Unraveled by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review & Giveaway

Posted on August 29, 2016 by Barb

Unraveled by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review & Giveaway

Unraveled
Elemental Assassin series – Book #15
by Jennifer Estep
Release Date: August 30, 2016

Unraveled Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description:
After the shocking revelations of the previous book, Bitter Bite, the world of Ashland’s become even more sinister, and Gin Blanco (aka Ashland’s most fearsome assassin, the Spider) no longer knows who—or what—she can count on. Only one thing is for certain: danger and new enemies await Gin in Unraveled, Book 15 in the New York Times bestselling Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series that RT Book Reviews calls “unbeatable entertainment!”

What could go wrong when you’re trying to unravel a decades-old conspiracy?

As the current queen of the Ashland underworld, you would think that I, Gin Blanco, would know all about some secret society controlling things from behind the scenes. I might be the Spider, the city’s most fearsome assassin, but all my Ice and Stone elemental magic hasn’t done me a lick of good in learning more about “the Circle”. Despite my continued investigations, the trail’s gone as cold as the coming winter.

So when Finnegan Lane, my foster brother, gets word of a surprising inheritance, we figure why not skip town for someplace less dangerous for a few days? That place: Bullet Pointe, a fancy hotel resort complex plus Old West theme park that Finn now owns lock, stock, and barrel. At first, all the struttin’ cowboys and sassy saloon girls are just hokey fun. But add in some shady coincidences and Circle assassins lurking all around, and vacationing becomes wilder—and deadlier—than any of us expected.

Good thing this assassin brought plenty of knives to the gunfight …

Barb’s Review:
Unraveled by Jennifer Estep is the 15^th book in her fantastic Elemental Assassin series. This series is one of my top favorites, as I always wait impatiently for the next book. Jennifer Estep, also one of my top favorites, continues to bring us wonderful exciting stories that flow very well, and one of the best kick-ass heroines in Gin Blanco (Spider). Unraveled continues this trend with another wonderful exciting action packed story.

Gin recently discovered that another powerful enemy has been secretly been running things for years in Ashland, and her mother may have been part of the Circle. Unraveled starts with Gin trying to find information that will tell her who and what is the Circle? Unable to find any information, a frustrated Gin decides to take a needed break and go with Fin to a wild west theme park, which he recently inherited from his deceased mother. When Gin, Fin, Bria and Owen arrive at the park, it doesn’t take long to see something is amiss, and perhaps they have walked into a trap. When she sees Tucker, the current villain and part of the Circle, Gin knows their lives are in danger.

What follows is an exciting adventure, where there are giants and sharpshooters that are part of the west theme park, and their enemies. In the middle of this is the mystery of the million dollar missing gems that Fin’s mother hid somewhere in the park. The villains are hoping to get Gin to find the gems, and then kill the four of them. Will Gin and the gang be able to escape the heavily guarded park? Will Gin find out who are the members of the Circle?

During her stay at the park, Gin does have flashbacks to when she was a child, and she remembers when she first saw Tucker and many of the evil villains that Gin has faced over the years. Gin learns more about her mother, and the Circle. Nice touch by Estep, giving us a look at the early years. I also enjoyed the part when they ate at the barbeque restaurant in the theme park, which paled in comparison to Gin’s Pork Pit. I would like to visit her place. 🙂

In true Gin Blanco fashion, never ever underestimate the Spider, as she faces insurmountable odds to save herself and her friends. As always, it is so awesome to watch the Spider in action. As we race to finish, the action is mind blowing, filled with action,danger , magic, and almost impossible feats. Once again, Fletcher leaves a clue that Gin finally figures out, that will give them more information on the Circle, which will continue into the next book..Snared.

Jennifer Estep once again gives us a wonderful exciting action filled story. If you have not started this series, you are missing out on a wonderful author and a fantastic heroine. I suggest you start Elemental Assassin now.

Sandy’s Review:

UNRAVELED is the fifteenth installment in Jennifer Estep’s adult, contemporary ELEMENTAL ASSASSIN paranormal, urban fantasy series focusing on Gin Blanco aka The Spider –the reigning Queen of the paranormal Underworld of Ashland. UNRAVELED picks up immediately after the events of Bitter Bite and Finn’s novella Unwanted.

NOTE: If you have NOT read BITTER BITE or UNWANTED there may be some spoilers in my review

Told from first person point of view (Gin Blanco) UNRAVELED follows Gin and her intrepid group of crime fighting family and friends –Gin’s significant other Owen Grayson; her sister Bria Coolidge; and Gin’s foster brother and Bria’s boyfriend Finnegan Lane- as they embark on a well deserved vacation that Gin suspects will be more dangerous than fun.

Upon the recent death of Deidre Shaw (Bitter Bite), Finnegan Lane learned he had inherited a ‘Western’ theme park and resort known as Bullet Pointe, and with it the potential for millions of dollar in missing gems. What ensues is the search for the ‘fabled’ diamonds, and the numerous attempts against our heroine’s life. Gin has been targeted by the secret society of assassins known as the Circle, and Bullet Pointe is the perfect location for the Circle to trap The Spider and her closest friends. As Finn and the others try to locate the missing gemstones, Gin finds herself on the run when the others are taken hostage and Gin is targeted for assassination.

Throughout the story, there are a number of dreams and flashbacks focusing on Gin’s mother Eira Snow. New details are emerging about Gin’s younger years, and her mother’s possible association with the Circle assassins. Fletcher Lane’s cryptic message left behind in the bank’s safety-deposit box has Finn and Gin scratching their heads hoping for some other type of clue.

