel to the Night Huntress series, featuring my favorite sexy vampire Bones. It was cool to get his POV for a change!
September 9, 2009
I only read Reckoning by Jeaniene Frost and I really liked it. Ahh Bones. He is my favorite part of the Night Huntress series. His English (Spike) accent seems a little subdued here which was a wee bit disappointing but nitpicking aside I really liked this short story.
July 24, 2020
Ley Line Drifter - 2 stars. - I thought this crap would never end. How stupid are these people/pixies/whatever? Something possesses a pixie child, asking to be released from a statue, and they think something is off. Then a woman appears claiming to be a goddess, telling them to free him, he's supposed to be trapped in there. So does anybody ask why he's supposed to be trapped in there? Does anybody consider that he might be dangerous? No! Of course not, they attack the goddess and try to release this other bloke from the statue. Like seriously?!?!?! What the hell is wrong with you?!
And then as if that wasn't bad enough, they kept saying all this 'tink' crap instead of swearing (I guess). The worst was by far 'Tink's dildo'. Yuck. This is 2 and a half hours of my life I want back.
Reckoning - 3 stars - This was okay, I mean it had Bones in it after all so that helped. It was pretty gruesome how the Lalaurie's were basically eating people alive.
Dark Matters - 2.5 stars - This was okay, but I didn't understand what they were talking about at times, and the whole business of putting on a child's aura began to sound like paedophilia when JJ did that, and then went and had sex. Er, yuck. Completely disgusting. And also, how dumb is JJ? I mean, it's obvious which head is in control with him, and it's not the one on top of his neck.
The Dead, the Damned, and the Forgotten - 3 stars - This wasn't too bad. There were things that I didn't understand, but the story was still good enough that I would consider reading the books in this series.
Two Lines by Melissa Marr - 3.5 stars - this was the best of the bunch really, although I'm not sure how Eavan thinks she's going to stay human.
And then as if that wasn't bad enough, they kept saying all this 'tink' crap instead of swearing (I guess). The worst was by far 'Tink's dildo'. Yuck. This is 2 and a half hours of my life I want back.
Reckoning - 3 stars - This was okay, I mean it had Bones in it after all so that helped. It was pretty gruesome how the Lalaurie's were basically eating people alive.
Dark Matters - 2.5 stars - This was okay, but I didn't understand what they were talking about at times, and the whole business of putting on a child's aura began to sound like paedophilia when JJ did that, and then went and had sex. Er, yuck. Completely disgusting. And also, how dumb is JJ? I mean, it's obvious which head is in control with him, and it's not the one on top of his neck.
The Dead, the Damned, and the Forgotten - 3 stars - This wasn't too bad. There were things that I didn't understand, but the story was still good enough that I would consider reading the books in this series.
Two Lines by Melissa Marr - 3.5 stars - this was the best of the bunch really, although I'm not sure how Eavan thinks she's going to stay human.
December 30, 2010
This anthology includes 5 new stories by popular paranormal authors. In all cases (except for Marr's story) the stories are set in preexisting worlds created by the authors. My favorite of the bunch were "Ley Line Drifter" which gives you a closer look at Jenks' family and "Rekoning" which introduced me to Jeaniene Frost's writing. This book made me want to learn more both about Frost and Drake and read some of their series. "Dark Matters" by Petttersson is an important read for those of us reading the "Signs of the Zodiac" series as it explains in full some of the events that happened in "City of Souls". Marr's first adult story "Two Lines" was also a pleasant surprise and I liked it quite a bit more than her young adult series.
In general the stories in this book tend more towards action/urban fantasy than romance. I personally enjoyed that. All in all a great collection of stories. See below for more detail on each story in this anthology.
"Ley Line Drifter" by Kim Harrison (5/5 stars)
An excellent story set in Harrison's Hollows world, it's about Jenks helping a fellow pixie. You learn more about pixie culture and there is a ton of action. Given the ending I am wondering if what Jenks and Ivy unleashed will come back to haunt them in the next Hollows book.
"Reckoning" by Jeaniene Frost (5/5 stars)
A prequel to the Night Huntress series by Frost. This story tells about a vampire named Bones who is hired by the New Orleans Queen vampire to take out some serial killer Ghouls. On top of this hunt for the killers, someone is trying to kill Bones. I have never read any of Frost's Night Huntress books but based on this story I will have to check them out. I like her writing style; no-nonsense and lots of action. Bones was an intriguing character and Frost creates an interesting variation on paranormal alternate worlds.
"Dark Matters" by Vicki Pettersson (3/5 stars)
This is a prequel to her "Signs of the Zodiac series". It tells the background/history of JJ/Hunter. It was good to read a story that made the events in the "City of Souls" (book 4) make more sense. I still don't understand why "City of Souls" couldn't have explained what this story did. If you are reading the "Signs of the Zodiac" series then reading this story is a must. As for the story itself I didn't like it all that much (aside from the info it gives). The story is more a romance than anything and much of the action is pushed aside for numerous sex scenes. It was okay, but nothing to write home about.
"The Dead, the Damned, and the Forgotten" by Jocelynn Drake (4/5 stars)
Prequel to the Dark Days series by Jocelynn Drake; I have not read any books in this series. This story follows Mira as she tries to track down a nightwalker killer and avoid assassination herself. Both Mira and Knox are intriguing characters. The story was action packed and hints at an interesting world. An enjoyable read. I will have to check out the Dark Days series eventually to see how I like the full novels.
"Two Lines" by Melissa Marr (4/5 stars)
This story tells about Eaven, she is a human that will become a glasitig is she ever does two things: kill and have sex. She is hell bent on staying human. Things get out of control when she starts hunting a drug lord. When her grandmother provides a sexy bodyguard for her Eaven begins to wonder if her desire to stay human is worth the sacrifice. Not as much action as the other stories, this story presented a very unique world with supernatural creatures different than I was used to seeing. I actually like Marr's writing style in this story quite a bit more than her writing style in her "Wicked Lovely" series.
In general the stories in this book tend more towards action/urban fantasy than romance. I personally enjoyed that. All in all a great collection of stories. See below for more detail on each story in this anthology.
