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Deadtown #2
Hellforged
A demon is stalking Vicky's dreams-just as several of Deadtown's zombies are viciously attacked and become really dead. And when Vicky realizes she is the only connection between the victims, she suspects that the demon is somehow working through her dreams to become Deadtown's living nightmare.
340 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 11, 2010
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February 13, 2017
3.5
"And believe me, I know creepy."
The world building and characters in the first book, Deadtown, already drew me in. The second isn't quite as good, but it's still a fun continuation of the story-line.
Victoria Vaughn works mainly in dreams, hired to rid people of literal demons that haunt them at night, sucking out their energy or tormenting them. There are different forms - banshees, guilt demons, and worse. Vicky has seen the worst in her past with a demon that killed her father, but the fun times with that aren't over since he has returned and she had new battles to fight.
Besides Vicky being appealing by having such a unique job, there's also the fact that she's a unique form of shapeshifter - she can change into any form she wants but doesn't retain the instincts of that animal, but she can only do it three times per month then her power is used up.
Deadtown is the reservation where all the out and about supernatural creatures live - zombies were came back when infected with the virus but retained their human sense of self and brain; werewolves and other weres; Vicky as the only shapeshifter; vampires who are out and about and have to follow laws like everyone else. Blended with them are humans with a human law enforcement agency, but of course there is a paranormal task force in hand as well.
The city is so appealing that perhaps that's why this one isn't quite as enjoyable - as Vicky leaves the town, she leaves behind the magic of those creatures and their intrigue. Visiting her aunt, she does learn more about the history and mythology of her race, properly called Cerddorion. In Wales Vicky meets a new enemy that will be long-running, an intriguing villain who ups the stakes of any evil she's seen in her life up till now.
I know the aunt is supposed to be a groovy character, and in a way she is, but she got on my nerves sometimes, especially since she overdoes saying "Child" in dialogue. Way too much to where it's unrealistic in the dialogue department.
Overall it was an entertaining read of a series that already proved itself to be unique, detailed, fun, and gritty at the same time. Worth a read.
"And believe me, I know creepy."
The world building and characters in the first book, Deadtown, already drew me in. The second isn't quite as good, but it's still a fun continuation of the story-line.
Victoria Vaughn works mainly in dreams, hired to rid people of literal demons that haunt them at night, sucking out their energy or tormenting them. There are different forms - banshees, guilt demons, and worse. Vicky has seen the worst in her past with a demon that killed her father, but the fun times with that aren't over since he has returned and she had new battles to fight.
Besides Vicky being appealing by having such a unique job, there's also the fact that she's a unique form of shapeshifter - she can change into any form she wants but doesn't retain the instincts of that animal, but she can only do it three times per month then her power is used up.
Deadtown is the reservation where all the out and about supernatural creatures live - zombies were came back when infected with the virus but retained their human sense of self and brain; werewolves and other weres; Vicky as the only shapeshifter; vampires who are out and about and have to follow laws like everyone else. Blended with them are humans with a human law enforcement agency, but of course there is a paranormal task force in hand as well.
The city is so appealing that perhaps that's why this one isn't quite as enjoyable - as Vicky leaves the town, she leaves behind the magic of those creatures and their intrigue. Visiting her aunt, she does learn more about the history and mythology of her race, properly called Cerddorion. In Wales Vicky meets a new enemy that will be long-running, an intriguing villain who ups the stakes of any evil she's seen in her life up till now.
I know the aunt is supposed to be a groovy character, and in a way she is, but she got on my nerves sometimes, especially since she overdoes saying "Child" in dialogue. Way too much to where it's unrealistic in the dialogue department.
Overall it was an entertaining read of a series that already proved itself to be unique, detailed, fun, and gritty at the same time. Worth a read.
January 26, 2011
Plot Summary: After Victory (Vicky) Vaughn Boston's only paranormal demon hunter/extinguisher banished her demon nemesis Difethwr, the Destroyer to the fiery depths of Hell in Deadtown, she thought life would return to normal. But considering she has a werewolf lawyer boyfriend who is almost never around (Alexander Kane), a zombie apprentice (Tina) who’s angling to become the next new pop star, a human boyfriend who's also a police detective (Daniel Costello), and an eccentric vampire roommate (Juliet, who may or may not be THAT Juliet) who may be involved in some shady dealings, what is normal, anyway?
Then the supposedly banished Hellion starts to trespass in Vicky’s dreams—just as several of Deadtown’s zombies are viciously attacked and become really dead. When Vicky realizes she’s the only connection between the victims, she suspects that the demon is somehow working through her dreams to become Deadtown’s living nightmare.
What she doesn’t know is that her old enemy brings with it a force more terrifying—and deadly—than anything she’s battled before. With the mayor watching their every move and some human on the Human-Paranormal Joint Task Force "Goon Squad" watching her every move, Vicky feels trapped and needing some major personal time.
Review/Thoughts: I enjoyed the first part of this novel especially when the Glitch slims the idiot professor at MIT. The mystery surrounding the killing of TJ at Creature Comforts, and the new front desk clerk at her apartment complex. Then the mystery surrounding who was in Vicky's apartment with Juliet, drove the story. The middle part when Vicky’s Aunt Mab calls her home to Maenllyd in Wales to "finish her training", does lag some.
Upon arrival Victory meets the mysterious Pryce, who may or may not be related to her. He claims he is her cousin, but Vicky doesn't see the family resemblance. Then there's Pryce's prophecy told to Vicky that is supposingly fore told in the Book of Utter Darkness. Mab gives her a new weapon that seems to hate her since she has been marked by the Destroyer. When all is said and done, the new blade and Vicky get along just fine. This is where we get the name of the book from Hellforged. The knife itself was forged in Hell with obsidian metal aka Athame.
I don't think we have to worry about the Victory, Daniel Costello, and Alexander Kane interlude any longer. Especially since Alexander came dashing across the pond, as the English say, and helped rescue Aunt Mab from death at the hands of Pryce. Plus, I think Daniel found himself someone else in a spunky reporter for a TV station that covers the paranormals in Boston.
Victory still carries the Sword of Michael, last seen in Deadtown, and she makes use of it to free herself from her demon mark in the real interesting climax to this story. She still finds ways of getting rid of Glitches, and other demi-demons out of people's dreams. Of course, there are plenty of questions left to me answered.
1. Who are the old ones, and why did they take Pryce with them?
2. Why is Juliet on the run? Is she running from the Old One's?
3. Who really killed the supreme court justice who was standing in Alexanders way?
4. What's going to happen to the Human-Paranormal Joint Task Force aka Goon Squad now that one of their officers is dead and another was hurt in the Rally? Especially since the Mayor hates all paranorms and is just itching to get rid of them all.
Rating: I loved the action in this book. I like how Alexander finally grew a pair and jumped into the foray to help Vicky out. I really believe that it's time to write off Tina, but people like her for some reason, or the other. My rating 3.5 stars.
Then the supposedly banished Hellion starts to trespass in Vicky’s dreams—just as several of Deadtown’s zombies are viciously attacked and become really dead. When Vicky realizes she’s the only connection between the victims, she suspects that the demon is somehow working through her dreams to become Deadtown’s living nightmare.
What she doesn’t know is that her old enemy brings with it a force more terrifying—and deadly—than anything she’s battled before. With the mayor watching their every move and some human on the Human-Paranormal Joint Task Force "Goon Squad" watching her every move, Vicky feels trapped and needing some major personal time.
Review/Thoughts: I enjoyed the first part of this novel especially when the Glitch slims the idiot professor at MIT. The mystery surrounding the killing of TJ at Creature Comforts, and the new front desk clerk at her apartment complex. Then the mystery surrounding who was in Vicky's apartment with Juliet, drove the story. The middle part when Vicky’s Aunt Mab calls her home to Maenllyd in Wales to "finish her training", does lag some.