There is a large ensemble cast of characters including Owen, Bria, and Finn, as well as Gin’s assistant Silvio Sanchez, ice elemental Lorelei Parker, and Owen’s best friend Phillip Kincaid. The requisite evil has many faces including vampire Hugh Tucker, and fire elemental Roxy Wyatt. Lawyer Jonah McAllister makes a cameo appearance as he prepares for his upcoming hearing, and he himself becomes the target of the infamous Circle.

UNRAVELED and Bitter Bite mark the beginning of a new story line arc in Estep’s Elemental Assassin series. Unlike a number of the other story lines in the series, the action is limited, and the violence is not as graphic or one-sided. The premise is entertaining, while the author focused on the past and the cycle of events that comes full circle to present day. The characters are colorful and eclectic although Finn, Bria and Owen’s roles are more subdued than in the past couple of stories. And as with most Urban Fantasy story lines and series, the romance is secondary to the main premise although we do get some limited Gin and Owen time allowing for a glimpse into their revitalized relationship. UNRAVELED is a delightful and imaginative read.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Giveaway-redandblack_zps8ff4dc4b

Jennifer is graciously offering FOUR giveaways to FOUR (4) lucky commenters at The Reading Cafe:

* A paper copy of UNRAVELED & the first 3 books of her Black Blade series to one lucky commenter.

* A paper copy of UNRAVELED to Three (3) lucky commenters.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

NOTE: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging into the site, please refresh the page at the top of your computer

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE and Follow Jennifer Estep on Facebook

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. FOLLOW us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Giveaway open to USA only.

8. Giveaway runs from August 29 – September 2, 2016

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Unwanted (Elemental Assassin 14.5) by Jennifer Estep-a dual review

Posted on July 18, 2016 by Sandy

UNWANTED (Elemental Assassin 14.5) by Jennifer Estep-a dual review

Unwanted

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / BAM /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 18, 2016

The New York Times bestselling Elemental Assassin series continues with a new e-novella–from the point of view of Finnegan Lane, the foster brother of Gin Blanco, and a fan favorite of readers of the series.

The fallout from his disastrous “family reunion” in Bitter Bite has left Finn feeling hurt, angry, and depressed. He can barely stand to look at himself in the mirror, much less eat any of the delicious barbecue from Gin’s famed Pork Pit restaurant.

But when the funeral for a slain security guard at his bank turns into a showdown with some nasty underworld giants, Finn knows that he must act in order to protect an innocent family.

Finnegan Lane might be the most unwanted man in Ashland these days, but he’s determined to try to make amends for his past mistakes…

••••••••••••

Sandy’s Review

NOTE: If you have not read BITTER BITE, there may be some spoilers in my review.

REVIEW: UNWANTED is a novella by Jennifer Estep that focuses on the aftermath and fallout from the events of BITTER BITE (Elemental Assassin #14) wherein Finnegan Lane’s past comes back from the dead seeking retribution, leaving a path of destruction and death in its wake.

Told from first person point of view (Finnegan Lane) UNWANTED follows Finnegan and his growing guilt in the days and weeks after several co-workers were murdered doing their job. Although not directly responsible for the massacre and ensuing death, Finn compounds his grief and guilt with each funeral having to face the employees and their family knowing most of them place the blame squarely on his shoulders. When a threat of a different nature touches upon one of the survivors, Finn makes it his responsibility to mete out justice, ending the threat-once and for all.

UNWANTED takes a quick look at the man we have grown to love. Although we still know very little about Finnegan’s life with Fletcher Lane, UNWANTED reveals some of the thought processes and his need to defend those who are unable to defend themselves. The premise helps to close up some lose ends in the aftermath of a dark and dangerous time; the characters are an eclectic mix of good and bad.

Barb’s Review

Unwanted by Jennifer Estep is 14.5 of her wonderful Elemental Assassin series. This novella is different, as it is told in Finn’s POV. Finn is Gin Blanco’s foster brother. Unwanted picks up right after Bitter Bite left off. Finn is depressed and feeling guilty about his behavior in not trusting Gin, when he allowed his mother to set a trap for him, thereby causing deaths and Bank issues that are still trying to be resolved. Those in the bank, where he works, do not talk to him, as they blame him for everything.

When he has to attend a funeral of one of the banks employees, he overhears a bookie threatening the family of the deceased. Though everyone does not want any help from him, Finn is determined to intervene and help. Finn will snap out of his self imposed lethargy, as he has to face 3 giants, who plan on hurting the wife and child of the deceased. Finn will not go to Gin, as he can feel his old self rising to the challenge. It was great to see Finn battle the villains, and I also enjoyed reading this in his pov. Finn’s boss also helped the way to get those blaming Finn straight by telling them he was tortured during the fiasco with his mother. This was a face paced short story, which is always difficult to write reviews. If you are a fan of this series, it is a fun read that you will enjoy. If you have not read this series, do not start with this book. Go back to beginning and learn all about Gin Blanco, one of the best kick-ass heroines.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

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Bitter Bite (Elemental Assassin #14) by Jennifer Estep -Dual review

Posted on February 23, 2016 by Sandy

BITTER BITE (Elemental Assassin #14) by Jennifer Estep-Dual Review

Bitter Bite

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 23, 2016

Which is stronger: blood ties or a battle-tested friendship?