"Ley Line Drifter" by Kim Harrison (5/5 stars)
An excellent story set in Harrison's Hollows world, it's about Jenks helping a fellow pixie. You learn more about pixie culture and there is a ton of action. Given the ending I am wondering if what Jenks and Ivy unleashed will come back to haunt them in the next Hollows book.
"Reckoning" by Jeaniene Frost (5/5 stars)
A prequel to the Night Huntress series by Frost. This story tells about a vampire named Bones who is hired by the New Orleans Queen vampire to take out some serial killer Ghouls. On top of this hunt for the killers, someone is trying to kill Bones. I have never read any of Frost's Night Huntress books but based on this story I will have to check them out. I like her writing style; no-nonsense and lots of action. Bones was an intriguing character and Frost creates an interesting variation on paranormal alternate worlds.
"Dark Matters" by Vicki Pettersson (3/5 stars)
This is a prequel to her "Signs of the Zodiac series". It tells the background/history of JJ/Hunter. It was good to read a story that made the events in the "City of Souls" (book 4) make more sense. I still don't understand why "City of Souls" couldn't have explained what this story did. If you are reading the "Signs of the Zodiac" series then reading this story is a must. As for the story itself I didn't like it all that much (aside from the info it gives). The story is more a romance than anything and much of the action is pushed aside for numerous sex scenes. It was okay, but nothing to write home about.
"The Dead, the Damned, and the Forgotten" by Jocelynn Drake (4/5 stars)
Prequel to the Dark Days series by Jocelynn Drake; I have not read any books in this series. This story follows Mira as she tries to track down a nightwalker killer and avoid assassination herself. Both Mira and Knox are intriguing characters. The story was action packed and hints at an interesting world. An enjoyable read. I will have to check out the Dark Days series eventually to see how I like the full novels.
"Two Lines" by Melissa Marr (4/5 stars)
This story tells about Eaven, she is a human that will become a glasitig is she ever does two things: kill and have sex. She is hell bent on staying human. Things get out of control when she starts hunting a drug lord. When her grandmother provides a sexy bodyguard for her Eaven begins to wonder if her desire to stay human is worth the sacrifice. Not as much action as the other stories, this story presented a very unique world with supernatural creatures different than I was used to seeing. I actually like Marr's writing style in this story quite a bit more than her writing style in her "Wicked Lovely" series.
December 18, 2014
In "Ley Line Drifter" by Kim Harrison Jenks is approached by another pixy for a job all his own. In a park there is a pixy family that is being attacked by a statue, it's killing the children in the night. Jenks knows that something is trapped in the statue and has to think of a way to get it out, but is getting it out really the right thing to do?
In "Reckoning" by Jeaniene Frost we get a peek into Bones' life before he hooks up with Cat. There's a murderous couple loose in St. Louis and it's Bones' job to track them down and eliminate them, but with a hit-man on his tail, how is he supposed to protect his own life and those of the city at the same time?
In "Dark Matters" by Vicki Pettersson, JJ, an agent of the light, is starting to burn out, still wracked with the guilt of his parents death, he runs across a women who seems to spark him back to life. Only problem is? She's an agent of Shadow. She's the only one that makes him feel alive, and the one most capable of bringing about his death....
In "The Dead, the Damned, and the Forgotten" by Jocelynn Drake, we get a look into Mira's life before the hunter and naturi show up. There is a mysterious nightwalker death in Savannah, and with the coven there to watch her every move, she must find the killer, before it's too late.
In "Two Lines" by Melissa Marr, Eavan is struggling to keep ahold of the mortal side of her life, but with a drug-dealer in town who is kidnapping and selling women, and a hot bodyguard on her every move, Eavan will find that temptation is not so easy to overcome.
In "Reckoning" by Jeaniene Frost we get a peek into Bones' life before he hooks up with Cat. There's a murderous couple loose in St. Louis and it's Bones' job to track them down and eliminate them, but with a hit-man on his tail, how is he supposed to protect his own life and those of the city at the same time?
In "Dark Matters" by Vicki Pettersson, JJ, an agent of the light, is starting to burn out, still wracked with the guilt of his parents death, he runs across a women who seems to spark him back to life. Only problem is? She's an agent of Shadow. She's the only one that makes him feel alive, and the one most capable of bringing about his death....
In "The Dead, the Damned, and the Forgotten" by Jocelynn Drake, we get a look into Mira's life before the hunter and naturi show up. There is a mysterious nightwalker death in Savannah, and with the coven there to watch her every move, she must find the killer, before it's too late.
In "Two Lines" by Melissa Marr, Eavan is struggling to keep ahold of the mortal side of her life, but with a drug-dealer in town who is kidnapping and selling women, and a hot bodyguard on her every move, Eavan will find that temptation is not so easy to overcome.
May 31, 2018
These stories did not match my mood.
August 18, 2021
{Read only Kim Harrison's story} Finally a tiny new PoV, along with even more new races introduced.
January 9, 2013
THIS IS A GREAT SERIES! It has become my all time favorite.
KIM HARRISON(Dawn Cook) is the best, you will be hooked from book 1, page 1.
SHE WILL ALWAYS LEAVE YOU WANTING MORE...AND WAITING FOR THE NEXT IN THE SERIES!
You will not be disappointed! K.H.'s characters come alive, you will laugh and cry with them, grow tremendously from book #1. I love the world that K.H. has created. Bio-engineered tomatoes, witches, vampires, pixies, faeries, trolls, wolves...
The first book runs kinda slow in the beginning but finishes with a bang. And the rest of the series..Kicks-Butt!
WARNING:The novels build on each other...things that happen in book 1 will not be figured out until book 3 and book 3 events with be concluded in book 7, etc. K.H does a wonderful job on weaving the entire series.
I reread the entire series every new release and LOVE every last one of them!!!
YOU TOO WILL FALL IN LOVE WITH KIM HARRISON, RACHEL, IVY, JENKS AND THE REST OF KIM HARRISON'S CHARACTERS.
