Spider’s Revenge (Elemental Assassin, #5) by Jennifer Estep

Jul 28, 2011 Katie(babs) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Spider’s Revenge is the fifth book in Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series. The main protagonist is Gin Blanco, a semi-retired assassin with the ability to use the elements as weapons, known as the elusive Spider. Gin owns a BBQ joint and moonlights as an assassin whose objective is to take down the nasty Mab Monroe, the mob boss of the Ashland underworld and the one who made Gin an orphan at thirteen by killing her parents and youngest sister. The fifth book is what I call the Return of t...more Spider’s Revenge is the fifth book in Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series. The main protagonist is Gin Blanco, a semi-retired assassin with the ability to use the elements as weapons, known as the elusive Spider. Gin owns a BBQ joint and moonlights as an assassin whose objective is to take down the nasty Mab Monroe, the mob boss of the Ashland underworld and the one who made Gin an orphan at thirteen by killing her parents and youngest sister. The fifth book is what I call the Return of the Jedi book. It brings everything to an explosive conclusion because this is where Gin and Mab finally come face to face with one another.

Gin comes across as a solitary character, but through the course of the past four books, that has changed. Gin has an extended family and friends. Gin is now in a relationship with Owen, a rich business man with a shady past who understand her and accepts her for all that she is. Gin has come to the conclusion how important Owen is to her. Finn, who’s Gin’s brother in her heart but not of her blood, is her ultimate backup and has a James Bond type of appeal to him (Plus an addiction to hickory coffee). Flynn is a character full of possibilities, especially when he sets his sights on Bria Snow, a detective and Gin’s missing sister. There’s just enough sparks between these two and a nice conclusion to their attraction, where you can’t help but want to see more of. I’m hoping Bria and Finn will have their own book, or at least a short story.

The title says it all with this latest by Jennifer Estep. A major story arc has finished here but some things remain open. The fighting scenes are some of the best Jennifer has written and there are a few surprises ad twists. I feel this is the best book in this series and I can’t wait to see what’s left for Gin and her crew, especially in regards to Gin’s unfinished business with her former lover, Donovan Caine, who may or may not appear in the next book.

If you haven’t read Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series, what are you waiting for? Spider’s Revenge has the best of everything from a heroine with major balls and a romance I’ve become addicted to. Team Owen and Gin for the win! (less)

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Sep 14, 2011 Jen (Red Hot Books) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: arcs, elemental-assassin, urban-fantasy

Every time I start a new Elemental Assassin book, it's like visiting an old friend. Not that I'm tight with any killers. But these books are so familiar, inviting, exciting and fun. What's more... They are consistent. The series has a tone, a voice, that never wavers. And from the first page of each installment, I am back in Gin's world, like I never left.

Fans of the series have been waiting for this book from the beginning. We've known for a long time that Mab Monroe is the woman who killed Gin...more Every time I start a new Elemental Assassin book, it's like visiting an old friend. Not that I'm tight with any killers. But these books are so familiar, inviting, exciting and fun. What's more... They are consistent. The series has a tone, a voice, that never wavers. And from the first page of each installment, I am back in Gin's world, like I never left.

Fans of the series have been waiting for this book from the beginning. We've known for a long time that Mab Monroe is the woman who killed Gin's family; the woman who set in motion the life-changing events that turned her into an assassin. Now Gin is finally poised to have her revenge and kill her nemesis. One of the things that surprised me, though, is that Gin's efforts begin on page 1. From the start, our Spider has her crossbow in hand, ready to fire. But, as Gin likes to remind us, luck is rarely on her side. The hit doesn't go according to plan --and her attempts only ratchet things up another notch.

Ashland is crawling with bounty hunters, targeting not only Gin, but her baby sister Bria too. And with that risk, there can be no more waiting. Gin has to step up her game and finally strike down Mab before she loses the last living member of her family.

There were so many things I loved about this book. The action is awesome. The characters are wonderfully fleshed out. (Their voices are so clear, I feel like I know them.) We're treated to more great nuggets of backstory... Including the recounting of what happened to Sophia all those years ago. We've got more progression in Gin's relationship with the amazing Owen. And of course, the big showdown... which doesn’t disappoint.

There are only two things that keep me from shouting from the rooftops. One, Estep does tend to repeat details. Like the fact Mab is "the most powerful elemental born in 500 years." I think we got that nugget 3 or 4 times. Granted, I read an advanced copy and perhaps all those references won't exist in the final copy. But it bears a mention. The second issue: what I'll refer to as Bria and Finn's "big mistake." I won't spoil the details, but the pair makes a major error in judgement that just didn't work for me. Their lapse felt out of character for both of them, given the circumstances they were in. It felt more like a plot device than a natural progression, and it bothered me.