It’s not easy being queen bee of an underworld abuzz with crooks and killers. Wielding my potent Ice and Stone elemental magic will only get me so far—my real secret is my tight-knit makeshift family, a motley crew of cops and criminals, dwarves and playboys. My foster brother Finnegan Lane is my right-hand man, but when his suddenly not-dead relative comes back into the picture, I’m the one on the outside looking in.

It’s funny how life works: one minute your best friend is rock-steady, and the next he’s doe-eyed and buying into this whole loving-relative routine to the point of ignoring you. I’d like to be happy for Finn, I really would. But all of my instincts are telling me that beneath the syrupy sweet demeanor and old-fashioned charm, this sudden interloper is planning something. The whole shtick leaves a bitter taste in my mouth. This person might have avoided the grave once, but I’ll put anyone who hurts Finn in the ground—for good.

•••••••••

Sandy’s Review

BITTER BITE is the fourteenth full length installment in Jennifer Estep’s ELEMENTAL ASSASSIN Urban Fantasy series focusing on the Underworld elemental assassin Gin Blanco-aka The Spider.

Told from first person point of view (Gin) BITTER BITE focuses on the return of Deirdre Shaw-Finnegan Lane’s ‘deceased’ mother, Fletcher’s ex-wife, and Gin’s next target as the underworld assassin. Deirdre is a powerful ‘Ice’ elemental but returns as a mother grieving the missed years of her son’s childhood, and his assent into Ashland’s elite bankers and grifters. What ensues is a rekindling of a relationship between Finn and Deirdre, and Gin’s not so subtle reminder to Finn and the others that Deirdre has returned at a very opportunistic time.

BITTER BITE follows Gin’s investigation into Deirdre’s return and Finn’s obvious reluctance to heed Gin’s warnings. When a botched bank robbery and jewel heist point all the fingers at Deirdre Shaw, Finn turns a blind eye to the mother he desperately wants in his life.

Jennifer Estep wraps our heroine in an icy blanket of violence, death, blood shed and mystery. Not as graphically violent as some of the earlier installments BITTER BITE once again finds ‘The Spider’ in one too many circumstances out of her control. Her constant need to do everything alone lands Gin on the precipice of life and death –yet again.

All of the series regulars including Gin’s boyfriend Owen, her sister and Finn’s girlfriend Bria play secondary and supporting roles; Jo Jo and Sophie (the magical dwarves) make cameo appearances; and Gin’s assistant Silvio’s role is broadening with every story line.

The world building traverses the past and the present, as the reader is pulled into Gin’s memories of Fletcher and Finn using letters, dreams and nightmares. Gin is the leader of the paranormal underworld of Ashland but she has very little control on the criminal element. Our heroine must constantly prove she is worthy of the title, and with each installment someone stronger begins to make life difficult for The Spider.

BITTER BITE is a revealing story line that focuses on family and betrayal; heartbreak and lies; secrets and letting go of the past-but the past doesn’t want to lie down and die. The new series arc is focusing on the past, and the reemergence of those long thought dead and gone. A fantastic series by an amazing author.

Barb’s Review:

Bitter Bite by Jennifer Estep is the 14^th book in her fantastic Elemental Assassin series. I’m sure you have heard me say this many times, but I love this series, I love Gin Blanco and I love everything Jennifer Estep writes. Just saying. 🙂

Bitter Bite is another wonderful story, which picks up immediately after the last book, with Gin investigating a hidden message warning left for her to find by the now deceased Fletcher. Before Gin can find out much more about Deidre Shaw, Finn’s long dead mother, who is now alive and a very powerful ice elemental; Finn will find out before she can tell him. To Finn’s shock, he finds out that the woman he has been dealing with for his bank, is his mother. Despite Gin’s warning, he falls totally into his mother’s charm and forgets about his family and friends.

As we have come to know and love Gin, we also know she will do all she can to protect Finn. Gin does not trust Deidre, and begins to have her investigated as well as spied upon. What Gin does discover is that Deidre has enormous powers, which she can feel, even when it is harnessed. Almost immediately, there is a robbery attempt, which rises Gin’s suspicions even more; but at every visit, Deidre is the doting mom and nothing appears to be wrong.

But again, Gin Blanco is not your average young lady; she is the Spider, who is used to living in a dangerous and violent world. Rather than reveal any spoilers, what follows is an action packed exciting adventure that will bring Gin, Bria, Owen, Finn and all their friends into danger that will put their lives at risk. Will Finn forgive Gin? Will they all survive?

It was a wild tense last 1/3 of the book, with new revelations that will shock Gin’s world even more. Jennifer Estep once again gives us another fabulous story that continues to change the game and add on more elements that will have Gin looking into her past to discover more about about her mother and the enemies both old and new.

As I said before, I love this series. Besides such a great heroine, we have a wonderful group of characters. I loved the further bonding of Gin and Bria, as well as Gin’s relationship with Owen. In each and every book, Jennifer Estep continues to wow us and keep us totally hooked into the life of Gin Blanco…the Spider. If you have not read this series, I suggest you start it now.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Spider’s Trap (Elemental Assassin #13) by Jennifer Estep-Dual Review and Giveaway

Posted on July 27, 2015 by Sandy

SPIDER’S TRAP (Elemental Assassin #13) by Jennifer Estep-Dual review and Giveaway

Spider’s Trap
Elemental Assassin #13
by Jennifer Estep
Genre: adult, urban fantasy
Release Date: July 28, 2015

Spider's Trap

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 28, 2015

Keep your friends close but your enemies within stabbing distance.