THE ORDER OF K.H'S RACHEL MORGAN/HOLLOWS SERIES:
#1. "Dead Witch Walking"
#2. "The Good, The Bad, and the Undead"
#3. "Every Which Way But Dead"
#4. "A Fistful of Charms"
#5. "For A Few Demons More"
#6. "The Outlaw Demon Wails"
#7. "White Witch, Black Curse"
#8. "Black Magic Sanction"
#9. "Pale Demon"
#10. "A Perfect Blood"
#11. "Ever After"
#12. TBA 2014
#13. TBA 2015 ***The series ends at book 13***
Extras
"The Hollows Insider" Hollows world guide, the definitive source for all things Hollows
"Into the Woods" Contains previously released Hollows shorts and novellas, and five new stories from the Hollows and beyond.
Anthologies(short stories)
#1. Undead in The Garden of Good and Evil -Ivy's POV "Dates From Hell"
#2. Two Ghosts for Sister Rachel -/Rachel & Pierce "Holidays are Hell"
#3. Dirty Magic -Mia's short story in "Hotter than Hell"
#4. Ley Line Drifter -Bis and Jenks short story in "Unbound"
The Hollows Graphic Novel Series
#1. "Blood Work"
#2. "Blood Crime"
Madison Avery Trilogy
-Anthology- "Prom Nights from Hell"
#1. "Once Dead, Twice Shy"
#2. "Early to Death, Early to Rise"
#3. "Something Deadly this way Comes"
http://www.kimharrison.net/TheBooks.html
KIM HARRISON(Dawn Cook) is the best, you will be hooked from book 1, page 1.
SHE WILL ALWAYS LEAVE YOU WANTING MORE...AND WAITING FOR THE NEXT IN THE SERIES!
You will not be disappointed! K.H.'s characters come alive, you will laugh and cry with them, grow tremendously from book #1. I love the world that K.H. has created. Bio-engineered tomatoes, witches, vampires, pixies, faeries, trolls, wolves...
The first book runs kinda slow in the beginning but finishes with a bang. And the rest of the series..Kicks-Butt!
WARNING:The novels build on each other...things that happen in book 1 will not be figured out until book 3 and book 3 events with be concluded in book 7, etc. K.H does a wonderful job on weaving the entire series.
I reread the entire series every new release and LOVE every last one of them!!!
YOU TOO WILL FALL IN LOVE WITH KIM HARRISON, RACHEL, IVY, JENKS AND THE REST OF KIM HARRISON'S CHARACTERS.
THE ORDER OF K.H'S RACHEL MORGAN/HOLLOWS SERIES:
#1. "Dead Witch Walking"
#2. "The Good, The Bad, and the Undead"
#3. "Every Which Way But Dead"
#4. "A Fistful of Charms"
#5. "For A Few Demons More"
#6. "The Outlaw Demon Wails"
#7. "White Witch, Black Curse"
#8. "Black Magic Sanction"
#9. "Pale Demon"
#10. "A Perfect Blood"
#11. "Ever After"
#12. TBA 2014
#13. TBA 2015 ***The series ends at book 13***
Extras
"The Hollows Insider" Hollows world guide, the definitive source for all things Hollows
"Into the Woods" Contains previously released Hollows shorts and novellas, and five new stories from the Hollows and beyond.
Anthologies(short stories)
#1. Undead in The Garden of Good and Evil -Ivy's POV "Dates From Hell"
#2. Two Ghosts for Sister Rachel -/Rachel & Pierce "Holidays are Hell"
#3. Dirty Magic -Mia's short story in "Hotter than Hell"
#4. Ley Line Drifter -Bis and Jenks short story in "Unbound"
The Hollows Graphic Novel Series
#1. "Blood Work"
#2. "Blood Crime"
Madison Avery Trilogy
-Anthology- "Prom Nights from Hell"
#1. "Once Dead, Twice Shy"
#2. "Early to Death, Early to Rise"
#3. "Something Deadly this way Comes"
http://www.kimharrison.net/TheBooks.html
Read
February 26, 2010"Ley Line Drifter" by Kim Harrison-
I was really happy that it followed Jenks (with Bis the gargoyle as his sidekick). I've only read the first book so far in that series, but he'd already grown to be my favorite one there. It was a good quick story. I don't know what else has been introduced in the series, but you can read it and not wonder what you've missed.
"Reckoning" by Jeanene Frost-
I'm glad she decided to write about Bones. He is an awesome character and it was interesting to be inside his head for a while. The story takes place in New Orleans, before he met Cat, to kill the LaLauries. Depending on how far you've read into the series, "Majestic" is the only other character you'll recognize.
"Dark Matter" by Vicki Petterson-
Really lame. This had no thought to it what-so-ever. The classic tale of good guy falls in love with bad guy and gets duped. After a few chapters I was wanting to just skip the rest and go to something better, but with how short these stories are I just finished the last few short chapters.
"The Dead, the Damned and the Forgotten" by Jocelyn Drake-
Not bad. I could read more from that series. This story follows a vampire named Mia, who runs the domain she's in. She gets called to the morgue for a scorched vampire to ensure continued ignorance with the humans. But it ends up being a much bigger issue and if she's unable to solve and quickly tie up loose ends she will be the one in trouble.
"Two Lines" by Melissa Marr-
This story follows a girl named Eavan, who's part of a Glaistig clan, but wants to keep her humanity. As long as she stays away from sex and death she'll be okay, though her family want her to fully cross over. This story is about her sensory overload. Not a bad story, but I don't feel the urge to buy more from her.
I was really happy that it followed Jenks (with Bis the gargoyle as his sidekick). I've only read the first book so far in that series, but he'd already grown to be my favorite one there. It was a good quick story. I don't know what else has been introduced in the series, but you can read it and not wonder what you've missed.
"Reckoning" by Jeanene Frost-
I'm glad she decided to write about Bones. He is an awesome character and it was interesting to be inside his head for a while. The story takes place in New Orleans, before he met Cat, to kill the LaLauries. Depending on how far you've read into the series, "Majestic" is the only other character you'll recognize.