Upon arrival Victory meets the mysterious Pryce, who may or may not be related to her. He claims he is her cousin, but Vicky doesn't see the family resemblance. Then there's Pryce's prophecy told to Vicky that is supposingly fore told in the Book of Utter Darkness. Mab gives her a new weapon that seems to hate her since she has been marked by the Destroyer. When all is said and done, the new blade and Vicky get along just fine. This is where we get the name of the book from Hellforged. The knife itself was forged in Hell with obsidian metal aka Athame.
I don't think we have to worry about the Victory, Daniel Costello, and Alexander Kane interlude any longer. Especially since Alexander came dashing across the pond, as the English say, and helped rescue Aunt Mab from death at the hands of Pryce. Plus, I think Daniel found himself someone else in a spunky reporter for a TV station that covers the paranormals in Boston.
Victory still carries the Sword of Michael, last seen in Deadtown, and she makes use of it to free herself from her demon mark in the real interesting climax to this story. She still finds ways of getting rid of Glitches, and other demi-demons out of people's dreams. Of course, there are plenty of questions left to me answered.
1. Who are the old ones, and why did they take Pryce with them?
2. Why is Juliet on the run? Is she running from the Old One's?
3. Who really killed the supreme court justice who was standing in Alexanders way?
4. What's going to happen to the Human-Paranormal Joint Task Force aka Goon Squad now that one of their officers is dead and another was hurt in the Rally? Especially since the Mayor hates all paranorms and is just itching to get rid of them all.
Rating: I loved the action in this book. I like how Alexander finally grew a pair and jumped into the foray to help Vicky out. I really believe that it's time to write off Tina, but people like her for some reason, or the other. My rating 3.5 stars.
March 3, 2011
Well, I liked this one a lot more than Deadtown. I am trying to work out exactly why.
Part of it, I think, is that Vicky got out of her usual environment. This worked well for her as a character - getting to see more of where she came from, her childhood - and it was also nice to put some distance between Vicky/the story and secondary characters who bugged the crap out of me. We got very little Gwen (hooray!), not much Tina (though I would have been happier with even less Tina, who is still REALLY annoying). Not many dumb officials - in the first book, we had a lot of doctors/cops/politicians/authority figures that were so horrible it made me think the world was just not worth saving. All of that was much less prevalent in this book, which is a big plus.
I also liked the story. I liked the background and depth that it provided to the mythology of the series, and really liked Aunt Mab. The plot and the way it unfolded was really a lot of fun to me. I also appreciated that the primary arc of the first 2 books wrapped at the end of this book (I love feeling like a story is making progress / going somewhere), and foundation was laid (unobtrusively!! yay!) for where we are going next.
Vicky was still occasionally dumb (leaping to inexplicable conclusions on at least one occasion that comes to mind), but it felt like she was much less dumb than in the first book. And more than that, she was now a participant in her world, the lack of which really irritated me in the first one. She takes a stand for what is right, and that earned her some respect from me.
Last, but certainly not least: Kane is yum. Mmmm.
Will definitely read book 3.
Part of it, I think, is that Vicky got out of her usual environment. This worked well for her as a character - getting to see more of where she came from, her childhood - and it was also nice to put some distance between Vicky/the story and secondary characters who bugged the crap out of me. We got very little Gwen (hooray!), not much Tina (though I would have been happier with even less Tina, who is still REALLY annoying). Not many dumb officials - in the first book, we had a lot of doctors/cops/politicians/authority figures that were so horrible it made me think the world was just not worth saving. All of that was much less prevalent in this book, which is a big plus.
I also liked the story. I liked the background and depth that it provided to the mythology of the series, and really liked Aunt Mab. The plot and the way it unfolded was really a lot of fun to me. I also appreciated that the primary arc of the first 2 books wrapped at the end of this book (I love feeling like a story is making progress / going somewhere), and foundation was laid (unobtrusively!! yay!) for where we are going next.
Vicky was still occasionally dumb (leaping to inexplicable conclusions on at least one occasion that comes to mind), but it felt like she was much less dumb than in the first book. And more than that, she was now a participant in her world, the lack of which really irritated me in the first one. She takes a stand for what is right, and that earned her some respect from me.
Last, but certainly not least: Kane is yum. Mmmm.
Will definitely read book 3.
January 23, 2011
I thought Deadtown was really great so I was excited to get my hands on Hellforged and I have to say it definitely lived up to my expectations. I think in fact that I liked Hellforged better than I liked Deadtown!
I really loved the way Holzner delved deeper into the Cerddorion and Welsh mythology by sending Vicky to Wales to further her training with the formidable Aunt Mab. I grew up reading Greek and Norse mythology but this series is my first exposure to Welsh mythology and I find it entirely fascinating. While Deadtown focuses mainly on the Cerddorion, Vicky's family line, Hellforged goes further and introduces new areas of Welsh mythology.
While there is a lot of mythology, Holzner does a great job of balancing this with really exciting action. The last 100 (at least) pages are so exciting I couldn't put it down. Seriously, it was a Friday night, I was reading it at the gym and things got really exciting and so I continued to read it while making dinner and then I was with a group of friends and I was the one sitting in the corner reading and being completely antisocial. So please take this as a warning, once you get about 100 pages from the end, make sure you have a some time just to read!
Another thing I loved about Hellforged is Aunt Mab. In Deadtown, there are only a few brief scenes with Mab, but in Hellforged she becomes a major character (I hope we continue to see a lot of her!). Overall, Hellforged is an excellent installment in a really good urban fantasy series and I can't wait for Bloodstone (book 3)!
I really loved the way Holzner delved deeper into the Cerddorion and Welsh mythology by sending Vicky to Wales to further her training with the formidable Aunt Mab. I grew up reading Greek and Norse mythology but this series is my first exposure to Welsh mythology and I find it entirely fascinating. While Deadtown focuses mainly on the Cerddorion, Vicky's family line, Hellforged goes further and introduces new areas of Welsh mythology.
While there is a lot of mythology, Holzner does a great job of balancing this with really exciting action. The last 100 (at least) pages are so exciting I couldn't put it down. Seriously, it was a Friday night, I was reading it at the gym and things got really exciting and so I continued to read it while making dinner and then I was with a group of friends and I was the one sitting in the corner reading and being completely antisocial. So please take this as a warning, once you get about 100 pages from the end, make sure you have a some time just to read!
Another thing I loved about Hellforged is Aunt Mab. In Deadtown, there are only a few brief scenes with Mab, but in Hellforged she becomes a major character (I hope we continue to see a lot of her!). Overall, Hellforged is an excellent installment in a really good urban fantasy series and I can't wait for Bloodstone (book 3)!
October 30, 2011
Book Synopsis
A demon is stalking Vicky's dreams-just as several of Deadtown's zombies are viciously attacked and become really dead. And when Vicky realizes she is the only connection between the victims, she suspects that the demon is somehow working through her dreams to become Deadtown's living nightmare.
My Thoughts
2nd in the Deadtown series story that so captivated me when read the first novel starring Vicki Vaughn, demon hunter and all around in your face kick ass heroine!
This time Vicki is up against a bit more than she is ready for, demons are in her dreams where they do not belong and she has to enlist the aid of Aunt Mab in Wales to get up to speed on her fighting techniques to win the day. Dealing with the antics of the irepresible Zombie Tina at times makes her demon hunting job seems like a piece of cake in comparison to Vicki!
