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Jesse James Dawson #2
A Shot in the Dark
Jesse James Dawson is a Champion, putting his life on the line for those foolish enough to bargain with demons and fighting to save their souls. But even a Champion needs some downtime, so Jesse takes his annual camping trip to Colorado for some male bonding over friendly games of paintball.
Unfortunately, the fun and war games are interrupted by a pack of creatures summoned up from the very depths of hell by an entity Jesse prayed he'd never see again. With the lives of his friends and a teenager's soul on the line, Jesse's only hope may lie with an even more dangerous enemy--his personal demon, Axel..
Unfortunately, the fun and war games are interrupted by a pack of creatures summoned up from the very depths of hell by an entity Jesse prayed he'd never see again. With the lives of his friends and a teenager's soul on the line, Jesse's only hope may lie with an even more dangerous enemy--his personal demon, Axel..
306 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 5, 2011
11 people are currently reading
304 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
September 22, 2015
I, like a lot of other people found Urban Fantasy some years ago. Also like many other people I was introed to UF through Harry Dresden. Interestingly enough I find that many of us who like Harry Dresden and like Urban Fantasy disagree on other UF series. I stumbled on these a while back when I read the first paper back A Devil in the Details.
What do you know. I like these. I'm planning to order the next.
So, who is Jesse James Dawson? As I explained to our senior pastor when I arrived early at our small group meeting at Panera and she sat down next to as I was reading this book...It's about a Katana wielding warrior who tries to live by the Samurai or Bushido code. He is contacted by or finds people who have traded away their soul to a demon and then puts his own soul on the line to save them. He fights the demons with his sword and as he does damage to the demon "leaks" black "stuff" that then forms a sort of gate which sucks the demon back to hell.
The senior pastor said she missed that in seminary. I told her it was a minor.
Here you will probably role your eyes a bit at some of what Jesse does as I think he's heading down a road he ought to see as doom laden.
I can recommend these. Good reads, a snarky hero and lots of action.
Recommended. Enjoy.
What do you know. I like these. I'm planning to order the next.
So, who is Jesse James Dawson? As I explained to our senior pastor when I arrived early at our small group meeting at Panera and she sat down next to as I was reading this book...It's about a Katana wielding warrior who tries to live by the Samurai or Bushido code. He is contacted by or finds people who have traded away their soul to a demon and then puts his own soul on the line to save them. He fights the demons with his sword and as he does damage to the demon "leaks" black "stuff" that then forms a sort of gate which sucks the demon back to hell.
The senior pastor said she missed that in seminary. I told her it was a minor.
Here you will probably role your eyes a bit at some of what Jesse does as I think he's heading down a road he ought to see as doom laden.
I can recommend these. Good reads, a snarky hero and lots of action.
Recommended. Enjoy.
July 4, 2011
3.5 stars
A Shot in the Dark continues a few months after A Devil in the Details, with Jesse James Dawson mostly recovered from his last demon death-dance and tornado tango, but still suffering from nightmares of an earlier near-fatal demon fight. His annual Colorado camping trip with his buddies should provide ample opportunity for rejuvenation and recreation… What should have been a relaxing retreat quickly turns into a siege reminiscent of the Alamo . . .
A Shot in the Dark provides a good mystery, a few thrills, a new take on zombies, MacGyver-esque innovations in demon fighting and a peek into the true identity of Jesse’s favorite demon sidekick, Axel (hint: read To Reign in Hell by Steven Brust or Milton’s Paradise Lost). This is a strong sequel to last year’s A Devil in the Details and a great summer vacation read. Just don’t forget the holy water, mirrors and swords.
Read more at FantasyLiterature.com
A Shot in the Dark continues a few months after A Devil in the Details, with Jesse James Dawson mostly recovered from his last demon death-dance and tornado tango, but still suffering from nightmares of an earlier near-fatal demon fight. His annual Colorado camping trip with his buddies should provide ample opportunity for rejuvenation and recreation… What should have been a relaxing retreat quickly turns into a siege reminiscent of the Alamo . . .
A Shot in the Dark provides a good mystery, a few thrills, a new take on zombies, MacGyver-esque innovations in demon fighting and a peek into the true identity of Jesse’s favorite demon sidekick, Axel (hint: read To Reign in Hell by Steven Brust or Milton’s Paradise Lost). This is a strong sequel to last year’s A Devil in the Details and a great summer vacation read. Just don’t forget the holy water, mirrors and swords.
Read more at FantasyLiterature.com
December 5, 2019
4.5 Stars
Even better than the first one. Everything that made the first book good is back except this time the author picks up the pace a little bit and throws in a lot more action. Jesse and the guys go on an annual paintball trip that very quickly turns into a nightmare. An old enemy returns to haunt Jesse, threatening him and all his friends.
This was a lot of fun. A bit darker than the first one, but still great entertainment. Everything is just a bit better here than in the first book. More and better action. More characters, and more depth given to a few introduced in the first book. An expansion of the world, showing a glimpse of different players on both the side of the good guys and the bad guys.
My only real complaint is that the ending seemed a bit quick. Maybe I was just sad that it ended. So far this is looking to be one of the most fun urban fantasy series I’ve read.
Even better than the first one. Everything that made the first book good is back except this time the author picks up the pace a little bit and throws in a lot more action. Jesse and the guys go on an annual paintball trip that very quickly turns into a nightmare. An old enemy returns to haunt Jesse, threatening him and all his friends.
This was a lot of fun. A bit darker than the first one, but still great entertainment. Everything is just a bit better here than in the first book. More and better action. More characters, and more depth given to a few introduced in the first book. An expansion of the world, showing a glimpse of different players on both the side of the good guys and the bad guys.
My only real complaint is that the ending seemed a bit quick. Maybe I was just sad that it ended. So far this is looking to be one of the most fun urban fantasy series I’ve read.
August 15, 2011
A Devil in the Details was K.A. Stewart's debut novel last year in 2010, first in the Jesse James Dawson series; a very promising start to her career. I was a bit skeptical when I decided to read the book as the blurb and description didn't sound too appealing, but after a couple of chapters I could tell that this series would quickly become one of my favorites in the genre.
Let's forget plot for the time being, that can be hit or miss. The current main draw to the series is the compelling first person narrating voice Stewart has created, in many regards similar to that of Harry Dresden. And how many times haven't we stumbled upon people looking for something similar to Dresden? Well I finally found a series that I could endorse for fans of Dresden, particularly to those that enjoy that narrating voice. Keep in mind that I'm strictly recommending this on the merits of that aspect, nothing to do with plot, characters, setting, magic, etc. In Jesse James Dawson you'll find a honorable character, full of wisecracks and humor remarks, and also a flawed character which in many ways Dresden also is. And yes, he gets beat up quite badly on his way to kick just a little bit of ass.
In all, Stewart has created one of the best male first person narrators in the Urban Fantasy scene in my opinion, to the point that I thought the book was written by a man. Not because men are better writers than women, but because of how easy it felt to identify with the character me having two balls and a stick. It was a testament to how well the author wrote a character of the opposite sex, which is not an easy task.
Plenty of action, plenty of humor, a stable loving family, and a good mystery with its twists was a recipe for a successful novel.