One important lesson I’ve learned in the assassination business is that to be the best you have to roll with the punches. Now that I’m queen of Ashland’s underworld—by default, not by choice—a lot more punches are being thrown my way. But I suppose that’s the price of victory for taking down some of the underworld’s top dogs. Good thing I have my Ice and Stone magic to help me survive my volatile new position. Just when I think things are finally settling down, someone tries to murder me during a hush-hush underworld meeting. But the real surprise is how strangely familiar my shadowy assailant seems to be.

My job is to maintain order among killers, crooks, and thieves, and soon I’m embroiled in a bloody game where the ability to keep secrets could be the greatest superpower of all. My enemies have all sharpened their knives and laid their traps, waiting for me to fall. But this Spider weaves her own webs of death

•••••••••

Sandy’s Review

SPIDER’S TRAP is the thirteenth full-length installment in Jennifer Estep’s adult, contemporary Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series focusing on elemental assassin Gin Blanco aka The Spider. With her dual elements of stone and ice, Gin is a one woman force of nature’s power.

Told from first person point of view (Gin Blanco) SPIDER’S TRAP finds Gin facing a new but familiar enemy, in the fictional town of Ashland, whose elemental strength may be more than Gin had anticipated. As the new head of Ashland’s underworld, Gin must mediate between rival kingpins and settle disputes, all the while trying to ward off the attacks against the people that she loves. When an enemy from the past resurfaces looking for revenge, Gin makes it her mission to stay one step ahead-but is Gin the target or is someone else?

SPIDER’S TRAP brings together all of Gin’s elemental friends, vampires, giants and dwarves. Owen returns as Gin’s love interest but the romance is always limited in UF storylines; Finn continues to make impressions on the ladies; and memories of Fletcher continue to direct Gin on her path of knowledge and understanding. Gin and Bria’s relationship is no longer combative and hasn’t been for several storylines; Jo Jo and Sophia continue to play their supporting roles as protector and healer.

Jennifer Estep infuses some of the backstory and history between Gin and the previous evil elementals who have threatened our heroine or wreaked havoc on her family and friends. There is a familiarity to the storyline as old stories are revisited and the past comes full circle; Fletcher’s letters, files and lessons are a major part of the storyline (and series) premise as Gin continues her mentor’s job.

SPIDER’S TRAP is an engaging and intriguing addition to Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series that blends magic with the elementals; the supernatural with reality. There is the usual mayhem, violence, blood shed and death, but Gin, more or less, comes out of this adventure unharmed-others may not be so lucky. Gin’s evolution throughout the series finds our heroine stopping to consider all outcomes before jumping head first into a battle she may not be ready to lose-Gin’s overconfidence is often her Achilles heal.

Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series and Gin Blanco are a ‘go to’ read every time.

____________

Barb’s Review

Spider’s Trap by Jennifer Estep is the 13^th book in her fantastic Elemental Assassin series. Gin Blanco is our heroine in this series, and she is one of the best kick-ass heroines I have read. Gin is an assassin with the name Spider, but in recent books, her identity which was hidden is now known. Gin is tough as they come, and throughout this series, she has killed many in self defense, killing evil beings, or to save those of her friends/family, whom she is loyal to. Gin thinks nothing of putting herself in continual danger, and in each story that Jennifer Estep so wonderfully creates, Gin faces off against the ultimate powerful nemesis and they just keep getting stronger and more powerful.

With the demise of Mab and Madeline Monroe in the last few books, Gin has been elevated to Queen of the Underworld, something she really doesn’t want, but having eliminated those in power, she inherits this title. The story begins with Gin overseeing a meeting of the Ashland underworld, and since she is bored, she begins to watch her surroundings and becomes suspicious of a waiter. Gin realizes there is a bomb and jumps to save everyone, and the mystery begins who is trying to kill who.

Gin will find herself against a powerful villain, as well as remembering a case from the past that comes back to haunt her and her competitor Lorelei Parker. What follows is an amazing adventure that puts Gin in many dangerous and death defying situations. What I loved the most is the team Gin has built over the years, consisting of friends and family that surround her. These are a wonderful group of secondary characters…Owen, Finn, Sophia, Jo Jo, Bria, Xavier, Silvio, just to name a few. As the danger escalates into an impossible situation, it will take enemies to join hands to fight against this master villain.

Jennifer Estep simply amazes me how she keeps giving us such fabulous thrilling stories, with such a fantastic heroine who always has us on the edge of our seat praying for her survival. The romance between Gin and Owen keeps growing, as does her second family. Each book in this series just keeps getting better and better. Please Jennifer, do not ever end this series. If you have not read Elemental Assassin series, what are you waiting for?

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

READING ORDER

0.5 Spider’s Bargain
1 Spider’s Bite
1.5 Web of Death
2 Web of Lies
2.5 Web of Deceit
2.6 Poison
2.7 Wasted
3 Venom
3.5 Tangled Dreams
3.7 Tangled Schemes
4 Tangled Threads
4.5 Spider’s Nemesis
5 Spider’s Revenge
5.5 Thread of Death
6 By A Thread
7 Widow’s Web
8 Deadly Sting
8.1 Parlor Tricks
8.5 Kiss of Venom
9 Heart of Venom
10. The Spider
11. Poison Promise
12. Black Widow
13. Spider’s Trap

giveaway

The Reading Cafe and Jennifer’s publisher are offering a paper copy of SPIDER’S TRAP to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE and Follow Jennifer Estep on Facebook

4. Please FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on TSU

5. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

6. FOLLOW us on Twitter for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

8. Giveaway open to USA only.

9. Giveaway runs from July 27- 31, 2015

Black Widow by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review & Giveaway

Posted on November 25, 2014 by Barb

Black Widow by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review & Giveaway

Black Widow
Elemental Assassin series – Book #12
by Jennifer Estep
Release Date: November 25, 2014

Black Widow Nov 14 Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository / BAM

Description:
With wicked Fire elemental Mab Monroe long gone, you’d think I could finally catch a break. But someone’s always trying to take me down, either as Gin Blanco or my assassin alter-ago. Now along comes the Spider’s new arch-nemesis, the mysteriously named M. M. Monroe, who is gleefully working overtime to trap me in a sticky web of deceit.