But (and this is a big BUT) neither issue would keep me from recommending this book. Gin is such a great character. She is smart, brave, loyal and strong. Estep never shies away from the fact that she is a killer but there is never any doubt that she is also a heroine. Even though I know there are more installments in the works, this book could have easily served as an end for the series. I felt so good when I finished... triumphant. And I loved reading that last line: "My name is Gin. And I kill people." You're damn right! 4 1/2 stars.

*ARC Provided by author for review(less)

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Sep 29, 2011 Erika Badass rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

"My name is Erika. I'm glad this story ARC is OVER."

I wrote a more in depth review (Ok so I may have ranted a little) at Badass

3.5 stars or grade: B-

Want to know what I love about the Elemental Assassin series?

1) Kick ass heroine named Gin--like the liquor, who will Un-apologetically kill you and smile about it

2) Awesome secondary characters who are all necessary to the plot and health of the story

3) Cool Fight sequences

4) I like the Elemental Magic aspect

Want to know what drove me absolutely...more

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Oct 14, 2011 Lady Heather rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: eagerly-anticipating, favorites, jennifer-estep, love-the-author-a-must-buy, magic, paranormal-romance, thriller-suspense, urban-fantasy, vampires, best-series, kindle

I really enjoyed this story...but the author was driving me CRAZY with all the repetition!
I think almost every chapter she re-iterated 'what had happened to Gin', 'who had done it', and 'how much she hated Mab', and couldn't wait to 'kill the bitch'...after awhile it was YADA-YADA-YADA!

Underneath all the repetition, there was a decent story, with a GREAT, exciting, on the edge of your seat ending!

I actually cried a couple of times reading the story. It was good to find out a little more about...more

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Sep 27, 2011 Julia rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, fiction, arcs, urban, dropbox

Gin's battle with Mab, simmering for so long, finally comes to a head, and the fight is just as explosive and difficult as one would expect. On top of that, with Owen and Bria in her life, Gin's emotional scar tissue is stretching. At a time with the Spider has the ultimate danger of a fight with her nemesis, for the first time in a long time, she also has a lot to lose.

Strangers to the Elemental Assassin series could actually jump in with this book and come up to speed very quickly. Gin, once a...more

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Feb 11, 2012 mrsj rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: must-get-list

Ding dong! The bitch is finally dead.

After Gin Blanco aka Genevieve Snow aka The Spider who keeps two silverstone knives up her sleeves, one against the small of her back and two at the side of her boots finally danced with Mab, the woman who killed her mother and her elder sister and melted a spider rune into her both palms.
She had accepted helps from her boyfriend and friends to kill Mab. The Fire Elemental, who had killed her mother and elder sister years ago.

Owen who has blue-black hair,...more

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Jan 07, 2012 VampireNovelFan rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, vampires, abandoned-series

A novella of a story at a novel’s price

The fifth Elemental Assassin entry aims to wrap up the long standing arc since Book 1. It's Mab Monroe vs. Gin Blanco aka The Spider aka Genevieve Snow. It's the final show down to prove once and for all who is the strongest. Mab is pulling out all stops to finish what she started 17 years ago while Gin's not backing down to exact revenge that she's been working towards since then herself. Who will win?

This series has so much potential, but I'm disappointe...more A novella of a story at a novel’s price

The fifth Elemental Assassin entry aims to wrap up the long standing arc since Book 1. It's Mab Monroe vs. Gin Blanco aka The Spider aka Genevieve Snow. It's the final show down to prove once and for all who is the strongest. Mab is pulling out all stops to finish what she started 17 years ago while Gin's not backing down to exact revenge that she's been working towards since then herself. Who will win?

This series has so much potential, but I'm disappointed that things really didn't get going until the half way point. Estep spends the first third of the book practically summarizing what's happened in the previous books which annoys me to no end. It drastically affects my enjoyment of the book; this was the same pitfall for the previous installment. A pattern is now obvious.

Once you get over that, there are some moments and parallels that I saw coming from a mile away, but I still enjoyed them regardless. We learn back story about a couple of supporting characters and we get to see others characters finally in action and kicking some ass, which I liked as well.

I'm typically drawn to series that are primarily character-driven, so a lot of the time I will gloss over the action, but Elemental Assassin is one of the few where I really get into it. I read this series for the action moreso than the characters if I really think about it. The pace is just right, the intensity is there, and it's not very confusing. I think it really helps that we're in the mind of a stone cold killer. She's not some innocent girl still finding herself and trying to react to the bad guy. Gin is genuinely a badass, so I do give the series props for that.