"Dark Matter" by Vicki Petterson-
Really lame. This had no thought to it what-so-ever. The classic tale of good guy falls in love with bad guy and gets duped. After a few chapters I was wanting to just skip the rest and go to something better, but with how short these stories are I just finished the last few short chapters.
"The Dead, the Damned and the Forgotten" by Jocelyn Drake-
Not bad. I could read more from that series. This story follows a vampire named Mia, who runs the domain she's in. She gets called to the morgue for a scorched vampire to ensure continued ignorance with the humans. But it ends up being a much bigger issue and if she's unable to solve and quickly tie up loose ends she will be the one in trouble.
"Two Lines" by Melissa Marr-
This story follows a girl named Eavan, who's part of a Glaistig clan, but wants to keep her humanity. As long as she stays away from sex and death she'll be okay, though her family want her to fully cross over. This story is about her sensory overload. Not a bad story, but I don't feel the urge to buy more from her.
September 11, 2009
Not a bad short stories collection. I think perhaps I would have gotten more out of it if I had read more books from the authors. Kim Harrison is the only author of the 5 I've read.
Kim Harrison's story only held an interest for me because I adore Jenks from the Rachel Morgan series. It gave me more insight into him and his family's life that we don't normally see. I do like Bis also. Otherwise-- it was just kind of blah. Would probably give a 3 standing on it's own.
For Jeaniene Frost and Vicki Peterson's stories-- I thought they were decent,however,felt I didn't really "get it" because I hadn't read the books these stories were based on. I have some of their books on my list for later so maybe I'll revist those again then. Would probably give 2.5
Melissa Marr-- well... I have her books on my list-- and I hope they are not like this story. This was just weird...it was my least favorite of the 5. Would probably give a 2.
Jocelynn Drake's story-- now this was my favorite. It's obvious this story is based on her other book series, however, this story stood very well alone and I flew through it. The writing wasn't great but this had a little bit of a Rachel Morgan type feeling to it although a little more harsh. It was good enough for me to add her books to my list which I had not previously heard of. Would probably give a 4.
Kim Harrison's story only held an interest for me because I adore Jenks from the Rachel Morgan series. It gave me more insight into him and his family's life that we don't normally see. I do like Bis also. Otherwise-- it was just kind of blah. Would probably give a 3 standing on it's own.
For Jeaniene Frost and Vicki Peterson's stories-- I thought they were decent,however,felt I didn't really "get it" because I hadn't read the books these stories were based on. I have some of their books on my list for later so maybe I'll revist those again then. Would probably give 2.5
Melissa Marr-- well... I have her books on my list-- and I hope they are not like this story. This was just weird...it was my least favorite of the 5. Would probably give a 2.
Jocelynn Drake's story-- now this was my favorite. It's obvious this story is based on her other book series, however, this story stood very well alone and I flew through it. The writing wasn't great but this had a little bit of a Rachel Morgan type feeling to it although a little more harsh. It was good enough for me to add her books to my list which I had not previously heard of. Would probably give a 4.
January 17, 2010
1. Kim Harrison's story - a little sweet but very confusing - is Daryl really the bad guy with delusions of grandeur?
2. Jeaniene Frost story - very good Bones story, this should be read before the Cat stories. One sad part toward the end that had me crying.
3. Vicki Pettersson's story - horrible - depressing with a strange ending. I really disliked this story.
4. Jocelyn Drake's story - first time reading this author. I liked the story and the ending. I kind of figured out who the main bad guy was toward the beginning but it was enjoyable.
5. Melissa Marr's story - different - not a HEA but a good story nonetheless.
I'd buy this book for the Jeaniene Frost story alone.
2. Jeaniene Frost story - very good Bones story, this should be read before the Cat stories. One sad part toward the end that had me crying.
3. Vicki Pettersson's story - horrible - depressing with a strange ending. I really disliked this story.
4. Jocelyn Drake's story - first time reading this author. I liked the story and the ending. I kind of figured out who the main bad guy was toward the beginning but it was enjoyable.
5. Melissa Marr's story - different - not a HEA but a good story nonetheless.
I'd buy this book for the Jeaniene Frost story alone.
June 17, 2010
3.5 stars. I only read the Jeaniene Frost short that involves Bones. The story is pre-Cat, but during modern times in New Orleans. We get to meet the Queen of New Orleans, Marie and the story is told from Bones' point of view. It is a very dark and gruesome story centering around some rogue and murdering ghouls. The ending is not nessarily a feel good ending. While it is well written and I enjoyed the story, Frost tells us alot of what hapepens rather than shows us. Still I do think it is an interesting read for fans of the Night Huntress series.
January 24, 2011
Note:The rating is just for the Jeaniene Frost book, I haven't read the others
This is 0.5 in the Night Huntress series and it shows us what Bone's s doing just before he goes to Ohio and meets Cat. He is in New Orleans hunting a couple of ghouls who are torturing, killing and eating innocent people and not necessarily in that order. Although it was strange not seeing Bones without Cat, it was still a great shory (very short) story giving you a taste of Bone's personality and the Night Huntress world.
This is 0.5 in the Night Huntress series and it shows us what Bone's s doing just before he goes to Ohio and meets Cat. He is in New Orleans hunting a couple of ghouls who are torturing, killing and eating innocent people and not necessarily in that order. Although it was strange not seeing Bones without Cat, it was still a great shory (very short) story giving you a taste of Bone's personality and the Night Huntress world.
May 29, 2015
Read Ley Line Drifter.
Not bad Jenks. Good short story.
Not bad Jenks. Good short story.
July 10, 2024
5 paranormal/mystery short stories. This was a dollar deal on Amazon.
Kim Harrison - 3 stars. I've only read the first book in the series, but I did like Jenks as a character. This was only ok though. Lots of repetition & the last chapter was the worst! Cliffhanger ending. Pity.
Jeaniene Frost - 4 stars. I've read this short story about Bones in New Orleans before, but can't remember when or where. It's a good one though. This is pre Cat.
Vicki Pettersson - 4 stars. Wow! Powerful story. It haunted me. Poor Superhero...