The thing is, I’m not the only target. I can see through the tangled threads enough to know that every bit of bad luck my friends have been having lately is no accident—and that each unfortunate “coincidence” is just one more arrow drawing ever closer to hitting the real bulls-eye. Though new to Ashland, this M. M. Monroe is no stranger to irony, trying to get me, an assassin, framed for murder. Yet, as my enemy’s master plan is slowly revealed, I have a sinking feeling that it will take more than my powerful Ice and Stone magic to stop my whole life from going up in flames

Barb’s Review:
Black Widow by Jennifer Estep is the 12^th book in her wonderful Elemental Assassin series. I have a few favorite kick-ass heroines, and Gin Blanco is one of them. In each book in this series, Jennifer Estep continues to awe us with a wonderful story, and another impossible situation for Gin to get out of.

The last book left off when we learned about Mab Monroe’s daughter, M.M. (Madeline), and a new villain was born. In Black Widow, Gin finds out quickly that she may have met her strongest adversary, as Madeline is an Acid Elemental and plans on taking over everything, including the underworld her mother controlled. Since Gin was not fully prepared for Madeline’s secret scheming, as she and her friends/family are besieged with all kinds of legal issues, causing their business, or personal issues to bring them down. Most of all, Gin is set up on a murder charge by a crooked cop, who Madeline controls.

What follows is an exciting non-stop action packed adventure, that seems mostly hopeless for our Gin. At every turn, she faces insurmountable odds, and torture, starting with her stay in jail, which is set up for a full scale attack on her that is designed to have her killed. Madeline is determined to kill Gin, and will stop at nothing to ensure that this is done.

There were so many life ending situations, filled with extreme danger that we cringed in despair for Gin. Through it all, we wondered if this was the end, because we could see no way for Gin to survive some of these attacks. But Gin Blanco is not your normal heroine, she is the Spider, who can be as cunning, murderous and powerful as the worst evil villain. In the most inescapable situations, she will find a way, even if she suffers badly and comes so close to death. Madeline proves to be her strongest enemy. Will Gin find a way to outsmart Madeline? Is she powerful enough to with stand a powerful acid elemental?

Jennifer Estep has given us a story that had us on the edge from beginning to end. I loved seeing all of Gin’s friends/family come together to support and try to help her….Finn, Owen, Bria, Sophia, Jo-Jo, just to name a few, and there are so many more. This was a classic battle against a terrible villain that had us holding our breath. A major twist ending leads the way for future changes. Black Widow was a wonderful edition to Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series. If you have not read this series, it is time for you to start reading.

Sandy’s Review:

BLACK WIDOW is the twelve full length storyline in Jennifer Estep’s contemporary, adult Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series focusing on the elemental assassin Gin Blanco aka The Spider. With her dual elements of stone and ice, Gin is a force unto herself but a new enemy with a familiar name and face has come back to Ashland seeking the ultimate revenge. Not only is Gin targeted for destruction, so too are everyone she knows and loves-and this time the Pork Pit is a target as well.

Told from first person point of view (Gin Blanco) BLACK WIDOW finds Gin and her extended family of vampires, dwarves and elementals facing a series of legal action brought about by local law enforcement. From law suits for fraud to health inspections that go terribly wrong, no one is protected when the people in control are no longer in control themselves. As if back from the grave, Mabs Monroe power reaches far and wide, and it comes with a more powerful and startling elemental.

We will reconnect with all of Gin’s family including her lover Owen whose need to protect Gin builds with every storyline. I hope to see something more from Owen and Gin in the future (perhaps I was the only one who caught a small hint). Gin’s foster brother Finn and sister Bria, as well as Jo Jo and Sophia continue to support and aid Gin in her endeavor to control the underground of Ashland but the powerful mob grows stronger with each new leader and elemental control. Gin’s new assistant Silvio is a definite asset when it comes to the inside workings of the law.

The world building continues as the giants, dwarves and other elementals focus their energy and revenge against the woman known as The Spider. Old enemies will resurface and take a stand against Gin all in the name of revenge. Law enforcement is once again on the take when the criminal element of Ashland is back in control. I will say that I worry when an author begins to recycle the bad guy phenomenon, although the recycling is more of a next generation of problems.

BLACK WIDOW has all the requisite mystery, suspense and action. The violence remains but has been curtailed such that the images are not as graphic as have been in the past. Jennifer Estep’s talent with the urban fantasy storyline is above and beyond. Great characters. Amazing author. Fantastic series.