While the action is at an all time high, due to the continuous repitition, the predicability, and the over-explaining (Estep literally makes a page out of something that could be one sentence), I can't ever give this series more than 3 stars until the author gets over those glaringly lazy attempts to fill pages. It needs more substance. Period. The first couple of books are exceptions for obvious reasons. But at this point, each new installment is essentially a novella of a story at the price of a novel. (less)

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Sep 29, 2011 Kelli rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: audiobooks

This review is specific to the audiobook version narrated by Lauren Fortgang.

Book: B
Narration: B

Gin Blanco has been waiting for this moment since she was a child and it’s finally here. The time has come for her big showdown with Mab Monroe: the ultra-powerful Fire elemental who killed Gin’s mother and older sister and has caused her so much grief. I’ve seen Gin embrace her life as the assassin nicknamed The Spider and watched her kill without remorse. I’ve been along for the ride as she lost her...more This review is specific to the audiobook version narrated by Lauren Fortgang.

Book: B
Narration: B

Gin Blanco has been waiting for this moment since she was a child and it’s finally here. The time has come for her big showdown with Mab Monroe: the ultra-powerful Fire elemental who killed Gin’s mother and older sister and has caused her so much grief. I’ve seen Gin embrace her life as the assassin nicknamed The Spider and watched her kill without remorse. I’ve been along for the ride as she lost her mentor, lost her confidence in her ability to be loved after being rejected by her lover, nominally retired only to find herself taking on pro bono work, found the baby sister she thought was dead, found another chance at love, and gradually worked her way towards avenging her family’s murder - one body at a time. In comparison, I have only been waiting one year and eight months for a resolution to this chapter in Gin’s life but it was worth the wait.

Mab Monroe knows The Spider is coming for her so she puts a bounty on the assassin’s head, never realizing Gin Blanco, the unassuming owner of the Pork Pit (Ashland’s best BBQ joint) is The Spider. Gin’s sister, Detective Bria Coolidge, is also in Mab’s crosshairs under the mistaken impression that Bria is the sister who wields dual elements strong enough to pose a threat to Mab. As the story progresses, the masks come off, the body count rises, and the only way Gin is getting out of this one alive is if she can learn to rely on her friends and family and trust in her elemental Ice and Stone powers.

It will come as no surprise, given the way I describe Gin, that I find her a surprisingly relatable and oddly sympathetic character. Urban Fantasy is scattered with tough women but Gin brings something unique to the table. I find it refreshing to engage with a character who is blunt, brash, always ready with an F-bomb, sure she knows the best solution to every problem (which usually involves a fatal application of her silverstone knives) and truly unrepentant about being a killer. On the flip side of that coin, she is a character who is humanized by her awkward skills at relating to people, her tortured nightmares of her family’s murder, her intense feelings of guilt at her perceived failure to save her family and her mentor, her struggle to find love and acceptance from her romantic interests, and the soft-spot she develops for those who have no other place to turn for help.

There’s a very superhero/comic book vibe to this series. Not a surprise given a protagonist with a secret identity, super-powers, an evil nemesis with minions at her beck and call, a city that becomes a character all its own, and very vivid fight scenes. I’ll admit that by this, the fifth book, some of the new has worn off and elements of the world Gin inhabits have become repetitive. Gin’s multiple references to her “black black” heart and repeat reminders of past events (even from earlier in the book, not just series refreshers) does a disservice to the reader, whose memory and ability to cull inference from the “show” part of the narrative and not the “tell” part should be given more respect. Overall, though, this book (and this series) is a vivid, straight-forward, action-packed, engaging listen. It’s peopled with interesting characters who grow throughout the series and it moves forward at a nice pace with plenty of well-written and exciting action sequences.

Lauren Fortgang turns in a good narration with this book. Her voice embodies Gin Blanco for me and each character is uniquely voiced. I’d be interested to hear male/female differentiation done in more subtle tones since I feel like too many of the male characters get a growl to their voice as part of the masculine characterization. To be fair, a lot of those voices belong to giants (and now that I think about it their voices sound a lot like you would expect if you were reading Jack and the Beanstalk out loud and dropped into a gravelly voice to say “Fe Fi Fo Fum”…) and that may also contribute to that air of comic book-ness I pick up. The core narrative is delivered in a deliberate and relaxed drawl apropos of the fictional Southern setting, the range of Gin’s emotions are nicely conveyed, and the tension that builds during action scenes is superbly assisted by the vocal choices of the narrator.