A lot of action, some romance, quite a bit of interesting lore to set up the demon worlds landscape and a traumatic fight scene that will have the reader on the edge of their seat hoping things turn out well for Mab and Vicki. All in all another rockin adventure in "Deadtown" that fans of Urban Fantasy will not want to miss!
[Author signed to me copy which was kindly sent along with book #3 [book:Bloodstone|10573557] when she heard my personal copy had been burned of books 1 and 2 in Labor Day wildfires. Cannot thank her enough and looking forward to Vicki's next adventure!]
March 9, 2016
2.5 Stars. I am discontinuing my reading of this series. Due to reasons included in my review of First book, which I've copied below:
"Unfortunately, this book left me with more feelings of indifference and dissatisfaction. I'm certainly a fan of paranormal romance and thriller novels. One series, very comparable in its array of paranormal characters included (vampires, werewolves, witches, & demons), is the Forever Evermore series by Scarlett Dawn (King Hall). The difference, however, Dawn's book is an example of a series I absolutely enjoyed and thought to be excellent. I highly recommend reading that series if you felt the same way about Deadtown as I. I struggled to find a good connection to Deadtown's main character, or to any other characters for that matter. It was a book that keeps you reading by providing a constant feeling of "so close, the real excitement is just one more page away". That feeling was the reason I finished the book and even took a chance with the second novel in series. Unfortunately, only thing each page brought was more disappointment. The excitement never came even by the last page of book one as well as book two. Having now also finished the 2nd book, I've decided to discontinue reading this series. It's a PG version of all other similar books I've read and lacks that intangible aspect that really pulls the other books together and makes the reader addicted to a series."
"Unfortunately, this book left me with more feelings of indifference and dissatisfaction. I'm certainly a fan of paranormal romance and thriller novels. One series, very comparable in its array of paranormal characters included (vampires, werewolves, witches, & demons), is the Forever Evermore series by Scarlett Dawn (King Hall). The difference, however, Dawn's book is an example of a series I absolutely enjoyed and thought to be excellent. I highly recommend reading that series if you felt the same way about Deadtown as I. I struggled to find a good connection to Deadtown's main character, or to any other characters for that matter. It was a book that keeps you reading by providing a constant feeling of "so close, the real excitement is just one more page away". That feeling was the reason I finished the book and even took a chance with the second novel in series. Unfortunately, only thing each page brought was more disappointment. The excitement never came even by the last page of book one as well as book two. Having now also finished the 2nd book, I've decided to discontinue reading this series. It's a PG version of all other similar books I've read and lacks that intangible aspect that really pulls the other books together and makes the reader addicted to a series."
June 30, 2016
I picked this up at a second-hand bookstore, unaware that it was the second in the series. I got major hints that I wasn't the series start when I started reading, but it hasn't been difficult at all to pick up what's going on in this second book. Kudos to the author for that! The concept for this world is a lot of fun, too. Definitely a fun read.
January 25, 2011
Originally posted at http://www.smexybooks.com/2011/01/rev...
Favorite Quote: “Tina! No waterboarding the client!”
Victory (Vicky) Vaughn is a demon slayer and a shapeshifter. In Deadtown she banished a nasty demon back to hell for good (she assumed) and gained herself a demon mark. But Vicky’s nasty demon is back-only this time in her dreams. When zombies turn up viciously torn apart and really dead, Vicky realizes that the demon is using her dreams as a doorway to her world. With her vampire roommate acting strange, her zombie apprentice seeking fame & fortune on stage, and her werewolf lover away on business, Vicky realizes that hell on earth is not merely a saying and the only person bringing it... is her.
Hellforged picks up not long after Deadtown. In here we divulge deeper into Vicky’s Welsh heritage and the mythology surrounding it. As Vicky ‘s dreams are getting more violent and she is finding herself trapped longer and longer in the dreamscape, her Aunt Mab demands she return to Wales to complete her final training. While in Wales we learn more about Vicky’s family and their connection to the Cerddorian race. Vicky trains and learns what she needs to stop the opening between our world and Hell.
The world building is further built upon in Hellforged. Ms. Holzner has a unique story telling ability that absorbs you and makes you a central participant. Smooth flowing and fast paced, I was once again enchanted with Vicky’s world and her friends. The Welsh mythology is convoluted though and drags the story down in parts as you try to make sense of the past and how Vicky fits into it. Yet, we need this explanation in order for the arc to progress. So it’s a give and take.
While I enjoyed this installment, I missed seeing the humor and spontaneity that was apparent in Deadtown. This one is more serious. The zombie/human commentary was hilarious in Deadtown.; especially from Tina, who is Vicky’s sidekick. You don’t see/hear much of either and it shows.
I enjoyed the deeper development of Vicky and Kane’s relationship though I really don’t understand her attraction to Danial. I feel it’s more of “wanting what is visible” since Kane is gone a lot on business. Even though the we do see some revelations, it still remains a small part of the series as a whole.
The secondary characters are further expanded upon and snarky as ever. Juliet is more visible and seems to be getting herself in a spot of trouble. Vicky interacts more with the Goon Squad with some interesting results. Tina is a treat (when we see her) as always though she seemed more self involved and whiny here. But, that’s a teenager for you.
Our villian(s) are quite fearsome and enhance the suspense and action perfectly as the full gist of the plot is revealed to us. One thing that surprised me was that Vicky didn’t pick up on clues as quickly as before and it took others to show her quite a few times where she went wrong.
Our ending is explosive and we are left with some unanswered questions that lead us well into the next installment.
All in all, a nice journey back into the wonderful world of zombies, demons, and demon fighter extraordinaire Vicky Vaughn. I do hope in the next installment we go back to Deadtown and spend a little more time in my favorite city.
Rating: C+
Favorite Quote: “Tina! No waterboarding the client!”
Victory (Vicky) Vaughn is a demon slayer and a shapeshifter. In Deadtown she banished a nasty demon back to hell for good (she assumed) and gained herself a demon mark. But Vicky’s nasty demon is back-only this time in her dreams. When zombies turn up viciously torn apart and really dead, Vicky realizes that the demon is using her dreams as a doorway to her world. With her vampire roommate acting strange, her zombie apprentice seeking fame & fortune on stage, and her werewolf lover away on business, Vicky realizes that hell on earth is not merely a saying and the only person bringing it... is her.
Hellforged picks up not long after Deadtown. In here we divulge deeper into Vicky’s Welsh heritage and the mythology surrounding it. As Vicky ‘s dreams are getting more violent and she is finding herself trapped longer and longer in the dreamscape, her Aunt Mab demands she return to Wales to complete her final training. While in Wales we learn more about Vicky’s family and their connection to the Cerddorian race. Vicky trains and learns what she needs to stop the opening between our world and Hell.
The world building is further built upon in Hellforged. Ms. Holzner has a unique story telling ability that absorbs you and makes you a central participant. Smooth flowing and fast paced, I was once again enchanted with Vicky’s world and her friends. The Welsh mythology is convoluted though and drags the story down in parts as you try to make sense of the past and how Vicky fits into it. Yet, we need this explanation in order for the arc to progress. So it’s a give and take.
While I enjoyed this installment, I missed seeing the humor and spontaneity that was apparent in Deadtown. This one is more serious. The zombie/human commentary was hilarious in Deadtown.; especially from Tina, who is Vicky’s sidekick. You don’t see/hear much of either and it shows.
I enjoyed the deeper development of Vicky and Kane’s relationship though I really don’t understand her attraction to Danial. I feel it’s more of “wanting what is visible” since Kane is gone a lot on business. Even though the we do see some revelations, it still remains a small part of the series as a whole.
The secondary characters are further expanded upon and snarky as ever. Juliet is more visible and seems to be getting herself in a spot of trouble. Vicky interacts more with the Goon Squad with some interesting results. Tina is a treat (when we see her) as always though she seemed more self involved and whiny here. But, that’s a teenager for you.