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Black Widow Audible

Do you like to listen to audio books? click HERE for a sample of BLACK WIDOW by Jennifer Estep

There are 2 giveaways and 3 winners

-Jennifer is graciously offering a two book giveaway (Poison Promise & Black Widow) to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

-Jennifer’s publisher is also graciously offering a paper copy of BLACK WIDOW to TWO (2) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

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Poison Promise (Elemental Assassin #11) by Jennifer Estep-Review, Interview and Giveaway

Posted on July 22, 2014 by Sandy

Poison Promise (Elemental Assassin #11) by Jennifer Estep-Review, Interview and Giveaway

Poison Promise
Elemental Assassin #11
by Jennifer Estep
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, urban fantasy
Release Date: July 22, 2014

Poison Promise Aug 14

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 22, 2014

Gin Blanco is hard-nosed, sexy, and lethal. Nicknamed “The Spider,” she’s a stone elemental assassin who brings her unique mix of magic and tact to every assignment, no matter the target.

There’s a new drug on the streets of Ashland, and its name “Burn” sums up the potent effect it has on its users. When one of her restaurant employees is threatened by dealers of the drug, Gin steps in to set things straight…

••••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: POISON PROMISE is the eleventh instalment in Jennifer Estep’s paranormal/urban fantasy Elemental Assassin series focusing on assassin Gin Blanco-aka The Spider. Gin is tired of the numerous attempts on her life; the killings; and the threats against her friends and family-but a new drug dealer in town has set his sights on Gin’s sister Bria and Gin is in no mood to stand by and watch the fall out from a new designer drug taking down most of Ashland and Southtown’s addicts and users.

Told from first person POV (Gin) the premise follows Gin as she, once again, must step in and stop a menace that is known as Beauregard Benson-a vampire with a special ability that leaves his victims a shell of their former selves. As the latest drug king pin, Benson likes to make his presence known, and in this, most of the people (humans, vampires, giants, dwarves and elementals) keep their distance lest they too, become a casualty of Benson’s secret powers. As Gin focuses on taking Benson down, she will become a victim of Benson’s tyrannical need to control the town of Ashland.

The secondary characters include all of the people and supernaturals close to Gin –Owen (Gin’s lover); Finn (Gin’s adopted foster brother and BFF); Jo Jo and Sophia (Dwarves); Bria (Ashland cop and Gin’s irritating sister) as well as Phillip, Eva, Roslyn, Xavier and more. The reader will be introduced to a soon-to-be new member of Gin’s team-a vampire and former nemesis whose motives are questionable until the truth is revealed. Gin’s past will come back with a vengeance – a second generation of supernaturals hoping for a piece of The Spider-and in this the next storyline is about to unfold-Black Widow (Elemental Assassin #12).

Jennifer Estep continues to pull the reader into a graphically violent, addicting and detailed series about a reluctant and complicated female assassin who wants nothing more than to spend her days working at the Pork Pit and her nights in the arms of her lover. Jennifer keeps the reader engaged with flashbacks, memories and recounting of previous storyline scenarios that further draw the reader into a series where The Spider will always come out on top but getting there is dangerous and messy.

POISON PROMISE is the build up to, and introduces the next ARC in Jennifer Estep’s intense and compelling Elemental Assassin series. Gin may have thought that taking down Mab Monroe ended that chapter in her life-think again-someone even more dangerous has taken up residence in Ashland and considers The Spider and everyone she knows- fair game in a war of power and control. No one will be safe with the new dealer in town.

If you are a fan of urban fantasy storylines with a kick-a$$ heroine who knows a thing or two about pain and suffering then Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series and POISON PROMISE should be your go-to series when the UF cravings take hold.

READING ORDER

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Interview

With the release of POISON PROMISE The Reading Cafe would like to welcome back author Jennifer Estep and catch up on what’s new.

Jennifer Estep TRC: Hi Jennifer and welcome back to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of POISON PROMISE. We would like to start with some general questions.

JE: Thanks for hosting me on the blog again! I appreciate it.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

JE: Well, my mom used to take me to the library every Saturday as a kid, so that’s how I fell in love with books and reading in the first place. So I think that wanting to write my own stories grew out of all that.

TRC: When not writing, what do you do to relax?

JE: I do yoga, hang out with friends and family, read, and watch TV/movies.

TRC: Is there any profession that you would have liked to enter but never had the opportunity?

JE: I always thought that it would be fun to work with animals, maybe in a zoo or as a veterinarian.

Poison Promise Aug 14 TRC: POISON PROMISE is your latest urban fantasy release. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

JE: Poison Promise is the 11th book in my Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series. It will be released on July 22.

The series focuses on Gin Blanco, an assassin codenamed the Spider who can control the elements of Ice and Stone. When she’s not busy killing people and righting wrongs, Gin runs a barbecue restaurant called the Pork Pit in the fictional Southern metropolis of Ashland. The city is also home to giants, dwarves, vampires, and elementals – Air, Fire, Ice, and Stone.

In Poison Promise, Gin has to protect someone who witnesses a horrible crime, so the story features a lot of magic, action, and adventure.

TRC: Are any of the characters or the premise based in reality or a combination of reality and fiction? Do you add your personality to Gin or any of the other characters?

JE: Not really. I always say that I write fantasy books because I can make up the whole thing. LOL.

I put some small bits and pieces of my personality into Gin and some of the other characters. For example, Gin loves to read, like I do. But for the most part, the characters stand on their own.

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the Elemental Assassin Series?

Elemental Assassin Series

JE: As of right now, I’m contracted for 13 books in the series, or one more after Black Widow, book #12, which comes out on Nov. 25. But I hope to write at least a few more books in the series beyond that. We’ll see what happens.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, logistics, background) did you encounter writing this particular series?

JE: I think a challenge with writing any series is giving fans of the series all the familiar elements that they enjoy – characters, settings, etc. – while still keeping things fresh and interesting. Whenever I sit down to write a new Elemental Assassin book, I always try to think of new things, including new places for Gin and my other characters to visit in Ashland and new bad guys with new magic for Gin to face down.