A Shot in the Dark was released earlier this summer, and sequel to A Devil in the Details. Let me get this out of the way, did not enjoy it as much as the first one, but still very much enjoyed. It has more to do with my tastes more than anything. The second books was a bit more of a horror book in a secluded cabin scenario, which in all I'm not a fan of those. But that aside, everything that I enjoyed in the first one, was present in this one. The world keeps expanding and more dimensions get revealed.
With that said, the author needs to be commended for shaking things up and writing something slightly different from the first, keeping the world fresh and exciting. A bit slow in the beginning but once the action starts in this one it doesn't stop until the very last page. So in all, I really can't complain much about the secluded cabin scenario because it delivered many cool action scenes and those are most welcomed.
K.A. Stewart is an author to watch out for and very much looking forward to the next Jesse James Dawson installment.
http://bastardbooks.blogspot.com/2011...
Let's forget plot for the time being, that can be hit or miss. The current main draw to the series is the compelling first person narrating voice Stewart has created, in many regards similar to that of Harry Dresden. And how many times haven't we stumbled upon people looking for something similar to Dresden? Well I finally found a series that I could endorse for fans of Dresden, particularly to those that enjoy that narrating voice. Keep in mind that I'm strictly recommending this on the merits of that aspect, nothing to do with plot, characters, setting, magic, etc. In Jesse James Dawson you'll find a honorable character, full of wisecracks and humor remarks, and also a flawed character which in many ways Dresden also is. And yes, he gets beat up quite badly on his way to kick just a little bit of ass.
In all, Stewart has created one of the best male first person narrators in the Urban Fantasy scene in my opinion, to the point that I thought the book was written by a man. Not because men are better writers than women, but because of how easy it felt to identify with the character me having two balls and a stick. It was a testament to how well the author wrote a character of the opposite sex, which is not an easy task.
Plenty of action, plenty of humor, a stable loving family, and a good mystery with its twists was a recipe for a successful novel.
A Shot in the Dark was released earlier this summer, and sequel to A Devil in the Details. Let me get this out of the way, did not enjoy it as much as the first one, but still very much enjoyed. It has more to do with my tastes more than anything. The second books was a bit more of a horror book in a secluded cabin scenario, which in all I'm not a fan of those. But that aside, everything that I enjoyed in the first one, was present in this one. The world keeps expanding and more dimensions get revealed.
With that said, the author needs to be commended for shaking things up and writing something slightly different from the first, keeping the world fresh and exciting. A bit slow in the beginning but once the action starts in this one it doesn't stop until the very last page. So in all, I really can't complain much about the secluded cabin scenario because it delivered many cool action scenes and those are most welcomed.
K.A. Stewart is an author to watch out for and very much looking forward to the next Jesse James Dawson installment.
http://bastardbooks.blogspot.com/2011...
March 6, 2014
Another fun "romp" with Jesse James Dawson, demon slayer.
Jesse and his buddies head up to mountains of Colorado for a long weekend of paint ball and male bonding. Unfortunately, Jesse's arch nemesis, a demon also known as "The Yeti", is planning an ambush attack on Jesse and his crew. It's up to Jesse to find a way to stop the demon and get everyone safely off the mountain.
This is a fun read for anyone that enjoys a snarky, kick-ass demon hunter. It's the second in the series but if you're not too rigid about reading series in order (like me) you could probably read it as a standalone and still get most of the story.
Jesse and his buddies head up to mountains of Colorado for a long weekend of paint ball and male bonding. Unfortunately, Jesse's arch nemesis, a demon also known as "The Yeti", is planning an ambush attack on Jesse and his crew. It's up to Jesse to find a way to stop the demon and get everyone safely off the mountain.
This is a fun read for anyone that enjoys a snarky, kick-ass demon hunter. It's the second in the series but if you're not too rigid about reading series in order (like me) you could probably read it as a standalone and still get most of the story.
July 9, 2011
Three stars is a gift. Despite excellent storytelling and good, if simplistic character builing, A Shot in the Dark is so silly it's funny. (Confession: C. S. Lewis in On Stories: And Other Essays on Literature warns us not to review books of a genre we don't like. I don't like urban fantasy. This book confirms that opinion.) Zombies surrounding an isolated cabin in the night? Been done . . . about a million times. And who goes into the Colorado Rockies unprepared for the lions and bears who really are there?
Stewart is better than this. She's good--really good. I hope she employs her obvious talent elsewhere.
Stewart is better than this. She's good--really good. I hope she employs her obvious talent elsewhere.
September 27, 2011
*Rating* B-
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Review*
A Shot in the Dark, by K.A. Stewart, is the second release in the Jesse James Dawson series. Jesse is a champion by trade. He fights for those who are too stupid to realize that selling your soul to a demon for 15 minutes of fame and fortune is a very bad idea. He has already had a dozen such challenges in the 5 years since he became a champion including saving his own brother Cole.
This time around, Jesse, Cole, and best friends Marty and Will will travel to the Colorado Rockies for their annual paint ball getaway. It is supposed to be a time for fun and adventure after Jesse and his student Esteban were lucky enough to walk away from their previous misadventures. But, it turns into a fight for their very survival when wild creatures attack them as they arrive at their destination.
For Jesse, he will once again come face to face with the one demon he has had continued nightmares about for the past 4 years. A nightmare about a demon named the Yeti who he barely survived fighting against. Jesse will have to figure out a way to save his brother and friends from zombie like creatures who were once human but now answer the call of the Yeti.
Jesse is part of a group of Champions that was put together by Ivan Zelenko. Jesse doesn’t know the true number of existing champions because Ivan keeps things close without revealing too much about his network. He knows that two such champions were killed before he could fight the demon responsible.
*Note* I would love to see Stewart put Jesse with a few other champions like the Russian Svetlana who is the only female champion in existence against the demon hoards. Maybe later in the series?
But, Ivan’s group isn’t the only ones out slaying demons. Jesse meets Cameron a priest who works for the Order of St. Silvus. They are Holy Knights that are under the auspices of the Catholic Church. They seem to trying to discourage the champions from challenging demons while a war is brewing downtown. A war that could end human existence as we know it.
K.A. Stewart is a female writer who seems to understand the man’s point of view which is refreshing. Her character Jesse, while being snarky and hard core, believes in the code of the bushido and is a trained samurai warrior. He is married to Mira who is a powerful witch, and has a daughter named Annabelle.
It’s a nice change of pace reading about a male protagonist in the female dominated Urban Fantasy genre. Since I haven’t read any of the Harry Dresden series novels to this point, I can’t honestly compare the two characters point by point.
One of the more interesting characters of the series thus far has been Axel a demon who has a claim against Jesse’s soul. Axel makes appearances throughout the story including the ending that leaves the reader with several different questions. Hopefully, Stewart will answer them when the next book comes out.
K.A. Stewart
Jesse James Dawson
1. A Devil in the Details (July 2010)
2. A Shot In The Dark (07/05/2011)
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Review*
A Shot in the Dark, by K.A. Stewart, is the second release in the Jesse James Dawson series. Jesse is a champion by trade. He fights for those who are too stupid to realize that selling your soul to a demon for 15 minutes of fame and fortune is a very bad idea. He has already had a dozen such challenges in the 5 years since he became a champion including saving his own brother Cole.