Our villian(s) are quite fearsome and enhance the suspense and action perfectly as the full gist of the plot is revealed to us. One thing that surprised me was that Vicky didn’t pick up on clues as quickly as before and it took others to show her quite a few times where she went wrong.
Our ending is explosive and we are left with some unanswered questions that lead us well into the next installment.
All in all, a nice journey back into the wonderful world of zombies, demons, and demon fighter extraordinaire Vicky Vaughn. I do hope in the next installment we go back to Deadtown and spend a little more time in my favorite city.
Rating: C+
July 15, 2011
Plot: 5 Stars
I love, love, love the world that the author has created. From the non-traditional zombies to the different kinds of demons, it's all very unique and creative. I also enjoy the politics surrounding PAs, or Paranormal Americans. Their fight for civil rights really rings true to me, because in a way it's a lot like what the LGBT community is fighting for right now. It almost brings a personal aspect to the novel for me, the way I relate so well to these Paranormal Americans that just want to be treated fairly. But back to the novel at hand... It was amazing for me to read this novel with so many strings of different plot elements blowing in the wind, and then watch all of these seemingly random events wrap up together so succinctly in the end.
Pace: 4 Stars
The first third of this novel flew by. One event after another had Victory going in every direction. But the second third sputtered for a minute. While Victory was in Wales, studying and practicing with Mab, there were times were it got a touch repetitive. There was just a tiny bit too much reading from The Book of Utter Darkness, a tiny bit too much learning to control Hellforged (the athame). It just needed a bit more action packed into it. But the final third of the book kicks off with a punch (or glitch) while they're flying back to Boston and it doesn't let go until the end. It was a race to the end, full of twist and turns and more questions.
Characters: 4 Stars
As much as I loved the plot of this novel, I wish more of the events could've taken place in Boston. Victory spends so much time in Wales, that many characters don't get nearly enough face time. I really, really missed Tina throughout this book. As much as she can annoy me at times, I still find her character hilarious, and would've liked to witness a bit more of her rise to stardom. Although Kane was around a bit more than I thought he would be, I still want to know more about him. It was great to see more of Mab, and to get to visit her in Wales. And I can't wait for the next novel, because I really want to know what's going on with Juliet.
Cover: 5 Stars
Again. I will say it again. Two words: Flaming sword. Although Victory never uses the flaming sword in this novel, it still exists, therefore it is welcome on the covers. So many of the details on the cover are 100% to the story, and it amazes me. The athame on her thigh, the crows in the sky, the slate headstones... Even the cover model's haircut. It's not very often such accuracy happens. The color palette for this novel is very eye-catching, although after reading I would've expected something darker considering the darkness surrounding the morfran and the book. But my favorite part is the celtic-like design behind the title.
Overall: 4.5 Stars
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via the author.
I love, love, love the world that the author has created. From the non-traditional zombies to the different kinds of demons, it's all very unique and creative. I also enjoy the politics surrounding PAs, or Paranormal Americans. Their fight for civil rights really rings true to me, because in a way it's a lot like what the LGBT community is fighting for right now. It almost brings a personal aspect to the novel for me, the way I relate so well to these Paranormal Americans that just want to be treated fairly. But back to the novel at hand... It was amazing for me to read this novel with so many strings of different plot elements blowing in the wind, and then watch all of these seemingly random events wrap up together so succinctly in the end.
Pace: 4 Stars
The first third of this novel flew by. One event after another had Victory going in every direction. But the second third sputtered for a minute. While Victory was in Wales, studying and practicing with Mab, there were times were it got a touch repetitive. There was just a tiny bit too much reading from The Book of Utter Darkness, a tiny bit too much learning to control Hellforged (the athame). It just needed a bit more action packed into it. But the final third of the book kicks off with a punch (or glitch) while they're flying back to Boston and it doesn't let go until the end. It was a race to the end, full of twist and turns and more questions.
Characters: 4 Stars
As much as I loved the plot of this novel, I wish more of the events could've taken place in Boston. Victory spends so much time in Wales, that many characters don't get nearly enough face time. I really, really missed Tina throughout this book. As much as she can annoy me at times, I still find her character hilarious, and would've liked to witness a bit more of her rise to stardom. Although Kane was around a bit more than I thought he would be, I still want to know more about him. It was great to see more of Mab, and to get to visit her in Wales. And I can't wait for the next novel, because I really want to know what's going on with Juliet.
Cover: 5 Stars
Again. I will say it again. Two words: Flaming sword. Although Victory never uses the flaming sword in this novel, it still exists, therefore it is welcome on the covers. So many of the details on the cover are 100% to the story, and it amazes me. The athame on her thigh, the crows in the sky, the slate headstones... Even the cover model's haircut. It's not very often such accuracy happens. The color palette for this novel is very eye-catching, although after reading I would've expected something darker considering the darkness surrounding the morfran and the book. But my favorite part is the celtic-like design behind the title.
Overall: 4.5 Stars
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via the author.
December 27, 2010
Find the original posted on Paperback Dolls.com
When we left Victory Vaughn last year in Deadtown, Ms.Holzner’s debut, she was confused, battered, and a little broken from sending the Hellion, Difethwr the Destroyer, to Hell. Now almost six months later she’s entirely recovered. Well... unless you count that demon mark still burning up her arm. O.. or the confusion of choosing between to delectable men. But whose counting?
Beginning Hellforged is Ms. Holzner’s unmistakable fast paced fighting style. Vicky’s on a job to take care of a Glitch with her sidekick Tina when things get out of control which is usually just an example of another days hard work. Except this day is the last time anything will make since for our demon slayer for quite sometime, because when she goes home from Creature Comforts later that night to get a little shut eye, her dream-scape is invaded by none other than the Destroyer himself.
Here is where Hellforged slows down. Vicky’s Aunt Mab calls her home to Maenllyd in Wales to "finish her training". While she’s there, it’s a constant schedule for Vicky of taking that next step in her demon education. The second prophecy at her birth has been set in motion and now Vicky’s trying her hardest to make sure The Book of Utter Darkness’s edict doesn’t become her fate.
So, I know everyone wants to know of what has happened in the Vicky, sexy were-wolf attorney Alexander Kane and gorgeous Detective Daniel Costello love triangle, but I’m going to disappoint. There’s honestly nothing I can tell what with Vicky being in Wales for over half the book and then the other half being too spoilery. In reality, there isn't much romance what-so-ever. In UF's I don't expect to have a romance, but if there is a presence of one, I do expect some growth of character for those of romantic interest to which I found Hellforged lacking in. However, I will say that Vicky does choose by the end (for now ;)) and I am really happy by her choice.
By the end, Hellforged did bring back all the heart pumping, pulse racing, edge-of-your-seat action that we saw in Deadtown. Though we missed out on the comical zombie aspect to which I think makes this series so great. Ms. Holzner’s writing style keeps me turning those pages, but her ending is what has me hoping that the next in the series releases sooner rather than later. Ms. Holzner your slight cliff-hanger ending was not nice.
When we left Victory Vaughn last year in Deadtown, Ms.Holzner’s debut, she was confused, battered, and a little broken from sending the Hellion, Difethwr the Destroyer, to Hell. Now almost six months later she’s entirely recovered. Well... unless you count that demon mark still burning up her arm. O.. or the confusion of choosing between to delectable men. But whose counting?
Beginning Hellforged is Ms. Holzner’s unmistakable fast paced fighting style. Vicky’s on a job to take care of a Glitch with her sidekick Tina when things get out of control which is usually just an example of another days hard work. Except this day is the last time anything will make since for our demon slayer for quite sometime, because when she goes home from Creature Comforts later that night to get a little shut eye, her dream-scape is invaded by none other than the Destroyer himself.