A good wrap-up to the first arc in a really fun series - this audiobook delivers tension, action, and good narration that draws you into the world.
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Jan 31, 2013 Carmel (Rabid Reads) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: audio

Reviewed by: Rabid Reads

*** MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS ***

The showdown between Mab Monroe and Gin Blanco has been a long time coming; five books worth in fact but Spider’s Revenge makes the wait worthwhile. Jennifer Estep doesn’t waste any time and jumps right into the thick of things, she then proceeds to keep readers on edge, biting their nails up until the final pages with several close calls but not to worry, the Spider always gets her man woman.

I’ve been dishing out nothing but the highest of p...more Reviewed by: Rabid Reads

*** MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS ***

The showdown between Mab Monroe and Gin Blanco has been a long time coming; five books worth in fact but Spider’s Revenge makes the wait worthwhile. Jennifer Estep doesn’t waste any time and jumps right into the thick of things, she then proceeds to keep readers on edge, biting their nails up until the final pages with several close calls but not to worry, the Spider always gets her man woman.

I’ve been dishing out nothing but the highest of praise for the Elemental Assassin series ever since I read the first book back in September and this fifth installment will be no different. Aside from a few minor annoyances, namely Estep’s need to constantly recap characters’ and previous books’ happenings, Spider’s Revenge met all of my expectations and then some. Readers get to see a more fallible side to the fearless assassin which is to be expected when everything she holds dear is on the line. Emotions equal mistakes and in this installment we see Blanco’s infamous patience slip on several occasions. Granted, it must be hard to not get twitchy when you have your arch nemesis in your crossbow scope but it was interesting to see Gin’s calm demeanor crack.

For me, the gravy of these books have been Estep’s riveting first person POV writing style and the non-stop action; never in a million years did I ever expect to find myself balling my eyes out but I did. Twice. The first instance was when all of Gin’s friends rallied around her and adamantly refused to let her take on Mab alone. Blanco selfishly helped all of these people and when the going gets tough, they have her back. I loved watching the realization dawn on her that she’s no longer alone in her corner; it brought tears to my eyes. It really did. The second instance was her near death encounter with her mentor, Fletcher Lane. Even though this character has been deceased since Spider’s Bite, he’s been a constant presence in Gin’s life and I was overjoyed that she got the chance to ask him all of her burning questions. What I wouldn’t give for the same chance.

This novel really felt like a conclusion but thankfully it’s not; I don’t think that I’ll be ready to say goodbye to Gin Blanco anytime soon. The main and secondary plot lines come full circle is a neat symmetrical way including ending the book the same way that it all began. Many truths are unveiled including the facts about Sophia and her mangled voice. This tidbit alone makes this novel a worthwhile read in my opinion. Well that and the fact that Gin finally owns up to her feelings for Owen Grayson. Spider’s Revenge is a picture perfect ending that I won’t soon forget. I’m beyond anxious to begin the next chapter in Gin’s life, By a Thread.

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Jan 19, 2012 All Things Urban Fantasy rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: reviewed-by-julia

In SPIDER’S REVENGE Gin's battle with Mab, simmering in the background for so long, finally comes to a head. Estep pits Gin and Mab head to head right from the start, and the fight is just as explosive and difficult as one would expect. On top of that, with Owen and Bria in her life, Gin's emotional scar tissue is breaking up. At a time with the Spider has to face the ultimate fight with her nemesis, she also has a lot more to lose than just her own life.

It is partly that emotional focus that ma...more

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May 23, 2013 Christine rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. After Elektra LaFleur's unsuccessful attempt to eliminate the Spider, Mab Monroe puts a bounty out on both the Spider and Bria. Gin and her team have to battle several bounty hunters before eliminating the most dangerous rival of all, Mab. But is Gin strong enough to defeat the woman with the strongest elemental power in the last 500 years?

'Spider's Revenge' started off in the most frustrating way possible. Gin (**mild spoiler alert**) attempts to kill Mab but she is unsuccessful due to her lac...more

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Mar 06, 2013 Romancing the Book rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Review: I’ve been in love with this series since book one. I’ve enjoyed watching Gin grow and her battle with Mab escalate. While there were a few stumbles along the way, Ms Estep is back on track and with this latest installment, she has a winner .

In Spider’s Revenge, Gin is finally ready to exact her revenge on Mab, who killed most of her family years before. She’s honed her assassin skills and with the support of her friends and family, it’s now time. Over the course of the series, Gin has sl...more

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Feb 15, 2013 Miss Amby rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: wish-list-finished-copy

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS - hiding review, just in case.

Spider's Revenge is a terrific end to the first story arc of this series. Like the other books in the series, it's action-packed and suspenseful. I couldn't put this one down. If you're a fan of urban fantasy, then this is one book you can't miss.