This time around, Jesse, Cole, and best friends Marty and Will will travel to the Colorado Rockies for their annual paint ball getaway. It is supposed to be a time for fun and adventure after Jesse and his student Esteban were lucky enough to walk away from their previous misadventures. But, it turns into a fight for their very survival when wild creatures attack them as they arrive at their destination.
For Jesse, he will once again come face to face with the one demon he has had continued nightmares about for the past 4 years. A nightmare about a demon named the Yeti who he barely survived fighting against. Jesse will have to figure out a way to save his brother and friends from zombie like creatures who were once human but now answer the call of the Yeti.
Jesse is part of a group of Champions that was put together by Ivan Zelenko. Jesse doesn’t know the true number of existing champions because Ivan keeps things close without revealing too much about his network. He knows that two such champions were killed before he could fight the demon responsible.
*Note* I would love to see Stewart put Jesse with a few other champions like the Russian Svetlana who is the only female champion in existence against the demon hoards. Maybe later in the series?
But, Ivan’s group isn’t the only ones out slaying demons. Jesse meets Cameron a priest who works for the Order of St. Silvus. They are Holy Knights that are under the auspices of the Catholic Church. They seem to trying to discourage the champions from challenging demons while a war is brewing downtown. A war that could end human existence as we know it.
K.A. Stewart is a female writer who seems to understand the man’s point of view which is refreshing. Her character Jesse, while being snarky and hard core, believes in the code of the bushido and is a trained samurai warrior. He is married to Mira who is a powerful witch, and has a daughter named Annabelle.
It’s a nice change of pace reading about a male protagonist in the female dominated Urban Fantasy genre. Since I haven’t read any of the Harry Dresden series novels to this point, I can’t honestly compare the two characters point by point.
One of the more interesting characters of the series thus far has been Axel a demon who has a claim against Jesse’s soul. Axel makes appearances throughout the story including the ending that leaves the reader with several different questions. Hopefully, Stewart will answer them when the next book comes out.
K.A. Stewart
Jesse James Dawson
1. A Devil in the Details (July 2010)
2. A Shot In The Dark (07/05/2011)
June 19, 2012
I really dug this book. It had me completely engrossed right away, right back in the world without any hesitation. Jesse's voice is so authentic, I never for a second doubted that this was a real guy and that these things were really happening, just like in the first book. Stewart has a real gift for making the things she's writing about seem completely real, whether it's something that is based in reality, like Jesse's home life or the Colorado woods, or something as terrifying as his nightmare come back to life to hunt him down again. I like the fact that when he gets hurt, he's hurt, he's no superhero. He has nightmares because of the terrifying things he's had to do and seen, but he still keeps trying to help people because he's one of the few people who's aware of the problem with demons and has the ability to do something about it and he thinks it's important work. He's a champion by choice, not by some magical calling or fate or destiny. He's human. It's also a terrific balance of banter. action and darkness, keeping things from getting too serious or too silly in any moment. And Axel is a great character, of course, seeing how that's unfolding and trying to figure out what's going on in the demon world is fascinating.
There is an inevitable comparison to Jim Butcher and Harry Dresden because Jesse is a guy and there a bantering, witty style. And if you like Harry then you may well enjoy this too, but it's not really the same thing. Sure, Jesse is tall and skinny and a bit awkward in some ways, and Harry does like to use a sword sometimes, but they're really totally different guys. Jesse is a modern samurai swordsman with tattoos, not a lick of magic, a happy marriage and a sweet five year-old daughter. Other than skinniness and a similarity in wit he really couldn't be any more different from Harry. There are tons of snarky urban fantasy heroines out there these days and plenty of room for all of them if they're well done. And there is definitely room for this samurai swordsman on my shelf as well, I'm a big fan and I can't wait for the next book to come out.
There is an inevitable comparison to Jim Butcher and Harry Dresden because Jesse is a guy and there a bantering, witty style. And if you like Harry then you may well enjoy this too, but it's not really the same thing. Sure, Jesse is tall and skinny and a bit awkward in some ways, and Harry does like to use a sword sometimes, but they're really totally different guys. Jesse is a modern samurai swordsman with tattoos, not a lick of magic, a happy marriage and a sweet five year-old daughter. Other than skinniness and a similarity in wit he really couldn't be any more different from Harry. There are tons of snarky urban fantasy heroines out there these days and plenty of room for all of them if they're well done. And there is definitely room for this samurai swordsman on my shelf as well, I'm a big fan and I can't wait for the next book to come out.
September 23, 2011
As with the first volume of this series, it's still refreshing to see a hero who isn't embarrassed about being a good guy. There's a good heart to these books.
A Shot in the Dark has more action than the first book, and perhaps more moral complexity as well. It, like the first book, is an entertaining read. I won't give away any spoilers, but it is good to see how Jesse deals with one of his own greatest fears from the past -- and to see how his relationships may be changing in future installments of the series.
A Shot in the Dark has more action than the first book, and perhaps more moral complexity as well. It, like the first book, is an entertaining read. I won't give away any spoilers, but it is good to see how Jesse deals with one of his own greatest fears from the past -- and to see how his relationships may be changing in future installments of the series.
September 1, 2011
A great second installment in Stewart's Jesse James Dawson series. I continued to really enjoy Jesse as a character, as well as his colorful friends and family. I'm especially intrigued with where the Axel storyline will go!
Love Stewart's tone in both these books. She brings a very different and fresh perspective to the genre. Definitely worth a read - I'm looking forward to the next book!
Love Stewart's tone in both these books. She brings a very different and fresh perspective to the genre. Definitely worth a read - I'm looking forward to the next book!
April 8, 2013
A five star review just doesn't express how much I enjoyed book #2 in this series. I wish I hadn't waited so long to dig into it. My reading range covers everything. I love a good series and a character you have to love. Jesse's sense of humor is priceless. Demon slayer? Why the heck not. Loved it - digging right into #3 & will start nagging for #4.