Joecelynn Drake - 5 stars. Best story in the anthology. Mira is in charge of all the supernaturals in town. She has to solve a murder mystery before she loses it all.
Melissa Marr - 4 stars. Denying your own destiny is a bitch. Eaven holds out as long as she can.
Kim Harrison - 3 stars. I've only read the first book in the series, but I did like Jenks as a character. This was only ok though. Lots of repetition & the last chapter was the worst! Cliffhanger ending. Pity.
Jeaniene Frost - 4 stars. I've read this short story about Bones in New Orleans before, but can't remember when or where. It's a good one though. This is pre Cat.
Vicki Pettersson - 4 stars. Wow! Powerful story. It haunted me. Poor Superhero...
Joecelynn Drake - 5 stars. Best story in the anthology. Mira is in charge of all the supernaturals in town. She has to solve a murder mystery before she loses it all.
Melissa Marr - 4 stars. Denying your own destiny is a bitch. Eaven holds out as long as she can.
January 20, 2018
Rating for Ley Line Drifter only.
I love Jenks so much!!! And Bis is a wonderful addition!!! I love this series!!!
I love Jenks so much!!! And Bis is a wonderful addition!!! I love this series!!!
December 11, 2025
I've been into anthologies lately and this one was satisfying. I am still obsessed with Kim Harrison so I will read anything with her name on it.
August 9, 2019
Writing thoughts as I read the stories.
My previous review on the first story,
Ley Line Drifter -
Greatly enjoyed. Jenks has always been one of my favorites. I hope he always stayed Rachel's right-hand man. Ivy may have to move on as situations change but I hope she's always as close to Jenks in the same way she is now. And, I LOVE Bis but find him terribly underused in the series. Having him as a focus was great. Ivy was enjoyable here too as a loyal friend and sultry character. Finally good to read about Daryl coming into the picture and who she actually is.
What won this story over so much too is it was told through Jenks POV, so you get that feel of the pixie world that you never did as much before. The perspective is much stronger.
Reckoning by Jeanine Frost -
Since I find the Cat and Bones series hit or miss for the most part, I wasn't that excited about this story before reading it. It turned out to be through Bones POV, pre-Cat time, and ended up quite interesting. He's on the hunt of a vicious ghoul pair in New Orleans, while he woos a sweet girl, fights off a rival do-good vampire, learns the tragic backstory of another ghoul. We get a glimpse of the Voodoo Queen, who readers of the regular series are familiar with. There's plenty of action, Bones comes across a decent chap with a moral compass, there is a surprise twist tragedy I didn't think the author would delve into, all set in the dark heart of New Orleans. As Bones says in the tale, "last place for anyone to rest in peace, be it the living, or the dead."
Dark Matters by Vicki Pettersson
I had tried to get into the Zodiac series once before, but was not having luck with the first book. Keep meaning to make another attempt. This story is set in that world. Beautiful word weaving, but it was hard to get into the story since it seemed to be a backstory set in the worldbuilding that had already existed for 4 books in the series. It's also pretty lengthy.
The remaining stories I'm not familiar with those series either, but now I'm curious about both. Full review to come.
My previous review on the first story,
Ley Line Drifter -
Greatly enjoyed. Jenks has always been one of my favorites. I hope he always stayed Rachel's right-hand man. Ivy may have to move on as situations change but I hope she's always as close to Jenks in the same way she is now. And, I LOVE Bis but find him terribly underused in the series. Having him as a focus was great. Ivy was enjoyable here too as a loyal friend and sultry character. Finally good to read about Daryl coming into the picture and who she actually is.
What won this story over so much too is it was told through Jenks POV, so you get that feel of the pixie world that you never did as much before. The perspective is much stronger.
Reckoning by Jeanine Frost -
Since I find the Cat and Bones series hit or miss for the most part, I wasn't that excited about this story before reading it. It turned out to be through Bones POV, pre-Cat time, and ended up quite interesting. He's on the hunt of a vicious ghoul pair in New Orleans, while he woos a sweet girl, fights off a rival do-good vampire, learns the tragic backstory of another ghoul. We get a glimpse of the Voodoo Queen, who readers of the regular series are familiar with. There's plenty of action, Bones comes across a decent chap with a moral compass, there is a surprise twist tragedy I didn't think the author would delve into, all set in the dark heart of New Orleans. As Bones says in the tale, "last place for anyone to rest in peace, be it the living, or the dead."
Dark Matters by Vicki Pettersson
I had tried to get into the Zodiac series once before, but was not having luck with the first book. Keep meaning to make another attempt. This story is set in that world. Beautiful word weaving, but it was hard to get into the story since it seemed to be a backstory set in the worldbuilding that had already existed for 4 books in the series. It's also pretty lengthy.
The remaining stories I'm not familiar with those series either, but now I'm curious about both. Full review to come.
February 1, 2014
Unbound: Ley Line Drifter / Reckoning / Dark Matters / The Dead, the Damned and the Forgotten / Two Lines
Author: Jocelynn Drake, Jeaniene Frost, Melissa Marr, Vicki Pettersson, Kim Harrison
I am a 35 year old female who enjoys character driven stories, humor, and I'm not really into fantasy or romances but I'll pick up an occasional one now and then. I haven't read any of these authors prior to this book so I thought this would be a good opportunity to try them out. I gave each story a chance. I want to like every story in an Anthology, but it hasn't happened yet. I thought this was to be more of a vampire related collection (which I like in moderation) but it turned out to be more fantasy and their related worlds (which I rarely enjoy.) So, here is my take:
Ley Line Drifter by Kim Harrison: This is the story that interested me most when I saw the book because I often see her books when I go to pick up a Charlaine Harris book. Ugh! I was so lost with the world, all the characters names and abilities, and the names of all of the characters kids, the "Tink's Tampons" or Tink's Whatever exclamations (Who is Tink?) were out of place. I got twenty or thrity pages in and just couldn't go anymore so I started skimming, eventually losing interest enough that I didn't even care to read the last page. All I know is that these garden creatures are trying to save another one's kid from a statue that has a supernatural being in it. The statue is situated on a Ley Line (whatever that is.) I've got a Kim Harrison on my TBR pile and I'm still willing to give it a try but if it is anything like this one, I won't be reading anymore of her books.