Gin's character comes to the end of its first growth cycle in this novel. Things come full circle in many ways, and I've enjoyed the past five novels of growth for her. I'm interested to see how she c...more MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS - hiding review, just in case.

Spider's Revenge is a terrific end to the first story arc of this series. Like the other books in the series, it's action-packed and suspenseful. I couldn't put this one down. If you're a fan of urban fantasy, then this is one book you can't miss.

Gin's character comes to the end of its first growth cycle in this novel. Things come full circle in many ways, and I've enjoyed the past five novels of growth for her. I'm interested to see how she changes in upcoming books. I know she's on a different path in life, and I agree with it. She's turning into a more sympathetic character, and she continues to blur the lines of right and wrong. I'm really happy with how she's turning out.

The secondary characters are still terrific, though Finn has disappointed me lately. He is a bit insensitive toward the end, and I really wanted to beat him in the face with a shoe. Also, Bria really let me down. I was hoping there'd be some girl out there who wouldn't hop into bed with Finn. Apparently not. Disappointing to say the least. Owen keeps getting more and more fantastic, though, and I really enjoyed getting to know more about Sophia.

The plot is action-packed, though frustrating at times. Mab is the enemy that just won't die. She's like the bad guy in a horror moving that keeps narrowly avoiding death and coming back when you least expect it. I wanted to scream out of frustration a few times when Gin missed an opportunity. Mab is definitely one stubborn foe, and one who is an excellent match for the Spider. The falling-action was my favorite part of this novel. It really made the whole frustrating ride through this book worthwhile.

Overall, as I've said before, I'd recommend this book and this series to urban fantasy fans. You're sure to love the Elemental Assassin series if you enjoy Kelley Armstrong's Women of the Otherworld, Kim Harrison, Patricia Brigg's Mercy Thompson series, and Laurell K. Hamilton. If you haven't read this series yet, you are missing out. (less)

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Nov 16, 2012 Van rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Spider’s Revenge is the fifth book in the Elemental Assassin series, and what readers been waiting for since book one…the showdown between Gin and Mab. The action starts immediately in chapter one, where we have Gin trudging up Mab’s roof going for the kill shot. To Gin dismay right when she was about to take an aim at Mab, she misses! She narrowly escapes with her life, but Gin chances at Mab has just gotten harder when she finds out bounty hunters from all over has come to retrieve an award on...more Spider’s Revenge is the fifth book in the Elemental Assassin series, and what readers been waiting for since book one…the showdown between Gin and Mab. The action starts immediately in chapter one, where we have Gin trudging up Mab’s roof going for the kill shot. To Gin dismay right when she was about to take an aim at Mab, she misses! She narrowly escapes with her life, but Gin chances at Mab has just gotten harder when she finds out bounty hunters from all over has come to retrieve an award on her. Anyone able to catch the Spider dead gets $5 Million, alive $10 Million. Gin not only has to make sure that doesn’t happen but also to make sure her friends and family don’t get caught in the crosshairs.

I’ve been a big fan of this series since I read the first book a couple of years ago, and like most readers was excited to finally see Gin take down the most feared woman of Ashland. I was expecting a crazy battle that will blow me away but was kind of let down. It was a good fight scene, and we got to see more of what Gin’s ice power can do (the apparently weaker of the two elements she has) but it didn’t give me goose bumps or have me at the edge of my seat. While not the best of the series, it was good enough. I enjoyed seeing the usual Gin Gang (Owen, Finn, Bria, Xavier, Roslyn, and the Deveraux sisters, they’re all great secondary characters that shape the main heroine of the story and the world of Ashland.

Overall a good read, but again there were a couple of flaws, one that bugged me the most was repetition. One of the flaw was Gin calling Bria ‘baby sister’, I don’t know…it just sounded weird and awkward to me. I don’t go around calling my siblings ‘hey big brother, or hey big sister lol. Second flaw is Ms. Estep repeats a lot of the information over and over…it was either every chapter or every other chapter. I didn’t think it was necessary to tell readers that Gin is an assassin, that she’s the spider, or that she kills people for a living every other page. This is the fifth book in the series, I think those reading it, get it. This was a similar issue I had with her young-adult series, and after the second book I gave up. I’ve devoted a lot of time and connection with Gin, the other characters and the world that I didn’t want to do the same to this series. I just hope in the future books there will be less repetition, otherwise I don’t think I would continue with this series. (less)

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Oct 27, 2012 Richard rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Normally, I'd write about some of the quirks of Jennifer Estep's writing.