Here is where Hellforged slows down. Vicky’s Aunt Mab calls her home to Maenllyd in Wales to "finish her training". While she’s there, it’s a constant schedule for Vicky of taking that next step in her demon education. The second prophecy at her birth has been set in motion and now Vicky’s trying her hardest to make sure The Book of Utter Darkness’s edict doesn’t become her fate.
So, I know everyone wants to know of what has happened in the Vicky, sexy were-wolf attorney Alexander Kane and gorgeous Detective Daniel Costello love triangle, but I’m going to disappoint. There’s honestly nothing I can tell what with Vicky being in Wales for over half the book and then the other half being too spoilery. In reality, there isn't much romance what-so-ever. In UF's I don't expect to have a romance, but if there is a presence of one, I do expect some growth of character for those of romantic interest to which I found Hellforged lacking in. However, I will say that Vicky does choose by the end (for now ;)) and I am really happy by her choice.
By the end, Hellforged did bring back all the heart pumping, pulse racing, edge-of-your-seat action that we saw in Deadtown. Though we missed out on the comical zombie aspect to which I think makes this series so great. Ms. Holzner’s writing style keeps me turning those pages, but her ending is what has me hoping that the next in the series releases sooner rather than later. Ms. Holzner your slight cliff-hanger ending was not nice.
September 22, 2011
The demon Difethwr Victory thought she banished; has infiltrated her dreams just as zombies in Deadtown start to disapear into a puddle of goo. Her fight with the demon is far from over as she makes a stand too close to her Welsh home and the family she loves. In Hellforged, Victory Vaughn is back and trying to pick up her life as a demon slayer for hire. Need any pesky critters removed and Victory is your girl. Too bad her love life is still far from stellar, but when she reconnects with Aunt Mab in Wales, things heat up. Including new training with a demon banishing knife called Hellforged and then all hell breaks loose.
I liked Deadtown very much and appreciated Nancy Holzner's new protag Victory Vaughn, the resident demon slayer in zombie filled Deadtown. Yes folks a town teeming with zombies who live, EAT, work and breathe in a town of their own. Albiet quarantined but nevertheless their own. Victory continues her career of riding humans of their personal demons for cash. Whether it's in your dreams or in your machinery, she can get the job done with her trusty Glitch Gone spray. Her zombie slayer protege' Tina, who has decided to pursue a career as a back-up singer in a rock zombie band instead of studying, is not along for the ride this time.
Nancy Holzner writes a much more mythologically detailed book this time as well as an insightfull look into her characters. She brings to light the same struggles us humans deal with, like the loss of friends, dealing with bigotry and civil rights for all. Her much hated character Norden, a human cop on the Goon Squad, surprisingly shows us he does have feelings after all. Victory may have a few more things to learn about life but that's what growing up is all about and I wouldn't want her to learn too fast as that would mean an end to the series. Her writing style and delving deeper into what makes her characters tick, turns pages and keeps a consistent and coherent storyline throughout both books.
With so many authors in this genre that do not deliver isn't it refreshing that Nancy Holzner does just that.
I liked Deadtown very much and appreciated Nancy Holzner's new protag Victory Vaughn, the resident demon slayer in zombie filled Deadtown. Yes folks a town teeming with zombies who live, EAT, work and breathe in a town of their own. Albiet quarantined but nevertheless their own. Victory continues her career of riding humans of their personal demons for cash. Whether it's in your dreams or in your machinery, she can get the job done with her trusty Glitch Gone spray. Her zombie slayer protege' Tina, who has decided to pursue a career as a back-up singer in a rock zombie band instead of studying, is not along for the ride this time.
Nancy Holzner writes a much more mythologically detailed book this time as well as an insightfull look into her characters. She brings to light the same struggles us humans deal with, like the loss of friends, dealing with bigotry and civil rights for all. Her much hated character Norden, a human cop on the Goon Squad, surprisingly shows us he does have feelings after all. Victory may have a few more things to learn about life but that's what growing up is all about and I wouldn't want her to learn too fast as that would mean an end to the series. Her writing style and delving deeper into what makes her characters tick, turns pages and keeps a consistent and coherent storyline throughout both books.
With so many authors in this genre that do not deliver isn't it refreshing that Nancy Holzner does just that.
October 25, 2011
For most of Hellforged the cast is pretty small. We don’t get to see much of the secondary characters, since Vicky spends a large part of the book in Wales studying with her Aunt Mab.
The first part Hellforged is in Boston and there is something killing the zombies in Deadtown. And something even weirder is going on with Vicky’s roommate, Juliet. Vicky’s not sure if two things are connected and asks for info from Detective Daniel about the zombie cases.
Speaking of Daniel, things between him and Vicky are still just friendly until she tells him that she is leaving town for a few weeks. He gives her a toe curling kiss to remember him by while she is gone.
Kane is still in Washington, DC working on civil rights for the paranormal community. He and Vicky talk whenever their busy schedules allow them. And that’s about all for the romance department until the last half of the book.
After speaking with her Aunt, Vicky makes a quick flight to Wales to get help with a past evil. This part of Hellforged was a little slow but we get to learn a little more about Mab and meet a new evil character that Vicky battles throughout the book.
Once Vicky gets on the airplane to return to Boston the action doesn’t stop. The bad guys are taken down and a there is a few new develops in the romance department. There are a few unanswered questions about the weirdness that is going on with Juliet and a great setup for the 3rd book in the series, Bloodstone.
I have Bloodstone sitting on my shelf and I can’t wait to dig in to see what happens next. I love this series. Fans of Urban Fantasies like Kate Daniels and Jaz Parks will want to check this series out.
January 3, 2011
I really liked the first book in this series, Deadtown, when it came out last year, so I'd been looking forward to the release of the second one, Hellforged. You never know which way a new author is going to go in a second book--sometimes it is a disappointment, and sometimes you are hooked for life.
Nancy Holzner is definitely in the second category. After reading Hellforged, I can safely say that I will eagerly read anything that has her name on the book jacket. Hellforged was a wild ride from start to finish, with barely a chance to catch my breath before the next disaster befell the protagonist, Vicky Vaughn.
The world of Deadtown was just as well-drawn in this book as it was in the first one, but this time much of the action took place in Wales. (The Wales of Holzner's world, of course, complete with demons, shapechangers, and flesh-eating crows. What were you expecting, Disney?) The setting was fascinating, and I loved the chance to get to know Victory's fabulous aunt Mab. All my favorite characters from the first book were there, including the sexy Kane (yum), Vicky's vampire roommate Juliet (yes, THAT Juliet), and teen zombie Tina. But this time there was a new villain, a new challenge, and a whole lot of creepy. It's worth reading just to find out why you need to carry hairspray whenever you fly.
I can't wait for Ms. Holzner's next book. Write faster, Nancy. Write faster.
Nancy Holzner is definitely in the second category. After reading Hellforged, I can safely say that I will eagerly read anything that has her name on the book jacket. Hellforged was a wild ride from start to finish, with barely a chance to catch my breath before the next disaster befell the protagonist, Vicky Vaughn.
The world of Deadtown was just as well-drawn in this book as it was in the first one, but this time much of the action took place in Wales. (The Wales of Holzner's world, of course, complete with demons, shapechangers, and flesh-eating crows. What were you expecting, Disney?) The setting was fascinating, and I loved the chance to get to know Victory's fabulous aunt Mab. All my favorite characters from the first book were there, including the sexy Kane (yum), Vicky's vampire roommate Juliet (yes, THAT Juliet), and teen zombie Tina. But this time there was a new villain, a new challenge, and a whole lot of creepy. It's worth reading just to find out why you need to carry hairspray whenever you fly.