Reckoning by Jeaniene Frost: This story is placed in New Orleans and begins with immortal "Kalifornia-esqe" vampires(?) luring people back to their former home so they can pull them apart and bathe in their blood. I think they eat them too. There is a character named Bones, who is pitted against them. I don't know much of his story but I assume if you follow this author, you'll know more. Since I don't, I can say that I read the story but didn't find it enthralling since I didn't know much about the lead's motivations and history.
The Dead, the Damned, and the Forgotten by Jocelynn Drake: Mira is a Fire Starter tasked with keeping her world in check and other immortals safe. The story begins with her going to the morgue after an immortal is murdered. She uses her abilities to destroy evidence of immortals (which keeps them safe) and to fight the bad ones. It was a decent story but I just couldn't make myself care about her since I didn't get to know her through this story - it even took me a little while to figure out that the Fire Starter was female. If you follow the series, you may know her better and just enjoy the story. It flowed well but didn't make me want to go out and buy her books. If I see another one in the thrift stores though, I wouldn't be opposed to picking it up for a further try.
Two Lines by Melissa Marr: I suspect this author wants to write dirty sex scenes as her main character is trying very hard not to have sex & death at the same time so she won't turn into (whatever her maternal ancestors are.) It was different and I didn't mind reading it but again, not something that made me seek out the authors other stories. It didn't turn me off to her other books, but didn't excite me for them either.
Dark Matters by Vicki Pettersson: Hmmm, this one surprised me because it is out of my comfort zone of reading (as most of this collection is) but I found myself liking the characters and their story and I got upset for them too. They are Superman-esqe characters and there is a dark force and a light force battling it out with each other. The story begins with a child named JJ, who witnesses his parents' murders by the dark forces to include a girl just a little older than he who showed him mercy and didn't finish him off or alert others when she sees him and the adults don't. Then the story flashes forward to him and her all grown. It is a story about the tangled web and complicated interactions that ensnares the two when the meet again. For someone who doesn't read fantasy or follow these authors, this was the best story in the anthology.
So, from a layman who hasn't followed these authors, I hope this helps and doesn't offend those of you who read and love these authors. I just thought this review might help others who, like me, would find these books out of their preferred genres.
Author: Jocelynn Drake, Jeaniene Frost, Melissa Marr, Vicki Pettersson, Kim Harrison
I am a 35 year old female who enjoys character driven stories, humor, and I'm not really into fantasy or romances but I'll pick up an occasional one now and then. I haven't read any of these authors prior to this book so I thought this would be a good opportunity to try them out. I gave each story a chance. I want to like every story in an Anthology, but it hasn't happened yet. I thought this was to be more of a vampire related collection (which I like in moderation) but it turned out to be more fantasy and their related worlds (which I rarely enjoy.) So, here is my take:
Ley Line Drifter by Kim Harrison: This is the story that interested me most when I saw the book because I often see her books when I go to pick up a Charlaine Harris book. Ugh! I was so lost with the world, all the characters names and abilities, and the names of all of the characters kids, the "Tink's Tampons" or Tink's Whatever exclamations (Who is Tink?) were out of place. I got twenty or thrity pages in and just couldn't go anymore so I started skimming, eventually losing interest enough that I didn't even care to read the last page. All I know is that these garden creatures are trying to save another one's kid from a statue that has a supernatural being in it. The statue is situated on a Ley Line (whatever that is.) I've got a Kim Harrison on my TBR pile and I'm still willing to give it a try but if it is anything like this one, I won't be reading anymore of her books.
Reckoning by Jeaniene Frost: This story is placed in New Orleans and begins with immortal "Kalifornia-esqe" vampires(?) luring people back to their former home so they can pull them apart and bathe in their blood. I think they eat them too. There is a character named Bones, who is pitted against them. I don't know much of his story but I assume if you follow this author, you'll know more. Since I don't, I can say that I read the story but didn't find it enthralling since I didn't know much about the lead's motivations and history.
The Dead, the Damned, and the Forgotten by Jocelynn Drake: Mira is a Fire Starter tasked with keeping her world in check and other immortals safe. The story begins with her going to the morgue after an immortal is murdered. She uses her abilities to destroy evidence of immortals (which keeps them safe) and to fight the bad ones. It was a decent story but I just couldn't make myself care about her since I didn't get to know her through this story - it even took me a little while to figure out that the Fire Starter was female. If you follow the series, you may know her better and just enjoy the story. It flowed well but didn't make me want to go out and buy her books. If I see another one in the thrift stores though, I wouldn't be opposed to picking it up for a further try.
Two Lines by Melissa Marr: I suspect this author wants to write dirty sex scenes as her main character is trying very hard not to have sex & death at the same time so she won't turn into (whatever her maternal ancestors are.) It was different and I didn't mind reading it but again, not something that made me seek out the authors other stories. It didn't turn me off to her other books, but didn't excite me for them either.
Dark Matters by Vicki Pettersson: Hmmm, this one surprised me because it is out of my comfort zone of reading (as most of this collection is) but I found myself liking the characters and their story and I got upset for them too. They are Superman-esqe characters and there is a dark force and a light force battling it out with each other. The story begins with a child named JJ, who witnesses his parents' murders by the dark forces to include a girl just a little older than he who showed him mercy and didn't finish him off or alert others when she sees him and the adults don't. Then the story flashes forward to him and her all grown. It is a story about the tangled web and complicated interactions that ensnares the two when the meet again. For someone who doesn't read fantasy or follow these authors, this was the best story in the anthology.
So, from a layman who hasn't followed these authors, I hope this helps and doesn't offend those of you who read and love these authors. I just thought this review might help others who, like me, would find these books out of their preferred genres.
February 7, 2011
I will be honest the only reason I bought this book was to read about Bones in Jeaniene Frost's Reckoning and I am SO GLAD I did! OMG if I could not love Bones more I sure do now!!