But anyone who reached this point in the series is probably aware that Gin (like the liquor) Blanco has five silver-stone (a metal that absorbs magic) knives (one up each sleeve, one in her boots, and one in the small of her back) secreted on her. And she spends huge amounts of time helping people (while being a super-cold-hearted-assassin).

And we're told of the parenthetical things every five pages.

But, five books into th...more

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Aug 31, 2012 Dark Faerie Tales rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed-by-sheila

Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales

Quick & Dirty: The Spider faces off against her nemesis, Mab Monroe, once and for all.

Opening Sentence: Old habits die hard for assassins.

The Review:

Thirteen years ago, Genevieve Snow’s entire family was murdered by a Fire Elemental known as Mab Monroe. Nowadays, Genevieve goes by the name of Gin Blanco: Restaurant owner by day, deadly pro-bono assassin at night. After years of searching, making plans, too many man-hours of preparation, and lots of trainin...more Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales

Quick & Dirty: The Spider faces off against her nemesis, Mab Monroe, once and for all.

Opening Sentence: Old habits die hard for assassins.

The Review:

Thirteen years ago, Genevieve Snow’s entire family was murdered by a Fire Elemental known as Mab Monroe. Nowadays, Genevieve goes by the name of Gin Blanco: Restaurant owner by day, deadly pro-bono assassin at night. After years of searching, making plans, too many man-hours of preparation, and lots of training, Gin is ready to take out the most deadly person in Ashland’s Underworld. Can Gin do what no one else has been able to pull off? Will the chance at Mab’s life demand the sacrifice of Gin’s? Will it be worth it if it is?

Gin starts the book by trying to take out Mab alone. Oops, she missed! Now the race is on to take out Mab before she has a chance to repay the favor. Mab has placed a substantial bounty on both the Spider and Bria Coolidge’s, Gin’s long lost baby sister, heads. It will take every ally Gin’s got in order to achieve her goal of revenge. Mab’s character has always come across as controlled and arrogant but when the botched assassination attempt was made, in her home no less, Mab reacts badly. Her strength, money, and connections have always served her every need in the past; yet, only a simple twist of fate stopped her from ending up with an arrow through her eye instead of her minion. While I understand the need for Mab to show no weakness to her competitors, her reactions serve to emphasize how her safety, her pedestal of dominance, is not as infallible as she thought it was.

While the hunt for the Spider is on, the orders from Mab to detain Bria make it obvious that she now knows about their familial connection. When the Spider’s identity is unveiled, Mab does everything in her power to make everyone Gin knows pay. Gin’s group of friends and family band together to help, not just for survival, but for a much larger purpose: Gin has done extraordinary things in the past for these people and now they have a chance to return the favor. This camaraderie is as heartfelt as it is invigorating. For Gin, a woman that has been taught and trained to rely on just herself, to have the support of so many makes even the most cold hearted feel the love. It is good to see Gin recognize and accept the help of others. This only helps attest to Gin’s emotional growth since the first book.

So, where will the series go from here? There are a few loose ends and questions that still need to be resolved, but I think that this doesn’t have to be the end of Gin and her story. Her character is strong, confident, and assertive. Anything that Gin gets involved in from here on out is still worth the time to read about. No matter what, I think that we haven’t yet begun to see the last of Ashland and its “colorful” inhabitants, Mab or no Mab.

Notable Scene:

I stayed where I was, down on one knee, as though I were still dazed from his hard hit. The giant’s grin widened, his hand clenched into a fist once more, and he stepped toward me, ready to knock my head the rest of the way off my shoulders. He didn’t see my right hand fall to my side or the glint of metal that suddenly appeared there.

Arrogance will get you, every single time.

FTC Advisory: Simon & Schuster/Pocket Books graciously provided me with a copy of Spider’s Revenge. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review. The only payment received came in the form of hugs and kisses from my little boys.
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May 23, 2012 Sara rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 5-stars

Plot: 4.5 Stars
The epic showdown that all readers of this series have been waiting for: Gin vs. Mab. I could not wait to dig into this novel because I've wanted this showdown to happen since I read the first book. I had pretty high expectations going in, and it definitely didn't disappoint. There were some twists and turns before the epic battle that left me gaping at the pages as I read. Even knowing that the sixth book in the series comes out in January, I was worried for Gin and company when...more Plot: 4.5 Stars
The epic showdown that all readers of this series have been waiting for: Gin vs. Mab. I could not wait to dig into this novel because I've wanted this showdown to happen since I read the first book. I had pretty high expectations going in, and it definitely didn't disappoint. There were some twists and turns before the epic battle that left me gaping at the pages as I read. Even knowing that the sixth book in the series comes out in January, I was worried for Gin and company when the time came. There was a moment near the end that was a bit reminiscent of the last Harry Potter, but it really worked. It gave the reader a bit of insight into Gin. I also loved how this book continued to fill in the gaps in Gin's history.