June 19, 2015
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">You will need to read the first book in this series, <span style="color: #00ff00;"><strong><a href="http://j9books.blogspot.ca/2011/07/k-... style="color: #00ff00;">A Devil in the Details</span></a></strong></span>, before this book as it explains what it means to be a Champion and the overall battling for other people's souls idea. Plus it was a great read so why not enjoy it.</span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">K. A. Stewart is back with Jesse James Dawson and this time it is a beast from his past that is after his soul:</span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Jesse James Dawson is just looking to get his life back to normal after his last demon fight, but things seem to be out of perspective, he just doesn't feel right. He is hoping that his annual guys trip will help put things back on track. He should have known things were going to go wrong when Axel all of a sudden shows up after being absent from his life for months, pretending to be hs friend and not a Demon that wants to claim his soul. Jesse just blows him off but he is now on edge about everything. Even the trees on the mountains cannot seem to calm him. Jesse's secret about what he does for a living on the side is about to be exposed to all is friends and a literally a demon from Jesse's past is out to get him and is skirting the demon rules to do it.<br /></span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span> <span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I should have not waited this long to continue on in this series. The only positive about this is that the third book was released in 2012 and it looks like the fourth book will be sometime this year so I am happy I do not have to wait to continue on in the series. Although Stewart's books (so far) have been on the shorter side of things between 2-3 hundred pages, she is still able to create a complex plot as well as interesting characters. The flow of her books are fast paced that you won't want to put it down and will be seeking the next book in the series he draws you farther into Jesse's world, family and life.</span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Jesse James Dawson is one of my favorite characters in all of the urban fantasy genre. I love his whit, humour, ever resilient nature and dedication to follow the teachings and rules of the samurai way. He is loyal to a fault and is more than willing to put his life on the line for others. I mean that is what it truly means to be a champion. The thing that also make Jesse unique is that he appears to be "only" Human. He does not have any magic to assist him when he fights off the demons for the souls that they possess and this makes him very unique in the guardian world.</span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I love that Stewart has brought not only a male lead to the urban fantasy genre but also a different idea and perspective of demons that really goes back to basic, promising your soul in exchange for something in this life. It is always interesting to see what the people that Jesse help have traded their soul for, sometimes it is to help other people, but in the case of some of the teenagers he helps they want a cool car. I really liked that we got to see more of Axel in this book, and got to find just a tidbit of where he ranks in the demon underworld and you have to wonder what Jesse is in for when Axel decides to go for his soul. I am also interested in the underworld and the hierarchy that is done below. I hope that Stewart is able to give us more information about it in her future books.<br /></span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">K. A. Stewart is not a well known Urban Fantasy author but I personally think this series is a must read for those who like this genre especially if you like a male lead in your books. Stewart know how to create an interesting plot and great character. I cannot wait to get my copy of A Wolf at the Door. You need to pick up this series.</span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Enjoy!!!!</span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong><span style="color: #990000;">If You Like This,</span></strong></span></span></p>
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<p class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://j9books.blogspot.ca/2010/11/ch... src="https://images-blogger-opensocial.goo...*" alt="http://j9books.blogspot.ca/2010/11/ch..." width="131" height="200" border="0" data-orig-src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qXZS6jjJYlk..." /></a> <a href="http://j9books.blogspot.ca/2010/11/m-... src="https://images-blogger-opensocial.goo...*" alt="http://j9books.blogspot.ca/2010/11/m-..." width="128" height="200" border="0" data-orig-src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a0Z4ux0ZArw..." /></a> <a href="http://j9books.blogspot.ca/2011/07/k-... src="https://images-blogger-opensocial.goo...*" alt="http://j9books.blogspot.ca/2011/07/k-..." width="125" height="200" border="0" data-orig-src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3WQME5lbE_k..." /></a></span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">K. A. Stewart is back with Jesse James Dawson and this time it is a beast from his past that is after his soul:</span></span></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Jesse James Dawson is just looking to get his life back to normal after his last demon fight, but things seem to be out of perspective, he just doesn't feel right. He is hoping that his annual guys trip will help put things back on track. He should have known things were going to go wrong when Axel all of a sudden shows up after being absent from his life for months, pretending to be hs friend and not a Demon that wants to claim his soul. Jesse just blows him off but he is now on edge about everything. Even the trees on the mountains cannot seem to calm him. Jesse's secret about what he does for a living on the side is about to be exposed to all is friends and a literally a demon from Jesse's past is out to get him and is skirting the demon rules to do it.<br /></span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span> <span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I should have not waited this long to continue on in this series. The only positive about this is that the third book was released in 2012 and it looks like the fourth book will be sometime this year so I am happy I do not have to wait to continue on in the series. Although Stewart's books (so far) have been on the shorter side of things between 2-3 hundred pages, she is still able to create a complex plot as well as interesting characters. The flow of her books are fast paced that you won't want to put it down and will be seeking the next book in the series he draws you farther into Jesse's world, family and life.</span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Jesse James Dawson is one of my favorite characters in all of the urban fantasy genre. I love his whit, humour, ever resilient nature and dedication to follow the teachings and rules of the samurai way. He is loyal to a fault and is more than willing to put his life on the line for others. I mean that is what it truly means to be a champion. The thing that also make Jesse unique is that he appears to be "only" Human. He does not have any magic to assist him when he fights off the demons for the souls that they possess and this makes him very unique in the guardian world.</span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I love that Stewart has brought not only a male lead to the urban fantasy genre but also a different idea and perspective of demons that really goes back to basic, promising your soul in exchange for something in this life. It is always interesting to see what the people that Jesse help have traded their soul for, sometimes it is to help other people, but in the case of some of the teenagers he helps they want a cool car. I really liked that we got to see more of Axel in this book, and got to find just a tidbit of where he ranks in the demon underworld and you have to wonder what Jesse is in for when Axel decides to go for his soul. I am also interested in the underworld and the hierarchy that is done below. I hope that Stewart is able to give us more information about it in her future books.<br /></span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">K. A. Stewart is not a well known Urban Fantasy author but I personally think this series is a must read for those who like this genre especially if you like a male lead in your books. Stewart know how to create an interesting plot and great character. I cannot wait to get my copy of A Wolf at the Door. You need to pick up this series.</span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Enjoy!!!!</span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong><span style="color: #990000;">If You Like This,</span></strong></span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong><span style="color: #990000;">Check These Out Too:</span></strong></span></span></p>
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<p class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://j9books.blogspot.ca/2010/11/ch... src="https://images-blogger-opensocial.goo...*" alt="http://j9books.blogspot.ca/2010/11/ch..." width="131" height="200" border="0" data-orig-src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qXZS6jjJYlk..." /></a> <a href="http://j9books.blogspot.ca/2010/11/m-... src="https://images-blogger-opensocial.goo...*" alt="http://j9books.blogspot.ca/2010/11/m-..." width="128" height="200" border="0" data-orig-src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a0Z4ux0ZArw..." /></a> <a href="http://j9books.blogspot.ca/2011/07/k-... src="https://images-blogger-opensocial.goo...*" alt="http://j9books.blogspot.ca/2011/07/k-..." width="125" height="200" border="0" data-orig-src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3WQME5lbE_k..." /></a></span></span></p>
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January 24, 2018
Six months after his latest challenge fought as a Champion, Jesse has recovered from his injuries and is heading out on his annual camping and paintball trip to Colorado with his brother and closest friends. Instead of fun times and male bonding, however, what awaits them is a pack of hellish creatures and the demon who controls them: The demon Jesse dubbed the Yeti when he fought him years ago and was almost killed in the process. Now the Yeti's back and Jesse must face his worst nightmares to send him back to Hell once more in order to save his friends and himself.
A fun, action-packed ride from start to finish. Axel is becoming a more and more intriguing character and things are moving in the background that I'm very much looking forward to seeing develop further.
A fun, action-packed ride from start to finish. Axel is becoming a more and more intriguing character and things are moving in the background that I'm very much looking forward to seeing develop further.
August 28, 2019
I actually dislike stories based on the Christian mythology: immortal souls, heaven and hell. I have to downgrade the book for that. I also just can't connect with the MC. Risking an eternity of torment to save some people who made really bad decisions? Yes, very altruistic, but to the point of insanity to me, so I can't connect.
September 14, 2018
Even better than tge first. I enjoyed this a great deal, it was action packed and did a good job of solidifying the cast.