TRC: Now that the MYTHOS ACADEMY series has finished, do you have any plans for another YA series?

Mythos Academy

JE: I have been working on a new YA series. It’s going to be called the Black Blade series, and it’s about magic, monsters, and mobsters. The first book will be called Cold Burn of Magic, and it’s set to be released in 2015.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

JE: When I sit down to start writing a book, I have the characters and the big turning points of the story in mind. Sometimes, a character will do something that surprises me, or the story will go in a different direction than I expected, but for the most part, I direct the characters.

TRC: The mark of a good writer is to pull the reader into the storyline so that they experience the emotions along with the characters. What do you believe a writer must do to make this happen? Where do you believe writer’s fail in this endeavor?

JE: I think a big part of writing an engaging, entertaining story is to enjoy what you’re writing. For example, don’t write a zombie book (or whatever) just because zombies are popular right now. If you try to write a zombie book and you hate all things zombie-related, then it’s going to show in your writing. You’re not going to have fun writing the book, and readers aren’t going to have fun reading it.

But if you write something that you enjoy, then it will show in your writing, and readers are more likely to enjoy your writing as well.

TRC: Writer’s Block is a very real phenomenon. How do you handle the pressures and anxiety of writer’s block?

JE: Well, writing is my full-time job, so if I don’t write and don’t meet my deadlines, then I don’t get paid. There are some days when I don’t feel like writing. When that happens, I work on something else – guest blogs, social media, updating my website, etc. There is always something that needs to be done. Then, maybe the next day, I go back and start writing again. You just have to power through and keep moving forward, even if you are struggling with a character, plot point, etc. Eventually, it will get better.

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas and information with other authors or friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

JE: Sometimes, I will bounce ideas off my significant other or some folks in my local book club.

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

JE: I would like to write some new books/series; read more books for fun; and find a better balance between work and everything else in my life.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

JE: Right now, I’m working on Black Widow, Elemental Assassin #12, which will be out on Nov. 25.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

JE: If folks want more info on my books, they can check out my website at www.jenniferestep.com or follow me on Facebook, Goodreads, and Twitter.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite TV Show – Arrow

Last Movie You Saw – The LEGO Movie

Favorite Musical Group – The Killers

Dark or Milk Chocolate – Dark chocolate

Secret Celebrity Crush – Chris Evans and Sebastian Stan in Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Last Vacation Destination – New Orleans

Do you have any pets? – No

Pet Peeve – People who are rude

TRC: Thank you Jennifer for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the release of Poison Promise. Wishing you all the best.

JE: Thanks! I appreciate that. Happy reading, everyone!

JENNIFER’S SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:

Website: http://www.jenniferestep.com/
Blog: http://www.jenniferestep.com/blog/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JenniferEstepAuthor?fref=ts
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Jennifer_Estep (@Jennifer_Estep)
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/580315.Jennifer_Estep

giveaway

Jennifer is generously offering a paper copy of POISON PROMISE to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Like Jennifer Estep on Facebook for an additional entry.

6. Giveaway is open to USA only.

7. Giveaway runs from July 22-July 26 , 2014

The Spider (Elemental Assassin #10) by Jennifer Estep-a review

Posted on December 23, 2013 by Sandy

The Spider (Elemental Assassin #10) by Jennifer Estep-a review

The Spider

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 24, 2013

For the first time, the origins of Gin Blanco’s career as the deadly assassin “the Spider” are revealed in full. In a story that pre-dates the other nine books in the series, Gin Blanco goes through her paces to become the most feared assassin in the Ashland.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE SPIDER is the tenth full length storyline in Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series and one that focuses on ten years in the past. Jennifer takes the reader on a reflective ride following one of Gin’s biggest mistakes and regrets. When a bouquet of black roses is delivered to Gin at the Pork Pit, The Spider begins to reminisce about the past and the one time in her life she can never take back.

The Spider follows a time when Gin was too quick to jump to conclusions and in doing so hurts the very people she is trying to protect. Still training under the direction of Fletcher Lane, Gin takes control of a contract hit that was never intended to be anything other than a job. But soon Gin will find herself falling for the wrong man and with it the realization that not everyone or everything is as it seems. Knowing she has made a monumental error in judgment, Gin is forced to do the only thing she can-take out those responsible for setting her up to take the fall.

Jennifer Estep’s signature style of Gin’s first person POV brings the reader up close and personal with one of the most feared assassins in the fictional town of Ashland. Many of the Elemental Assassin’s secondary characters play a small role including Gin’s first encounter with Owen; Jo Jo and Sophia; Finn and the late Fletcher Lane; and a brief glimpse at someone Gin had long since thought dead. The storyline will go full circle from present day to a decade earlier then back to the future where Gin knows that there is never enough she can do to right the wrongs from so many years before.

THE SPIDER is a story that delves deeper into the ‘who’ and the ‘what’ that is Gin Blanco-The Spider. We watch as a young, lonely and naïve Gin falls victim to a socio-pathic killer and the results will push our heroine into a world of pain and regret and a world where she will forever be looking out for a young girl whose life was torn apart by the actions of the woman who thought she was saving the world.