I can't wait for Ms. Holzner's next book. Write faster, Nancy. Write faster.
February 8, 2011
This eagerly awaited (by me) sequel to Deadtown starts off with an enthralling scene where demon killer Victory is hunting down demon-infested computers called "Glitches." She defeats it after some rather squishy-icky results. Victory is still haunted by the Hellion she is bonded to and he seems to have infested her dreams.
Then zombies, otherwise known as previously deceased humans, start dying after talking with her. Getting no support or information from the police, paranormal or otherwise, she contacts her teacher, mentor and aunt, who summons Victory to Wales with the exhortation not to sleep until she gets there.
On the way, she encounters a distant cousin who is mysterious and somewhat creepy. As her Aunt steps up her training for a showdown, the role of her cousin becomes truly menancing. Her training is complicated by her bond to the Hellion, the reappearance of her werewolf lover, and the growing sense of the ultimate showdown.
An exciting and engrossing book, with lots of underlying humor and knowledge. As a college librarian, I was especially charmed by a scene on the plane where Victory meets the head of libraries at Harvard who is also an amateur demonologist, along with an interesting and accurate discussion of the dilemma of cataloging works on demonology in Library of Congress classification system. A great story, well told with humor and excitement.
Then zombies, otherwise known as previously deceased humans, start dying after talking with her. Getting no support or information from the police, paranormal or otherwise, she contacts her teacher, mentor and aunt, who summons Victory to Wales with the exhortation not to sleep until she gets there.
On the way, she encounters a distant cousin who is mysterious and somewhat creepy. As her Aunt steps up her training for a showdown, the role of her cousin becomes truly menancing. Her training is complicated by her bond to the Hellion, the reappearance of her werewolf lover, and the growing sense of the ultimate showdown.
An exciting and engrossing book, with lots of underlying humor and knowledge. As a college librarian, I was especially charmed by a scene on the plane where Victory meets the head of libraries at Harvard who is also an amateur demonologist, along with an interesting and accurate discussion of the dilemma of cataloging works on demonology in Library of Congress classification system. A great story, well told with humor and excitement.
August 24, 2011
Vicky Vaughn is a shape shifting demon slayer. But it seems things are going downhill fast. Her zombie apprentice has decided that she would rather be a backup singer in the only zombie rock band. The Destroyer, the demon bound to Vicky, is invading her dreams, and zombies are being turned into black goo.
Vicky breaks down and asks her Aunt Mab for help and is told to get home and not to fall asleep until she is there. Vicky learns that a demi-demon, Pryce, has found a prophecy that says the two of them are going to have children and this is supposed to bring Hell to this plane.
Now Vicky is trying to interpret The Book of Utter Darkness and train to fight Pryce and his shadow demon. But it seems like everything is against her, and the book keeps talking about the same prophecy that Pryce is insistent about without any other interpretation possible.
When Kane flies over to share the latest news with Vicky about him being framed for murder, Vicky is still trying to figure out where they are in a relationship and how to protect him from the evil trying to take over.
I really liked this book. Even though things just keep getting worse, Vicky keeps struggling through. I really liked learning more about Mab since she was introduced in Deadtown. I also like how the story finished but leaves the possibility for sequels. I do admit that Tina really annoyed me and I hope she is not in the next one.
Vicky breaks down and asks her Aunt Mab for help and is told to get home and not to fall asleep until she is there. Vicky learns that a demi-demon, Pryce, has found a prophecy that says the two of them are going to have children and this is supposed to bring Hell to this plane.
Now Vicky is trying to interpret The Book of Utter Darkness and train to fight Pryce and his shadow demon. But it seems like everything is against her, and the book keeps talking about the same prophecy that Pryce is insistent about without any other interpretation possible.
When Kane flies over to share the latest news with Vicky about him being framed for murder, Vicky is still trying to figure out where they are in a relationship and how to protect him from the evil trying to take over.
I really liked this book. Even though things just keep getting worse, Vicky keeps struggling through. I really liked learning more about Mab since she was introduced in Deadtown. I also like how the story finished but leaves the possibility for sequels. I do admit that Tina really annoyed me and I hope she is not in the next one.
January 27, 2011
3.5 stars
The second book from the Deadtown series is slightly better for me. Maybe because I have warmed up with the characters this time around. The story is opened with action, as Vicky tries to destroy Glitch demons. Then all sort of troubles appear, when zombies are killed, and it happens when The Destroyer comes into Vicky's dream. I feel bad for the zombies -- though a couple of them only appeared in short scene but I feel for them *sob*.
The main focus of this story is the prophecy that seems to say that Vicky is meant to carry demi-demon's children. In order to deal with her dreams, Vicky returns to Wales to get training from her aunt, Mab. It's nice to get more Mab's scenes in this book. She sounds like a firm, strong-willed, but powerful being.
Kane returns as Vicky's love-interest ... and this time, I find myself supporting them. It's nice to have a love interest who is a lawyer; there are too many love-interest who are members of the police department or federal agent :). Plus, I always love werewolves. Detective Daniel can have his own love interest in other female character, please ...
There is a future storyline being introduced; with Juliet, Vicky's roommate missing, and it seems that old generations of vampires are coming ... but I think it will be more explained in Book 3.
The second book from the Deadtown series is slightly better for me. Maybe because I have warmed up with the characters this time around. The story is opened with action, as Vicky tries to destroy Glitch demons. Then all sort of troubles appear, when zombies are killed, and it happens when The Destroyer comes into Vicky's dream. I feel bad for the zombies -- though a couple of them only appeared in short scene but I feel for them *sob*.
The main focus of this story is the prophecy that seems to say that Vicky is meant to carry demi-demon's children. In order to deal with her dreams, Vicky returns to Wales to get training from her aunt, Mab. It's nice to get more Mab's scenes in this book. She sounds like a firm, strong-willed, but powerful being.
Kane returns as Vicky's love-interest ... and this time, I find myself supporting them. It's nice to have a love interest who is a lawyer; there are too many love-interest who are members of the police department or federal agent :). Plus, I always love werewolves. Detective Daniel can have his own love interest in other female character, please ...
There is a future storyline being introduced; with Juliet, Vicky's roommate missing, and it seems that old generations of vampires are coming ... but I think it will be more explained in Book 3.
December 29, 2012
It's no secret that I love urban fantasy novels and read a bunch of series in this great genre, so I've been catching up lately...
Vicky is a demon exterminator and gets off to an electrifying start while dealing with a Glitch. But when her dreamscape is compromised by a powerful demon from her past, and zombies start dying around her, she's forced to go to Wales for further training with her aunt, Mab.
However, as soon as she gets there, she meets the very creepy, Pryce--who calls himself her cousin--and finds out that her destiny is a very dark one. And will probably lead her straight to hell...
Wow. This was an excellent book, and a great installment to this very interesting UF series. There's a bit of everything--Welsh mythology, mystery, romance, fighting, cool weapons, and a frustrating villain. But the best thing about this book was Vicky herself. No matter how hurt or how hard things got, she never gave up. Mab is also a great character and I'd love to know more about her past.
Loved it! Good thing I've got the next book on my bookshelf already. :)
Vicky is a demon exterminator and gets off to an electrifying start while dealing with a Glitch. But when her dreamscape is compromised by a powerful demon from her past, and zombies start dying around her, she's forced to go to Wales for further training with her aunt, Mab.
However, as soon as she gets there, she meets the very creepy, Pryce--who calls himself her cousin--and finds out that her destiny is a very dark one. And will probably lead her straight to hell...