September 24, 2018
Very enjoyable
July 29, 2013
Originally posted at Bibliophilia, Please.
Jesse James Dawson. Husband. Father. Badass. Champion. The one man you want in your corner if you happen to be stupid enough to sell your soul to a demon.
Demons are out there, even if you can’t see them. Ready to offer deals. To give you what you desire, for the measly price of... YOUR SOOOOOUL! And if you make the deal, you’re screwed. Literally, figuratively and any other kind of -ally you can think of. Go ahead and get a thesaurus; I’ll wait. *fools around on phone*
Ok. Appreciate how deep in it you are? Well, do not despair! Ok, do despair a little. But don’t lose all hope! Champions are here to save your sorry ass. A secret society of people devoted to help those desperate or stupid enough to sell their souls. Some sell their souls for cars, or money. Others do it to save sick sons or a dying mother. It doesn’t matter. If you sold your soul, the Champions will help you.
In comes Jesse. His story starts when his brother made a deal, and the only way Jesse can help him is to put his soul as collateral and fight the demon. If he wins, the demon loses claim on the soul. If he loses, both souls get taken and eternal damnation, hell, brimstone and torture.
You’ll love Jesse. I see him like the illegitimate son of Harry Dresden and Atticus O’Sullivan. I haven’t looked (and I won’t, damn it!) but I’m sure there’s some slash fiction out there for just such an encounter. I’m sorry I put that mental picture in your head... unless you like that sort of thing. In which case, you’re welcome.
The writing is great. Fast paced, funny, strong, emotional. The story and plot are what brings everything together. Demons are not behaving normally in this book, as if demon behavior is in any way normal, and it makes you wonder what’s going on. The author does a very good job of drawing it out, while giving you enough action and information both to make you care about the characters and to try and figure out what’s happening.
The cast of characters feels very real. They all play a part in helping you connect to the world, and to Jesse. Giving you glimpses into the life of the man, as well as the trials of the Champion. It’s also very interesting to see how his domestic life is affected by his responsibilities as Champion. Watching Jesse’s struggle to stay alive, solve the mysteries surrounding him and save the soul of someone who’s way over his head. It makes you wish you could jump in and help him, want to give him advice when you glimpse something and want to spare him some pain, or reach in and kill that stupid demon making his life hell.
Jesse’s wife is awesome and supportive (and a witch), and it was such a relief to know that I, as a reader, wouldn’t have to deal with family debacles and fights. Still, the worrying, the suffering, the fear of not knowing if Jesse’s coming back after a challenge is all very real. I care about all the characters (Even the demon Axel). That’s good writing right there.
Now that I’ve mentioned Axel, there’s no putting the demon back in the bottle. He’s a pretty cool character. Mysterious, powerful, creepy as hell (pun intended). He’s bound, for some reason, to take Jesse’s soul. He sometimes helps and sometimes hinders. He’s quite... well, quite weird. And in this second book, his creepy levels went up a few notches. I have some ideas of where that may be going, but I’m pretty sure it’s going to be totally different to what I’m expecting. But if I did guess right, I’m gonna be doing a little jig ‘case I love figuring this sort of thing out as much as I love being all flabbergasted and shocked. And this is a good series for it.
I really, really, really like these books. Can’t wait to jump back in with Jesse into book three, A Wolf at the Door, and find out what’s going on. The Demons seem to be going all ape-shit and ignoring the rules in this book, and it’s all about to burst in the Champions’ face. And you really don’t want gooey, demon blight running down your face. Ugh.
Jesse James Dawson. Husband. Father. Badass. Champion. The one man you want in your corner if you happen to be stupid enough to sell your soul to a demon.
Demons are out there, even if you can’t see them. Ready to offer deals. To give you what you desire, for the measly price of... YOUR SOOOOOUL! And if you make the deal, you’re screwed. Literally, figuratively and any other kind of -ally you can think of. Go ahead and get a thesaurus; I’ll wait. *fools around on phone*
Ok. Appreciate how deep in it you are? Well, do not despair! Ok, do despair a little. But don’t lose all hope! Champions are here to save your sorry ass. A secret society of people devoted to help those desperate or stupid enough to sell their souls. Some sell their souls for cars, or money. Others do it to save sick sons or a dying mother. It doesn’t matter. If you sold your soul, the Champions will help you.
In comes Jesse. His story starts when his brother made a deal, and the only way Jesse can help him is to put his soul as collateral and fight the demon. If he wins, the demon loses claim on the soul. If he loses, both souls get taken and eternal damnation, hell, brimstone and torture.
You’ll love Jesse. I see him like the illegitimate son of Harry Dresden and Atticus O’Sullivan. I haven’t looked (and I won’t, damn it!) but I’m sure there’s some slash fiction out there for just such an encounter. I’m sorry I put that mental picture in your head... unless you like that sort of thing. In which case, you’re welcome.
The writing is great. Fast paced, funny, strong, emotional. The story and plot are what brings everything together. Demons are not behaving normally in this book, as if demon behavior is in any way normal, and it makes you wonder what’s going on. The author does a very good job of drawing it out, while giving you enough action and information both to make you care about the characters and to try and figure out what’s happening.
The cast of characters feels very real. They all play a part in helping you connect to the world, and to Jesse. Giving you glimpses into the life of the man, as well as the trials of the Champion. It’s also very interesting to see how his domestic life is affected by his responsibilities as Champion. Watching Jesse’s struggle to stay alive, solve the mysteries surrounding him and save the soul of someone who’s way over his head. It makes you wish you could jump in and help him, want to give him advice when you glimpse something and want to spare him some pain, or reach in and kill that stupid demon making his life hell.
Jesse’s wife is awesome and supportive (and a witch), and it was such a relief to know that I, as a reader, wouldn’t have to deal with family debacles and fights. Still, the worrying, the suffering, the fear of not knowing if Jesse’s coming back after a challenge is all very real. I care about all the characters (Even the demon Axel). That’s good writing right there.
Now that I’ve mentioned Axel, there’s no putting the demon back in the bottle. He’s a pretty cool character. Mysterious, powerful, creepy as hell (pun intended). He’s bound, for some reason, to take Jesse’s soul. He sometimes helps and sometimes hinders. He’s quite... well, quite weird. And in this second book, his creepy levels went up a few notches. I have some ideas of where that may be going, but I’m pretty sure it’s going to be totally different to what I’m expecting. But if I did guess right, I’m gonna be doing a little jig ‘case I love figuring this sort of thing out as much as I love being all flabbergasted and shocked. And this is a good series for it.
I really, really, really like these books. Can’t wait to jump back in with Jesse into book three, A Wolf at the Door, and find out what’s going on. The Demons seem to be going all ape-shit and ignoring the rules in this book, and it’s all about to burst in the Champions’ face. And you really don’t want gooey, demon blight running down your face. Ugh.
February 24, 2013
Synopsis:
Jesse James Dawson's vacation is interrupted by a pack of hell-spawned creatures. To save friends, family and himself, Jesse will have to put his trust in his most dangerous enemy-his personal demon.