Pace: 5 Stars
I could not put this novel down. This is definitely my favorite Urban Fantasy series, and the latest installment didn't disappoint. I haven't read a full-length novel as fast as I read this one in months. It was so refreshing to not want to put a book down. Even when the characters were planning their next move, it was anything but boring. Normally, the downtime between action scenes where the characters plan their next move can drag by a bit, but the author definitely has a way of leaving me on the edge of my seat before the action even begins. I also really enjoy how the author weaves in details of previous books. No matter how much time goes by between books, I'm never lost because each new novel includes the perfect amount of details.

Characters: 5 Stars
Although things are still tense, Gin and Bria are making progress. I really enjoyed their interactions in this novel as they tried to move forward. And with Bria hanging around more, Finn also got to know her more. The interactions between Bria and Finn were very entertaining. I was really excited to see more of Owen in this novel, especially when he was helping defend Gin. He was definitely a badass, and it was great to see him as more than just Gin's lover. This novel also involved a bit of growth for Gin. Normally a calm and cool assassin, she had a few moments that led to situations getting a bit out of hand. It was definitely a wild ride as she tried to get out of some sticky situations.

Cover: 5 Stars
My favorite part of this cover is how it embodies the epic showdown between Mab and Gin, fire and ice. It makes the cover stand out in the series. The first four covers were a bit more monochromatic, but this cover is a nice mix of complementary colors. The grayish-blue of the sky and stones really makes the orange of the fire stand out. I also really love the pose of the cover model. I just wish one of her spider runes were visible. This is the first cover in which neither of her palms are showing off the spider rune. This series has some of the best covers around because of the details. The setting of the covers are always specific scenes from the book, and this one is no different.

Overall: 5 Stars

Disclosure: I received an eARC of this novel for review from the author, and also received a finished copy as a gift from my girlfriend. (less)

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Mar 07, 2012 Paradoxical rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012-reading-list, books-otherwise

I enjoy the series. Really. Just not this book.

There's huge amounts of repetition (you seriously start wondering if the author is being paid by word because there is no reason as to why she needs to rehash the same things over and over again) and the main character is supposed to be tough, competent, and smart, but it feels like Jennifer Estep dropped the ball. The title perfectly matches what is going on plot wise--Gin is actually going to take down Mab this time. Great. It's about time. What k...more I enjoy the series. Really. Just not this book.

There's huge amounts of repetition (you seriously start wondering if the author is being paid by word because there is no reason as to why she needs to rehash the same things over and over again) and the main character is supposed to be tough, competent, and smart, but it feels like Jennifer Estep dropped the ball. The title perfectly matches what is going on plot wise--Gin is actually going to take down Mab this time. Great. It's about time. What kills me, kills me, about this book is that Gin is incompetent.

No, not even that. It's just really stupid coincidences make her miss killing Mab. More than once. It just drives me a little crazy. For someone who's supposed to be a great assassin (and we're told this constantly), the fact that she chokes when it really counts just makes me roll my eyes and wonder if the author felt like it needed something 'exciting' because Gin, honestly, should have killed Mab within the first fifty pages. Though, okay, I guess the author couldn't make it that easy to kill Mab considering that Gin spent the last four books not doing that.

But it pained me when Gin went after Mab again, even though she knew that it was a trap. Just. Why. There's being confident, and then there's being stupid.

You get more back story from Mab about why she killed Gin's family. It's nothing really exciting--just fairly typical family rivalry(ish) sorts of things that just... well, it was kind of boring, actually. To be honest, I was thrown out of the book early on and had to somewhat struggle to finish reading it, which is a shame since I've enjoyed the series a lot up until this book. I didn't care for Bria and Finn's relationship (honestly, Bria is just a convenient plot device), and I just wanted more of... something. Something to make it exciting and fun.

Well, at least this plot arc is done. The final fight was kind of boring and stereotypical. I felt like I could predict the events of the entire book. I just wanted something a little bit different--or at least better written because I wanted to tear out my hair over the constant repetitions. Honestly, I found the book to be 1-2 stars. Rounding up to 2 only because I liked the previous books. (less)

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Dec 29, 2011 Shawna rated it 3 of 5 stars

Based on the actually storyline, this book truly deserved 4.5 stars instead of the 3 stars I am giving it... I love the concept and the characters along with their progress and development. But I had one problem with this novel and the two novels prior to it, the continuous repetition of past events really ruined the experience of the book for me. I understand that the author wanted to make the book available to anyone who wanted to read it without making them have to start from the beginning wi...more

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Dec 25, 2011 drey rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011-reads, urban-fantasy

drey’s thoughts:
Well. Mab Monroe has messed with Gin for the last time. Now Gin’s on the warpath, and she’ll do anything to keep Mab from hurting her sister Bria. But her first attempt at Mab almost costs her her life… And earns the wrath of her friends.