First I want to state that although this book is a prequel to Bones meeting Cat I would still recommend that you read the Night Huntress series FIRST before you read this one. The main reason is many readers fall in love with Bones in the Night Huntress series because of his passion for Cat but in the prequel we learn of Bones' POV on how he views his life which makes you understand why he behaves the way he does at times in the series.
We get to see a side of him that we really don't in the Night Huntress series and that is his profound loneliness prior to meeting Cat. We find him looking a little bit closer at his life and how others may see it as exciting, it is missing something or someone. I got the impression in this story that he lived his life without a significant someone not only because he was a player, but more due to the fact that he lived a dangerous life and anyone close to him would be at risk. It is at this point that we see the tender side of Bones. A Bones who is not only a ruthless vampire bounty hunter, but a vampire who feels compassion and tender emotions for those who are unable to protect themselves (there is a very graphic scene in the story that although heartbreaking demonstrates his tender side).
As a reader I fully understand why at this point in his existence the reason why Cat affected him so deeply and how he fell so deeply, and passionately in love with her.
He always had that side within him, but it took Cat to bring it up to the surface and to allow him to experience it, share it and live it, with her.
Ah Bones you somehow made it possible to love you even more. :)
5 Stars
First I want to state that although this book is a prequel to Bones meeting Cat I would still recommend that you read the Night Huntress series FIRST before you read this one. The main reason is many readers fall in love with Bones in the Night Huntress series because of his passion for Cat but in the prequel we learn of Bones' POV on how he views his life which makes you understand why he behaves the way he does at times in the series.
We get to see a side of him that we really don't in the Night Huntress series and that is his profound loneliness prior to meeting Cat. We find him looking a little bit closer at his life and how others may see it as exciting, it is missing something or someone. I got the impression in this story that he lived his life without a significant someone not only because he was a player, but more due to the fact that he lived a dangerous life and anyone close to him would be at risk. It is at this point that we see the tender side of Bones. A Bones who is not only a ruthless vampire bounty hunter, but a vampire who feels compassion and tender emotions for those who are unable to protect themselves (there is a very graphic scene in the story that although heartbreaking demonstrates his tender side).
As a reader I fully understand why at this point in his existence the reason why Cat affected him so deeply and how he fell so deeply, and passionately in love with her.
He always had that side within him, but it took Cat to bring it up to the surface and to allow him to experience it, share it and live it, with her.
Ah Bones you somehow made it possible to love you even more. :)
5 Stars
November 28, 2012
Kim Harrison's "Ley Line Drifter" is a short that features Jenks and Bis from her "Hollows" series. Jenks takes on an outside job from another pixy and starts his own detective agency. This story did not have much substance and did not tie back to the Hollows series very well. 3 stars
Vicki Pettersson's "Dark Matters" is a short that gives some background on a former Light Agent Jaden Jacks. JJ begins an illicit affair with a Shadow Agent, Solange. I like the way Vicki ties her short stories back to her main series. "Dark Matters" shows up as a manual in Cheat the Grave. 5 stars
Jeaniene Frost's Reckoning is her first foray into the Night Huntress world. I have not yet read the night huntress series but I wanted to start with this novella. Cat has not yet been introduced but Bones is in New Orleans hunting for serial killers. I really enjoyed this short and I can't wait to start reading Halfway to the Grave. 5 stars
Melissa Marr's "Two Lines" was a surprising discovery. I have read her Wicked Lovely series but have not read anything outside her Summer Queen world. This novella follows Eavan, a glaistig, who is fighting to maintain her humanity. Once a virgin glaistig has sex and kills, she loses her human form and becomes a true glaistig (beautiful from the waist up with cloven hooves and furred legs). Glaistigs kill by having sex with and stealing the breath from humans. Evvie is stalking a serial killer who is producing a drug that steals women's inhibitions and turns them into mindless zombies to sell on the black market. Unfortunately, while she wants to kill this evil human, she also is attracted to him - a deadly combination if she wants to stay human. 4 stars
Vicki Pettersson's "Dark Matters" is a short that gives some background on a former Light Agent Jaden Jacks. JJ begins an illicit affair with a Shadow Agent, Solange. I like the way Vicki ties her short stories back to her main series. "Dark Matters" shows up as a manual in Cheat the Grave. 5 stars
Jeaniene Frost's Reckoning is her first foray into the Night Huntress world. I have not yet read the night huntress series but I wanted to start with this novella. Cat has not yet been introduced but Bones is in New Orleans hunting for serial killers. I really enjoyed this short and I can't wait to start reading Halfway to the Grave. 5 stars
Melissa Marr's "Two Lines" was a surprising discovery. I have read her Wicked Lovely series but have not read anything outside her Summer Queen world. This novella follows Eavan, a glaistig, who is fighting to maintain her humanity. Once a virgin glaistig has sex and kills, she loses her human form and becomes a true glaistig (beautiful from the waist up with cloven hooves and furred legs). Glaistigs kill by having sex with and stealing the breath from humans. Evvie is stalking a serial killer who is producing a drug that steals women's inhibitions and turns them into mindless zombies to sell on the black market. Unfortunately, while she wants to kill this evil human, she also is attracted to him - a deadly combination if she wants to stay human. 4 stars
November 2, 2009
1. Ley Line Drifter by Kim Harrison
(Story takes place after White Witch, Black Curse)
If you're a fan of the Hollows series, you'll definitely want to read this short story. It feels like it's set the groundwork for these characters to re-appear in the main series (like how Pierce was first introduced in a SS). You don't have to have read any of the books in the series to understand what's going on, but for full enjoyment, I recommend reading the other books in the series first. There are WWBC spoilers(several references to things that happen in WWBC) in this SS. If you haven't read WWBC yet and plan to, wait and read that first.
2. Recknoning by Jeaniene Frost
(Prequel to Halfway to the Grave (Night Huntress, Book 1))
This can be read this without having to read any of the other books in the Night Huntress series. The story focuses on Bones. It's good, but not great. It's definitely not as good without Cat in the story.