My Thoughts:
It seems that things having been going so well for Jesse since the last time we saw him. Things have been quiet on the contract front. Esteban is living with Jesse and his family now and being trained by Jesse, so things should be good, right? Not so. Jesse hasn't been in the best of moods for the last six months. He's been insanely grumpy and generally unfun to be around. So when Bridget (Mira's friend and his physical therapist) brings a guy she's been dating to a family/friend get together, Jesse immediately takes a disliking to him. This guy just seems suspicious to him. And as the story goes on, we find out that Jesse was right to be suspicious.
Jesse's been planning on taking a vacation with his friends and brother and the new guy Cam ends up going with him. Before he leaves, though, he gets a warning from Axel about how demons always come back. If that isn't dire enough, Jesse has been having nightmares about the demon from his second ever challenge that almost killed him. Needless to say, Jesse isn't so gungho about this trip anymore. And when they get there, he discovers he probably should have stayed home after all. Demons really do come back as Jesse discovers to his detriment.
What was supposed to be a vacation turns into terror-filled days and nights. And Jesse makes a discovery about Cameron that he was not prepared for. Especially when Cameron tells him why he's really there. Jesse's brother and friends turn out to be really handy in this situation. Not to mention Marty's dog Duke. I was entirely immersed in the story. I couldn't put it down and HAD to know how Jesse & co. would get out of this mess. Axel actually turns out to be helpful in his own way. We learn that he seems to be some kind of demon Big Shot. Like Jesse, though, we're not entirely sure just how big a Big Shot he is. From the info that the Yeti was revealing though it seems like Axel might just be hot shit. Though I'm not entirely sure if he's top dawg or not, I'm fairly sure Axel is a Big Deal Down There.
It seems there's some major happenings going on in Hell. Axel won't reveal it all, but Jesse has some idea of it based off of what Cameron tells him. I'm really wanting to see more developments on this front. So looking forward to reading book 3 when I can.
Jesse James Dawson's vacation is interrupted by a pack of hell-spawned creatures. To save friends, family and himself, Jesse will have to put his trust in his most dangerous enemy-his personal demon.
My Thoughts:
It seems that things having been going so well for Jesse since the last time we saw him. Things have been quiet on the contract front. Esteban is living with Jesse and his family now and being trained by Jesse, so things should be good, right? Not so. Jesse hasn't been in the best of moods for the last six months. He's been insanely grumpy and generally unfun to be around. So when Bridget (Mira's friend and his physical therapist) brings a guy she's been dating to a family/friend get together, Jesse immediately takes a disliking to him. This guy just seems suspicious to him. And as the story goes on, we find out that Jesse was right to be suspicious.
Jesse's been planning on taking a vacation with his friends and brother and the new guy Cam ends up going with him. Before he leaves, though, he gets a warning from Axel about how demons always come back. If that isn't dire enough, Jesse has been having nightmares about the demon from his second ever challenge that almost killed him. Needless to say, Jesse isn't so gungho about this trip anymore. And when they get there, he discovers he probably should have stayed home after all. Demons really do come back as Jesse discovers to his detriment.
What was supposed to be a vacation turns into terror-filled days and nights. And Jesse makes a discovery about Cameron that he was not prepared for. Especially when Cameron tells him why he's really there. Jesse's brother and friends turn out to be really handy in this situation. Not to mention Marty's dog Duke. I was entirely immersed in the story. I couldn't put it down and HAD to know how Jesse & co. would get out of this mess. Axel actually turns out to be helpful in his own way. We learn that he seems to be some kind of demon Big Shot. Like Jesse, though, we're not entirely sure just how big a Big Shot he is. From the info that the Yeti was revealing though it seems like Axel might just be hot shit. Though I'm not entirely sure if he's top dawg or not, I'm fairly sure Axel is a Big Deal Down There.
It seems there's some major happenings going on in Hell. Axel won't reveal it all, but Jesse has some idea of it based off of what Cameron tells him. I'm really wanting to see more developments on this front. So looking forward to reading book 3 when I can.
June 18, 2011
A Shot In The Dark is the second book in the Jesse James Dawson series by K.A. Stewart and a ROC Fantasy.
Book Blurb:
THE ENEMY OF HIS ENEMY
Jesse James Dawson is a Champion, putting his life on the line for those foolish enough to bargain with demons and fighting to save their souls. But even a Champion needs some downtime, so Jesse takes his annual camping trip to Colorado for some male bonding over friendly games of paintball.
Unfortunately, the fun and war games are interrupted by a pack of creatures summoned up from the very depths of hell by an entity Jesse prayed he'd never see again. With the lives of his friends and a teenager's soul on the line, Jesse's only hope may lie with an even more dangerous enemy--his personal demon, Axel...
My thoughts:
Jesse James Dawson is just your average guy - if average carries a sword, practices bushido, and fights demons for the souls so easily bargained away by their owners.
Jesse is just one of several Champions throughout the world who have the ability to go up against a demon. It is never easy, Jesse will bear the scars of battle for the rest of his life - but to walk away without trying is not something Jesse is capable of doing.
As well as the Champions, the Order is privy to this world of demons and the bargains they make with man. But the Order is not always willing to work alongside the Champions. As a matter of fact, the Order often hinders more than helps.
Jesse doesn’t know it, but one of the Order is along for his annual camping trip - and even though he is less than forthcoming - when push comes to shove, he’ll be an asset in the coming fight.
A Shot in the Dark is the first book I’ve read by K.A. Stewart, and though it is the second in the series, I had no trouble reading it as a stand alone. That being said, I am eager to read the first book - A Devil in the Details.
I give A Shot in the Dark 4 out of 5 stars and can’t wait for more in this series.
Product Details
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Roc; Original edition (7-5-11)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0451464109
ISBN-13: 978-0451464101
Book Blurb:
THE ENEMY OF HIS ENEMY
Jesse James Dawson is a Champion, putting his life on the line for those foolish enough to bargain with demons and fighting to save their souls. But even a Champion needs some downtime, so Jesse takes his annual camping trip to Colorado for some male bonding over friendly games of paintball.
Unfortunately, the fun and war games are interrupted by a pack of creatures summoned up from the very depths of hell by an entity Jesse prayed he'd never see again. With the lives of his friends and a teenager's soul on the line, Jesse's only hope may lie with an even more dangerous enemy--his personal demon, Axel...
My thoughts:
Jesse James Dawson is just your average guy - if average carries a sword, practices bushido, and fights demons for the souls so easily bargained away by their owners.
Jesse is just one of several Champions throughout the world who have the ability to go up against a demon. It is never easy, Jesse will bear the scars of battle for the rest of his life - but to walk away without trying is not something Jesse is capable of doing.
As well as the Champions, the Order is privy to this world of demons and the bargains they make with man. But the Order is not always willing to work alongside the Champions. As a matter of fact, the Order often hinders more than helps.
Jesse doesn’t know it, but one of the Order is along for his annual camping trip - and even though he is less than forthcoming - when push comes to shove, he’ll be an asset in the coming fight.
A Shot in the Dark is the first book I’ve read by K.A. Stewart, and though it is the second in the series, I had no trouble reading it as a stand alone. That being said, I am eager to read the first book - A Devil in the Details.
I give A Shot in the Dark 4 out of 5 stars and can’t wait for more in this series.