Wow. This was an excellent book, and a great installment to this very interesting UF series. There's a bit of everything--Welsh mythology, mystery, romance, fighting, cool weapons, and a frustrating villain. But the best thing about this book was Vicky herself. No matter how hurt or how hard things got, she never gave up. Mab is also a great character and I'd love to know more about her past.
Loved it! Good thing I've got the next book on my bookshelf already. :)
March 12, 2015
Hellforged was a respectable enough sequel to Deadtown. Holzner's style shines through, and her pacing once again feels slightly off-balanced, albeit not really. It's just that the middle 70% of the novel takes place in Wales, and while this is something we certainly wanted to see after book 1, I feel like we really just wanted to see who Aunt Mab was and we didn't truly get enough of that. Mab was present, but we still don't really know her.
In the meanwhile, the action was lacking for the first 2/3 of the novel while Vicky gets her butt kicked, and then comes out swinging by the end. I also felt like the demise of one of the three villains was a bit anti-climactic, as they ended up collateral damage. A number of other issues were left unaddressed, and after novel 1 felt like it was taking Vicky one way in the love triangle, we've been forced back the other way now.
In spite of my ability to harp on the negative though, it was still an enjoyable read. There's a decent enough chance I'll go looking for a copy of Bloodstone.
In the meanwhile, the action was lacking for the first 2/3 of the novel while Vicky gets her butt kicked, and then comes out swinging by the end. I also felt like the demise of one of the three villains was a bit anti-climactic, as they ended up collateral damage. A number of other issues were left unaddressed, and after novel 1 felt like it was taking Vicky one way in the love triangle, we've been forced back the other way now.
In spite of my ability to harp on the negative though, it was still an enjoyable read. There's a decent enough chance I'll go looking for a copy of Bloodstone.
July 15, 2011
I enjoyed the second book of this series. It was not quite 4 stars but I always round up. Victory again finds herself up against her nemesis, The Destroyer, a Hellion that she is bound to. In addition to this returning foe, she also faces a demi-demon, Pryce, who is the proclaimed King of Uffran (hell). Kane returns in this book from his lobbying in D.C. and Vicky must choose between their on-again/off-again relationship or her still-new relationship with Daniel, the Boston PD Detective. After complaining that the first book did not develop Vicky's relationships better to make her more personable as a heroine, I think that Ms. Holzner does spend more time on that in this novel. I enjoyed the challenges that Vicky was forced to face in this book and look forward to Bloodstone (9.27.2011 release date)
November 17, 2011
Ooooh, the second book in this series was good! Victory Vaughn is a demon hunter and shapeshifter and she has some work to do AFTER continuing her training. She has to face her greatest fear, the hellion she banished to hell in the first book (also the demon who killed her father years before) along with a host of other demons and imps and glitches. She also has to choose between two romantic interests. Good stuff.
April 18, 2012
Hellforged was pretty good - especially towards the end.
there were still plenty of times when Vicky wasnt very BadAss Demon Killer but i can live with that, though i hope to god she doesnt let Tine become an apprentice again.
im really glad Vicky and kane got back together, Daniel was a bit to fickle when it came to the opposite sex.
im looking forward to reading the next book and seeing what trouble Juliet has gotten herself into
there were still plenty of times when Vicky wasnt very BadAss Demon Killer but i can live with that, though i hope to god she doesnt let Tine become an apprentice again.
im really glad Vicky and kane got back together, Daniel was a bit to fickle when it came to the opposite sex.
im looking forward to reading the next book and seeing what trouble Juliet has gotten herself into
August 23, 2016
Ok so I really like Vicky she is kickass and she can hold her own. But the whole Wales section seemed to go on forever when basically we were reading a book about reading as book! I liked the start and end, basically the parts in Boston, but I didn't like the middle so it only gets 3*'s.
January 8, 2011
tonight Michelle tonight
should get it out to you tomorrow
should get it out to you tomorrow
March 5, 2011
The second book in this series had a new and an old evil.
Glad to see that she decided to be with the wolf.
Glad to see that she decided to be with the wolf.
August 26, 2019
🤕 My dude took the news rather well and totally melted into that breakup, 🤧 wait, that isn't a Spoiler is it?
September 1, 2020
I'm liking this series more and more. Vicky is such a great heroine. And the romance isn't overbearing like in the later Anita Blake novels.
October 16, 2021
I enjoyed this book. The story flowed and made sense. Ready for book 3.
February 20, 2022
On my TBR pile for about a decade, I followed up with book 2 in this series. I read through my original review for book one...book two was even less enchanting for me. I didn't recall I had such hate on Tina in the first book. Let's just say that Hellforged didn't improve my impression of Tina. And my wish from book one did not come true. This book is also not about Tina, but about Vicky. Vicky who is kind of a rocky character for me.
To read the rest of my review, click on the image below to see it on my website.
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To read the rest of my review, click on the image below to see it on my website.
January 30, 2019
To read more reviews in this series and others, check out keikii eats books!
88 points/100 (4 ½ stars/5)
Zombies are turning up dead, just a stain and a bad smell leftover, and Vicky has no idea why. Not until the Hellion from Deadtown, The Destroyer, turns up in her dreams, calling on the bond the two have. When her Aunt Mab finds out, Vicky is recalled to Wales for more training and help. There is something sinister going on with The Destroyer.
A solid follow up to Deadtown, Hellforged continues the tale of Vicky's revenge over her father's killer and the demons she hunts. We learn a lot more about this world and Vicky, and I really like it. Though I do happen to hate prophecy.
The zombies are one of the most interesting things about the series, because of how little we know about them and how unique they are. They don't fit anywhere, and they barely fit as zombies. And now they're exploding or something, which no one has ever seen before. We end up finding out a lot about the zombies in this book over the course of it. Hellforged is less political, overall, than Deadtown, but the start of the book is heavy with it. The chief of police doesn't care about dead zombies "because they're already dead" and refuses to investigate it at all.
I really enjoyed the Wales section of the book, too. It is the reason why I felt like the book had pacing problems, but it was super interesting. It is mostly a really long training section, so Vicky has the tools and knowledge necessary fight the Destroyer. There is also a new enemy, Percy, who is working with the Destroyer..sort of. It is all tied in family history. We learn a lot of the history of the Demons and the Cerddorion (shapeshifter) race. I was interested in it, even if it felt a bit long and sometimes felt a bit like an infodump.
The section was also long because of the Prophecy that unfolded throughout it. I really, really dislike prophecy because of exactly the reasons this book gives for its existence. The prophecy unfolds in dribs and drabs throughout a large portion of the book. This is all new, of course, because Vicky didn't really know about it before (except for her dad's naming of her). Of course, pretty much every part they learn about they manage to misinterpret. Because that is the only point of prophecies in books - to mislead the main character the entire way. Because that is fun somehow.
I like Vicky even more in this one than I did the last. She just felt so real to me. In almost every single urban fantasy series, the main character is perfect and never fails at what they set out to do - unless the author needs them to like when they want the enemy to get the upper hand on them for a bit. This isn't the case with Vicky. During her training, she fails all the time. She messes up, she forgets, she freezes, she struggles. It is refreshing to have a character not be perfect at everything they set out to do until they aren't. I really like her aunt Mab during these scenes, too. Patient, but also pushes her to do better than Vicky thinks she could do.
Vicky also seems really lonely this book, she isn't having a good time. First she wasn't allowed to sleep forever, then she has to go to Wales where there is only her aunt and a few family servants. You realise just how little Vicky has in the way of people. She has a roommate who is currently MIA, a sister who isn't talking to her, two potential boyfriends (one who is too skittish to start anything with her, and the other who is never around), and the only friends we see are those who talk to her for a second or are using her.