3. Dark Matters by Vicki Pettersson
(haven't read yet)
4. The Dead, the Damned, and the Forgotten by Jocelynn Drake
Prequel to Nightwalker(Dark Days, Book 1). You can definitely read this without having read any of the other books in the series.
5. Two Lines by Melissa Marr
(haven't read yet)
(Story takes place after White Witch, Black Curse)
If you're a fan of the Hollows series, you'll definitely want to read this short story. It feels like it's set the groundwork for these characters to re-appear in the main series (like how Pierce was first introduced in a SS). You don't have to have read any of the books in the series to understand what's going on, but for full enjoyment, I recommend reading the other books in the series first. There are WWBC spoilers(several references to things that happen in WWBC) in this SS. If you haven't read WWBC yet and plan to, wait and read that first.
2. Recknoning by Jeaniene Frost
(Prequel to Halfway to the Grave (Night Huntress, Book 1))
This can be read this without having to read any of the other books in the Night Huntress series. The story focuses on Bones. It's good, but not great. It's definitely not as good without Cat in the story.
3. Dark Matters by Vicki Pettersson
(haven't read yet)
4. The Dead, the Damned, and the Forgotten by Jocelynn Drake
Prequel to Nightwalker(Dark Days, Book 1). You can definitely read this without having read any of the other books in the series.
5. Two Lines by Melissa Marr
(haven't read yet)
February 27, 2015
Ley Line Drifter - The Hollows, 7.5
2.5 stars
I would've thought that I'd like a story from Jenks POV more than this, but I don't feel like any new information was contributed, so the story felt kind of pointless.
We already knew that Jenks was a brand new kind of pixy, so creating a situation in which he behaves like a brand new kind of pixy and beating us over the head with all the evidence that shows how Jenks is a brand new kind of pixy is kind of redundant.
We also knew how worried Jenks is about Matalina's health, and driving that home is just depressing.
The only thing thing I didn't already know was that Jenks specifically chose Jumoke to be Rachel and Ivy's replacement pixy backup b/c he has dark coloring, which for some reason makes other pixies suspicious of him.
If Jumoke is pixy backup, then he at least has that to recommend himself when trying to find a wife.
BUT despite being pretty cool information, it was overshadowed by Jenks constant questioning of himself in regards to whether or not he was doing the right thing by training Jumoke, or if it would bite him in the ass like it did with Jax. The constant Jumoke scrutiny got tiresome.
2.5 stars
I would've thought that I'd like a story from Jenks POV more than this, but I don't feel like any new information was contributed, so the story felt kind of pointless.
We already knew that Jenks was a brand new kind of pixy, so creating a situation in which he behaves like a brand new kind of pixy and beating us over the head with all the evidence that shows how Jenks is a brand new kind of pixy is kind of redundant.
We also knew how worried Jenks is about Matalina's health, and driving that home is just depressing.
The only thing thing I didn't already know was that Jenks specifically chose Jumoke to be Rachel and Ivy's replacement pixy backup b/c he has dark coloring, which for some reason makes other pixies suspicious of him.
If Jumoke is pixy backup, then he at least has that to recommend himself when trying to find a wife.
BUT despite being pretty cool information, it was overshadowed by Jenks constant questioning of himself in regards to whether or not he was doing the right thing by training Jumoke, or if it would bite him in the ass like it did with Jax. The constant Jumoke scrutiny got tiresome.
October 11, 2009
This rating is only based on the first 3 stories in the book. The first story, by Kim Harrison, features Jenks going solo and saving the day. It was delightful. The Jeaniene Frost story gives us a P.C. (pre-Cat) Bones story and I loved it. The Vicki Pettersson story tells the tale of Jaden Jax and how he became Hunter and the female Shadow that led to his downfall. I imagine that anyone unfamiliar with Vicki Pettersson's Sign of the Zodiac series would find this story more than a bit confusing, but as a fan of those stories it helped fill in some gaps and gave answers to questions raised in the most recent addition to that series, CITY OF SOULS. I found the story hauntingly captivating. However if you are unfamiliar with the series, I wouldn't even try to follow it. I couldn't get into the last 2 stories.
I'd only really recommend this book to those who already have at least a passing familiarity with the worlds created by the authors.
I'd only really recommend this book to those who already have at least a passing familiarity with the worlds created by the authors.
July 4, 2013
LEY LINE DRIFTER by KIM HARRISON
Jenks the pixie adventure so right up my alley. Although I would have liked a more complete ending. Still laughs and action.
RECKONING by JEANIENE FROST
Bones only story pre-Cat
Interesting, savage, funny, complete, New Orleans, ghouls are serial killers, Bones brought in, lied to that master vamp hired him to kill ghouls, finds out, kills ghouls, master vamp kills ghoul, exiles Bones for 5 years from New Orleans
DARK MATTERS by VICKI PETTERSSON
Superhero story of how JJ becomes Hunter by betraying everything over love for an enemy. This story was not my cup of tea.
THE DEAD, THE DAMED, AND THE FORGOTTEN by JOCELYN DRAKE
Mira & Knox vampires to solve vamp murder. Right from the start get feeling for characters and world. Enjoyed very much. Need to look for more by her.
TWO LINES by MELLISA MARR
Sex/cruelty going together is not my things I this particular story did not work for me
Jenks the pixie adventure so right up my alley. Although I would have liked a more complete ending. Still laughs and action.
RECKONING by JEANIENE FROST
Bones only story pre-Cat
Interesting, savage, funny, complete, New Orleans, ghouls are serial killers, Bones brought in, lied to that master vamp hired him to kill ghouls, finds out, kills ghouls, master vamp kills ghoul, exiles Bones for 5 years from New Orleans
DARK MATTERS by VICKI PETTERSSON
Superhero story of how JJ becomes Hunter by betraying everything over love for an enemy. This story was not my cup of tea.
THE DEAD, THE DAMED, AND THE FORGOTTEN by JOCELYN DRAKE
Mira & Knox vampires to solve vamp murder. Right from the start get feeling for characters and world. Enjoyed very much. Need to look for more by her.
TWO LINES by MELLISA MARR
Sex/cruelty going together is not my things I this particular story did not work for me
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