Product Details
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Roc; Original edition (7-5-11)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0451464109
ISBN-13: 978-0451464101
April 2, 2016
Jesse James Dawson has mostly recovered from the events of A Devil in the Details, although the stress has taken a toll on his friendships. What better way to patch things up than at the annual lads-only paintballing trip?
Well, you pretty much know that things aren't going to go according to plan. Events go south pretty much as soon as everyone arrives at the cabin, with the arrival of the Yeti (the demon that nearly killed Jesse four years previously) who now has an army of zombie helpers. And the Yeti, it seems, has been planning this particular confrontation for a while.
We also get to see more of Axel, the demon who seems to take a particular interest in Jesse (excellent, because Axel is, I think, my favourite character), and we learn more about him. Although Stewart has kindly given us information which doesn't actually translate into knowledge... very tantalising. About the only thing we can deduce is that Axel is undoubtedly going to be very important to future events. (Good.)
Again, there isn't much in the way of plot complexity, but this book has more action in it than the previous one. One of Stewart's strengths, however, is the way she writes the interactions between Jesse and his friends. She's got the 'bunch of mates' dynamic down to a T, and also what happens to that dynamic when one of the group (i.e. Jesse) is doing something that's way beyond the comfort zone of the others.
This is a solid four stars, and after I'd finished it, I went straight on to read the next one in the series. These books are a very good addition to the urban fantasy genre, and I hope Stewart carries on with them.
Well, you pretty much know that things aren't going to go according to plan. Events go south pretty much as soon as everyone arrives at the cabin, with the arrival of the Yeti (the demon that nearly killed Jesse four years previously) who now has an army of zombie helpers. And the Yeti, it seems, has been planning this particular confrontation for a while.
We also get to see more of Axel, the demon who seems to take a particular interest in Jesse (excellent, because Axel is, I think, my favourite character), and we learn more about him. Although Stewart has kindly given us information which doesn't actually translate into knowledge... very tantalising. About the only thing we can deduce is that Axel is undoubtedly going to be very important to future events. (Good.)
Again, there isn't much in the way of plot complexity, but this book has more action in it than the previous one. One of Stewart's strengths, however, is the way she writes the interactions between Jesse and his friends. She's got the 'bunch of mates' dynamic down to a T, and also what happens to that dynamic when one of the group (i.e. Jesse) is doing something that's way beyond the comfort zone of the others.
This is a solid four stars, and after I'd finished it, I went straight on to read the next one in the series. These books are a very good addition to the urban fantasy genre, and I hope Stewart carries on with them.
February 18, 2015
I am really enjoying this series! I rate it 4.75 (see reason below)
Stewart continues the story of Jesse James Dawson in this second installment. This time, Dawson and his friends are off on a camping trip. What should be a men's paintball party at a mountain cabin, turns into Jesse's nightmare come to life. And worse, what is supposed to be a champion's contract-free weekend, suddenly becomes Jesse's obligation and a contract to champion with his greatest fear.
That's all I can tell you without spoiling it.
Now, what I can tell you is that Stewart is impressive when it comes to story. The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is that I felt the tale bogged down a little with repetition as we started to build toward the climax. It was almost as if something was "needed" in the middle and I felt as though it wasn't quite as needed (re: skuttles). Though diverting, I didn't see where having them made that big of an impact. Personal preference.
Stewart's Dawson is a flawed and engaging champion who follows the way of a samurai, which is cool given that he's neither Asian nor a ninja. And his family, though important, plays a much more muted role that is also important. To be secondary and critical is a talent.
I'm hooked on this series. I am headed now to the third installment. If you like Jim Butcher, you'll gravitate to Jesse James Dawson and his brother and friends. Trust me.
Stewart continues the story of Jesse James Dawson in this second installment. This time, Dawson and his friends are off on a camping trip. What should be a men's paintball party at a mountain cabin, turns into Jesse's nightmare come to life. And worse, what is supposed to be a champion's contract-free weekend, suddenly becomes Jesse's obligation and a contract to champion with his greatest fear.
That's all I can tell you without spoiling it.
Now, what I can tell you is that Stewart is impressive when it comes to story. The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is that I felt the tale bogged down a little with repetition as we started to build toward the climax. It was almost as if something was "needed" in the middle and I felt as though it wasn't quite as needed (re: skuttles). Though diverting, I didn't see where having them made that big of an impact. Personal preference.
Stewart's Dawson is a flawed and engaging champion who follows the way of a samurai, which is cool given that he's neither Asian nor a ninja. And his family, though important, plays a much more muted role that is also important. To be secondary and critical is a talent.
I'm hooked on this series. I am headed now to the third installment. If you like Jim Butcher, you'll gravitate to Jesse James Dawson and his brother and friends. Trust me.
August 20, 2014
Overall - 4.5*
This book turned out to be surprisingly better than A Devil in the Details which was more of a light-hearted action packed quick read. It had been some time since I had read the previous book and I decided to scan through it once more before delving into this one.
The overall story arc matures much more in this book considering that the author did not have the challenge of introducing the reader to a completely new world. The story does take a bit of time to get into but the pacing is well maintained throughout most parts of the book.
The blurb in my honest opinion does not do justice to the author or this book. There is a good element of horror (seclusion on a camping trip) mixed in the UF genre which I personally liked. While some other reviewers have pointed out similarities with Butcher's Harry Dresden series, I think this is more on the lighter side of things. The characters are quite interesting though with a life of their own.
I think that the biggest challenge facing the series and the author are "predictability". If the author is able to address this issue in the upcoming books, then this may well turn out to be one of my favorite UF series. Highly recommended series for UF readers.
This book turned out to be surprisingly better than A Devil in the Details which was more of a light-hearted action packed quick read. It had been some time since I had read the previous book and I decided to scan through it once more before delving into this one.
The overall story arc matures much more in this book considering that the author did not have the challenge of introducing the reader to a completely new world. The story does take a bit of time to get into but the pacing is well maintained throughout most parts of the book.
The blurb in my honest opinion does not do justice to the author or this book. There is a good element of horror (seclusion on a camping trip) mixed in the UF genre which I personally liked. While some other reviewers have pointed out similarities with Butcher's Harry Dresden series, I think this is more on the lighter side of things. The characters are quite interesting though with a life of their own.
I think that the biggest challenge facing the series and the author are "predictability". If the author is able to address this issue in the upcoming books, then this may well turn out to be one of my favorite UF series. Highly recommended series for UF readers.
August 3, 2011
This book is the poster book for a guys camping trip gone so very wrong. Jesse and the guys plan to go away for their yearly paintball trip when things take a turn for the worse when Axel, Jesse's demon nemesis, visits with a warning. While Jesse is contemplating the message the warning comes to live. The guys get an up close and personal with very bad things. For some of them they just are learning, some this is their first sighting, while others it is just another day.
Forced at the last minute to bring a new guy, Cam, along Jesse is surprised when things are going bad he seems to have knowledge about it. To say that Jesse is mad is to understate, but when things are bad a guy had to take help wherever it is given.
Cam and Jesse both end up learning new things that will help them in the future, if they live that long. Jesse once again finds himself championing, but there is more than a single soul at stake.