Her roommate, Juliet is missing because she got in over her head with a situation and had to flee. There is just some really weird stuff going on with Juliet, none of which is solved in Hellforged, we'll have to figure out what it is later. Daniel, the cop, really just feels like someone Vicky is going to use the entire series when she needs to - but it ends amiably at least so for. The asshole boyfriend, Kane, is back unfortunately. (I really hoped I had misremembered him being around the entire time). At least he isn't an asshole, and actually becomes sort of helpful.
Also, I really, really, really hate Tina, the unhelpful teenage zombie apprentice. She is so selfish and self absorbed. I think Vicky is doing the right thing by cutting her loose. Vicky doesn't have the time or patient to deal with Tina's whims when she has so much else going on. Vicky really isn't cut out for being a mother right now. I just..that teenage attitude Tina has is so horrible and I hate having to read it right now.
I enjoyed reading the book. It obviously isn't without its issues, but overall enjoyable. The ending was once again very quick. That seems to be the way the series is going to go. Very long buildup, very quick ending.
88 points/100 (4 ½ stars/5)
Zombies are turning up dead, just a stain and a bad smell leftover, and Vicky has no idea why. Not until the Hellion from Deadtown, The Destroyer, turns up in her dreams, calling on the bond the two have. When her Aunt Mab finds out, Vicky is recalled to Wales for more training and help. There is something sinister going on with The Destroyer.
A solid follow up to Deadtown, Hellforged continues the tale of Vicky's revenge over her father's killer and the demons she hunts. We learn a lot more about this world and Vicky, and I really like it. Though I do happen to hate prophecy.
The zombies are one of the most interesting things about the series, because of how little we know about them and how unique they are. They don't fit anywhere, and they barely fit as zombies. And now they're exploding or something, which no one has ever seen before. We end up finding out a lot about the zombies in this book over the course of it. Hellforged is less political, overall, than Deadtown, but the start of the book is heavy with it. The chief of police doesn't care about dead zombies "because they're already dead" and refuses to investigate it at all.
I really enjoyed the Wales section of the book, too. It is the reason why I felt like the book had pacing problems, but it was super interesting. It is mostly a really long training section, so Vicky has the tools and knowledge necessary fight the Destroyer. There is also a new enemy, Percy, who is working with the Destroyer..sort of. It is all tied in family history. We learn a lot of the history of the Demons and the Cerddorion (shapeshifter) race. I was interested in it, even if it felt a bit long and sometimes felt a bit like an infodump.
The section was also long because of the Prophecy that unfolded throughout it. I really, really dislike prophecy because of exactly the reasons this book gives for its existence. The prophecy unfolds in dribs and drabs throughout a large portion of the book. This is all new, of course, because Vicky didn't really know about it before (except for her dad's naming of her). Of course, pretty much every part they learn about they manage to misinterpret. Because that is the only point of prophecies in books - to mislead the main character the entire way. Because that is fun somehow.
I like Vicky even more in this one than I did the last. She just felt so real to me. In almost every single urban fantasy series, the main character is perfect and never fails at what they set out to do - unless the author needs them to like when they want the enemy to get the upper hand on them for a bit. This isn't the case with Vicky. During her training, she fails all the time. She messes up, she forgets, she freezes, she struggles. It is refreshing to have a character not be perfect at everything they set out to do until they aren't. I really like her aunt Mab during these scenes, too. Patient, but also pushes her to do better than Vicky thinks she could do.
Vicky also seems really lonely this book, she isn't having a good time. First she wasn't allowed to sleep forever, then she has to go to Wales where there is only her aunt and a few family servants. You realise just how little Vicky has in the way of people. She has a roommate who is currently MIA, a sister who isn't talking to her, two potential boyfriends (one who is too skittish to start anything with her, and the other who is never around), and the only friends we see are those who talk to her for a second or are using her.
Her roommate, Juliet is missing because she got in over her head with a situation and had to flee. There is just some really weird stuff going on with Juliet, none of which is solved in Hellforged, we'll have to figure out what it is later. Daniel, the cop, really just feels like someone Vicky is going to use the entire series when she needs to - but it ends amiably at least so for. The asshole boyfriend, Kane, is back unfortunately. (I really hoped I had misremembered him being around the entire time). At least he isn't an asshole, and actually becomes sort of helpful.
Also, I really, really, really hate Tina, the unhelpful teenage zombie apprentice. She is so selfish and self absorbed. I think Vicky is doing the right thing by cutting her loose. Vicky doesn't have the time or patient to deal with Tina's whims when she has so much else going on. Vicky really isn't cut out for being a mother right now. I just..that teenage attitude Tina has is so horrible and I hate having to read it right now.
I enjoyed reading the book. It obviously isn't without its issues, but overall enjoyable. The ending was once again very quick. That seems to be the way the series is going to go. Very long buildup, very quick ending.
November 23, 2017
This review is courtesy of BTH Reviews
A long time ago, I read the first book in this series Deadtown. I absolutely loved it, even read it more than once, but I never got back around to continuing the series. When I received an ARC of Firestorm via Netgalley, I decided to get off my booty and work my way through the Deadtown series. So I checked out Hellforged, Bloodstone, and Darklands from the local library.
Unfortunately, I couldn't read Hellhound because I haven't found that one yet, and until I do I can't read Firestorm. But reviews of the other books I read will be coming soon. I really enjoyed them, and I strongly suggest this series to anyone who hasn't read it yet.
The book begins with Vicky working another case as a demon exterminator. It starts out like a Scooby Doo movie I saw once. At first, I wasn't sure where Holzner was going with it, but it all made sense later. From there, Vicky has a ton of stuff to deal with in a short period. Her nemesis, The Destroyer, is back, zombies are being killed, her so-called cousin wants to become king of the demons, and her vampire roommate is acting very strange. Meanwhile, she has to figure out how she feels about Kane and Daniel, deal with her ex-apprentice Tina (who wants to be a rock star), figure out a prophecy, and work on her demon-fighting skills with the assistance of her aunt Mab in Wales.
The setting descriptions and world-building are excellent. Holzner further develops the history of Vicky's ancestry, along with the Welsh mythology. Although some reviewers didn't like that the book didn't have Vicky in Boston for much of the story, I enjoyed the change of scenery. By having Vicky travel to Wales, it helped develop Vicky's back story and moved some aspects of the plot along.
All of the characters in the story are interesting. Vicky, Kane, Daniel, Tina, Juliet, and Mab all contribute to the story. They also have distinct personalities. Even Vicky's doorman and favorite bartender are well-developed in this series. If I had to complain about anything, I'd say that the villain, Pryce, needed more motivation to act the way he did. Otherwise, I enjoyed all the characters immensely.
Another aspect of Hellforged that I loved is how Holzner continued to show the social injustices of Deadtown. The struggle for equal rights continues in this book, with Kane (a werewolf lawyer) still working to get people to treat supernaturals fairly. Vicky witnesses segregation, profiling, and ignorance. We get to see this when the zombies are killed, Vicky's interactions with the police, and in Vicky's dealings with her sister.
Recommend?
As I said at the beginning, I strongly recommend the Deadtown series. If you like books about shapeshifters, zombies, vampires, and other creatures, you should read this. Holzner is an excellent writer who created a complete world for Vicky. No aspect has been ignored. There's culture, family issues, politics, mythology, romance, and more. Hellforged does slow down a little in the middle. However, I kept turning pages because there was so much going on that I wanted to see what would happen. And there's plenty of action throughout the story, especially at the end. Also, the author adds some humor in at times to keep it from getting too dark. I really enjoyed reading this book, along with the other ones I have read in the series.
5 out of 5 stars (A)
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