Jennifer Estep pulls the reader into a storyline of betrayal and pain; love and hate; and a world of supernatural beings, who one way or another, will make their presence known-from the past to the present and beyond.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Elemental Assassin Series

Heart of Venom (Elemental Assassin #9) by Jennifer Estep-a dual review

Posted on August 14, 2013 by Sandy

Heart of Venom (Elemental Assassin #9) by Jennifer Estep-a dual review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository

HEART OF VENOM (Elemental Assassin #9) by Jennifer Estep

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 27, 2013

The hotly anticipated ninth novel in the hugely popular Elemental Assassin series finds Gin Blanco on a dangerous mission to rescue a friend.

When a terror from the past threatens Gin’s friend and body-disposer, Sophia, Gin will stop at nothing to protect her, even if it means walking straight into a killer’s trap. Meanwhile, the rocky romance between Gin and Owen reaches a turning point—can they reunite and rekindle their love? Or will the things Gin has been forced to do in her line of work as the deadly assassin the Spider keep them apart forever? Assuming, that is, she survives long enough to find out…

••••••••••••

REVIEW by Sandy

HEART OF VENOM is the 9th installment in Jennifer Estep’s Urban Fantasy series the Elemental Assassin. Gin Blanco is the hired assassin known as The Spider. With her dual elements of Stone and Ice and, her ability to wield a knife, Gin is a threat to Ashland’s mobsters, vampires and assorted supernatural beings. But when those she calls family are threatened and hurt, Gin knows only one thing-get in, take down and get out. And that is exactly what Gin does best as long as she does not get caught in the act.

Heart of Venom is a storyline fraught with graphic violence and torture. Jennifer’s use of descriptive language will pull the reader into the scene where the senses will be assaulted at various levels. This storyline and series are not for the feint of heart.

Sophia and Jo Jo are the dwarf sisters who defend, heal and protect Gin as well as stand by her side in battle. But Heart of Venom belongs to the sisters as Sophia’s past catches up and Gin must attempt a rescue before Sophie is permanently taken from their lives. Like many of the previous installments, Gin will attempt the rescue on her own but there is always someone to watch her back. Sending everyone home is never a very good idea.

Jennifer Estep includes plenty of background information throughout Heart of Venom as it pertains to Sophia and Jo Jo’s first encounter with Gin’s mentor and friend Fletcher, as well as Sophia’s previous torture at the hands of a man who proclaims to want Sophia as his own. Some of the history between Gin and the sisters is revealed and by doing so reads as a prelude to the next installment in the series-The Spider-the prequel storyline in The Elemental Assassin series.

For those who have been following the series, there have been some issues with Gin and her relationship with her (ex) lover, friend and mate Owen. Heart of Venom will see a resolution to their relationship troubles (good or bad) that have been mounting throughout the series and reached impossible odds in book #7 Widow’s Web. My only regret is that there wasn’t more revelation details and development behind Owen’s decision-OH, but wait-Jennifer has released a novella Kiss of Venom -Owen’s POV and guess what-yes, the reader is taken on Owen’s journey of reflection and regret.

Jennifer Estep brings together Gin’s family of elementals and human, vampires, dwarves and giants. Fans will recognize many of the previous storyline characters and will be re-introduced to a familiar name that will bring more problems in the books to follow. I suspect the next arc in the series will begin in book #11.

Heart of Venom is a fast paced storyline of danger, intrigue, death and destruction and, a little sex. Jennifer pushes the momentum forward: there is never any time to rest for the reader or The Assassin because when you do, you will be caught in a web-not of your own making. The storyline flows smoothly; there are never any rough spots and the back history and story blends fluidly throughout the novel.

Copy supplied by Edelweiss

••••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW by Barb

Heart of Venom is the 9th book in Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series. Rather then duplicate the storyline, which Sandy has done so well, I will discuss my highlights of this book.

I really enjoy this series, as Jennifer Estep continually keeps us on our toes with exciting, action packed thrilling adventures. But most of all, Gin, as the assassin Spider, is one of my top kick ass heroines. What I also love about Gin is how she will do anything, including offer her life to save those she considers her family. Heart of Venom was Gin at her best, determined to save Sophia from a powerful enemy of her past. Estep does a fantastic job of refreshing your memory of what has happened previously, as well as allowing us to learn what happened to Sophia all those years ago, when Fletcher saved her.

With her emotions running rampant, Gin pulls everything she has to fight two very strong fire elementals, with the help of her ex-lover Owen, and some others from her close knit group. Sandy is right when she says this is a violent bloody battle all the way, as Gin acts out on her need for vengeance & to save Sophia. Throughout the battle, and there are two major ones, Gin does not come out of this unscathed, but our heroine is a survivor.

Jennifer Estep has a wonderful secondary cast of recurring characters that you care about…Owen, Finn, Bria, Sophia, JoJo; just to name a few. She also creates great villains, like the departed Mab, or in this book, Harley and Hazel were horrible people, but super villains.

In between all the action in this book, it was nice to see Gin and Owen work together and try to mend their relationship. There was a hot steamy scene between them that made all the waiting worth it. I must add that I would like to attend one of Gin’s gatherings where she cooks such awesome food.

Heart of Venom is non-stop action from start to finish. Another wonderful reason to enjoy this series is the different elemental powers that are amazing to watch. Heart of Venom is another wonderful book in Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series, and Gin Blanco, the Spider is a great heroine to follow.

Copy supplied by Edelweiss.

ELEMENTAL ASSASSIN series by Jennifer Estep reading order. Please note that most of the short stories can be read for FREE or found in other anthologies. The novellas are not stand alones but incremental to the series.

Elemental Assassin Series

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Tag Archives: Elemental Assassin

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Heart of Venom (Elemental Assassin #9) by Jennifer Estep-a dual review