Once things are somewhat under control Jesse takes off to try to warn all the others in the champion network. During this trip Jesse learns more than he should and you can see a standoff coming between Jesse and Ivan.
With all the action going on with this one I can't wait for the next book!
Forced at the last minute to bring a new guy, Cam, along Jesse is surprised when things are going bad he seems to have knowledge about it. To say that Jesse is mad is to understate, but when things are bad a guy had to take help wherever it is given.
Cam and Jesse both end up learning new things that will help them in the future, if they live that long. Jesse once again finds himself championing, but there is more than a single soul at stake.
Once things are somewhat under control Jesse takes off to try to warn all the others in the champion network. During this trip Jesse learns more than he should and you can see a standoff coming between Jesse and Ivan.
With all the action going on with this one I can't wait for the next book!
August 25, 2012
A good quick read. Fast paced with more action than the first book.
There is a little more insight into Jesse's demon world and his personal demon, Axel. Axel is developing into an interesting character. There is more to this demon than facial piercings and squirrel possession. Jesse also learns more about his own secret champion world and the "snotty" Order. This kept the book fresh and interesting for me. The book ends with some interesting questions still unanswered but no cliffhanger, thank you. It left me wanting to pick up the next book right away.
Two minor complaints: I guessed right away about Cam and thought Jesse should have had his paranoid meter working overtime - especially since he was having such a hard time coping after the Tornado/Demon battle.
I also thought he dispatched the Yeti demon too easily. It was a good battle but he has been dreaming of this demon for years. I was hoping for a little more meat to it and a lot more terror on Jesse's part. I mean, this was his nightmare realized. How many people have that happen and how do they really react? Maybe because he had lived it so long as a nightmare it lost its fear factor? That is what I am guessing, but it was a little disappointing.
There is a little more insight into Jesse's demon world and his personal demon, Axel. Axel is developing into an interesting character. There is more to this demon than facial piercings and squirrel possession. Jesse also learns more about his own secret champion world and the "snotty" Order. This kept the book fresh and interesting for me. The book ends with some interesting questions still unanswered but no cliffhanger, thank you. It left me wanting to pick up the next book right away.
Two minor complaints: I guessed right away about Cam and thought Jesse should have had his paranoid meter working overtime - especially since he was having such a hard time coping after the Tornado/Demon battle.
I also thought he dispatched the Yeti demon too easily. It was a good battle but he has been dreaming of this demon for years. I was hoping for a little more meat to it and a lot more terror on Jesse's part. I mean, this was his nightmare realized. How many people have that happen and how do they really react? Maybe because he had lived it so long as a nightmare it lost its fear factor? That is what I am guessing, but it was a little disappointing.
December 8, 2014
I wanted to like this book. I never actually finished the first book, it just failed to hold my attention and I put it down and never picked it up again. But there the world and characters were interesting enough that I decided to give book two a shot and hope that it held my attention better.
Unfortunately, this book didn't fare any better than the first one did. I started it off a bit hesitantly, not sure if I was going to like it. The first quarter of the book moved really slowly, mostly happening in the main character's head - hashing out the past and his current issues. At a quarter in the book picked up and I started looking forward to picking it up and was enjoying reading it. But as I approach the last quarter of the book I just lost interest. I can't really put my finger on why - I think it might be because once again, we start getting caught in Jesse's head instead of being able to be caught up in the story.
Despite the interesting world and wanting to know what's up with Axel I'm going to walk away from this series now.
Unfortunately, this book didn't fare any better than the first one did. I started it off a bit hesitantly, not sure if I was going to like it. The first quarter of the book moved really slowly, mostly happening in the main character's head - hashing out the past and his current issues. At a quarter in the book picked up and I started looking forward to picking it up and was enjoying reading it. But as I approach the last quarter of the book I just lost interest. I can't really put my finger on why - I think it might be because once again, we start getting caught in Jesse's head instead of being able to be caught up in the story.
Despite the interesting world and wanting to know what's up with Axel I'm going to walk away from this series now.
August 30, 2016
"A Shot in the Dark" is an action filled story dealing in matters, not only of life and death, but of heaven and hell. In dealing with questions of good and evil, the answers aren’t always black and white, but often lie somewhere in the gray. Now the only question is, will Jesse’s friends still be his friends if they live through this supernatural wilderness adventure.
Stewart’s likable characters and unusual villains make settling in for this demon hunting tale quite enjoyable. Antagonist Jesse James Dawson and his friends pull out all the stops, combining traditional weaponry, magic and religion to battle the minions of the underworld, but can he bring all his friends home safely?
Read my full review of "A Shot in the Dark" on my blog, "Writing to be Read". https://kayelynnebooth.wordpress.com/...
Stewart’s likable characters and unusual villains make settling in for this demon hunting tale quite enjoyable. Antagonist Jesse James Dawson and his friends pull out all the stops, combining traditional weaponry, magic and religion to battle the minions of the underworld, but can he bring all his friends home safely?
Read my full review of "A Shot in the Dark" on my blog, "Writing to be Read". https://kayelynnebooth.wordpress.com/...
August 3, 2011
I enjoyed this, even in it's simplicity, but I'm a bit wary about the series. I know the urban fantasy genre isn't all that unique. You can read a dozen series and feel like you haven't read anything new. Seems like authors just aren't willing to take enough chances and keep doing what everyone else is doing. That's not my point though. My point is that there is a difference between following in everyone else's footsteps and taking details from other books and using them.
I can't with absolute certainty say that the later has happened in this series and I don't really want to say something so terrible about the author... but there were a few cases in this book where I felt things were a little too close to other novels. =\
I can't with absolute certainty say that the later has happened in this series and I don't really want to say something so terrible about the author... but there were a few cases in this book where I felt things were a little too close to other novels. =\
August 19, 2011
I devoured this second Jesse James Dawson book in 2 days. What a fun ride! Jesse's just the sort of guy I find easiest to sympathize with: good-hearted and honorable, but with just enough snark in his attitude to keep him from crossing into the boring end of the nice-guy pool. Truth be told, though, it's almost always the mischievous secondary characters that draw me back to a series -- and K.A. Stewart has a doozy here in Axel. He was amusing (in his own demonic, untrustworthy way) in the first book (A Devil in the Details) but we find out a bit more about him here, and we're left with more questions than answers. Looking forward to the next one already.
May 8, 2013
A great second chapter to the saga, and another two-day page burner for me - this picks up where the first book left off - no questions were really left needed to be answered from the first but we got a forgotten question answered - and that is good - and things are getting tied together nicely - looking forward to reading book three
I enjoy reading about a faithfully married and high morality holding modern day samurai champion Jesse James Dawson - say that three times really fast - great urban fiction at its best
I enjoy reading about a faithfully married and high morality holding modern day samurai champion Jesse James Dawson - say that three times really fast - great urban fiction at its best
May 28, 2011
The second JJD book is a strong one as well, perhaps not as light as the first one but nothing less charismatic. The scene is set few months after the events of the first book and Jesse is recalling a bit more about his previous fights and with Axel's previous warning. Things soon take a dire turn.
This time the action is much more furious, personal and with a lot more at stake as there's a huge event occurring which targets all champions... more to come in FBC review
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