And Mab’s trying to turn the tables on Gin, because suddenly Ashland is overrun with visitors–and not the kind that the Visitor’s Bureau invited over. Nope, Ashland’s playing host to a horde of bounty hunters and miscellaneous low-lifes. All at...more

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Nov 08, 2011 Cina rated it 2 of 5 stars

I'm sad that I was so disappointed with this book and I'm can't quite put a finger on it exactly. Spider in this book was not written as sneaky, or wily, or even smart. Instead of being a delicate assassin, Spider is written as if she was a cocky, overconfident rookie with mistakes to match. The Spider we first met had infiltrated an asylum and plotted her mission and escape with cool and panache. Who is this person? Has she devolved into a low-rank hitter for hire?

The repetition of "I'm the Spi...more

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Nov 02, 2011 Zoe rated it 5 of 5 stars

A brilliant wrap up to the Mab Monroe arc in this vivid and action packed series. It leaves an impact that the arc started and ended with the same line. Gin Blanco, this blunt,snarky and tough woman, changed for the better but in essence, she did not lose herself in the process. She is still the assassin she started out to be but a different person. She had finally come to terms to accept the love, care and acceptance from her family, friends and lover. It was wonderful that Gin had for most of...more

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Oct 22, 2011 Karissa rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This is the fifth book in the Elemental Assassins series by Estep. The 6th book will be titled, By a Thread, and is scheduled for a Feb 2012 release. The 7th book will be titled, Widow's Web, and is scheduled for a August 2012 release. This book was a good read but I didn't like it quite as much as the previous couple books. There was a bit too much recapping of the previous books and that got tedious as times.

The showdown between Mab and Gin has been a long time coming. When Gin takes a go at M...more This is the fifth book in the Elemental Assassins series by Estep. The 6th book will be titled, By a Thread, and is scheduled for a Feb 2012 release. The 7th book will be titled, Widow's Web, and is scheduled for a August 2012 release. This book was a good read but I didn't like it quite as much as the previous couple books. There was a bit too much recapping of the previous books and that got tedious as times.

The showdown between Mab and Gin has been a long time coming. When Gin takes a go at Mab by herself and botches it she's in big trouble. Now whole team (Finn, Owen, Bria, the dwarve sisters and others) will have to give Gin a hand in taking out the biggest meanie the city has ever known, Mab herself. When Mab calls in a bunch of hit men to take out Bria and Gin things get even crazier.

There is an absolutely terrific urban fantasy series. It is fast paced, has some great humor, some excellent action scenes, and some wonderful characters. The system of Elemental magic is interesting and fun to read about.

Gin is a wonderful character; she is snarky, tough, and loyal. Owen is a great compliment to her; he is caring, steadfast, and tough in his own right. The witty dialogue between the two is lots of fun to read about.

Finn and Bria also get a lot of development as characters in this story. We get to see a sensitive side of Finn that we've never seen before. We get to learn a lot more about Bria and it was awesome to see her and Gin working together.

This book finally wraps up the whole Mab versus Gin storyline. The final standoff between the two is just as wonderful and fabulous as I hoped it would be. The story wraps up wonderfully, leaving me wondering what will happen next for Gin.

The only thing that really bothered me was the constant recapping of the previous books. I understand that Estep wants to put enough info from previous books in here that it can stand on its own. What I don't understand is why? Information from the previous books is presented over and over again, to the point where it got very tedious to read parts of this book. I know all of the books in this series have had a bit of this and I like a bit to jog my memory. In this book though there was so much recapping of the previous books that it was actually distracting and it messed up the pace of the stoyr.

Overall a must read for fans of the series. If you love urban fantasy you have got to read this series. We finally get to see the outcome of the whole Mab versus Gin storyline and it was as wonderful as I had hoped. The characters are excellent, the magic system unique, and the action captivating. The only thing that really took away from the series was the constant inserting of info from previous books. The level of this recapping was excessive and made the story drag at points. Still, if you love urban fantasy you have got to check out this series...it is a fantastic one!(less)

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Oct 14, 2011 Kathy Davie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: action, fantasy, urban

Fifth in the Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series set in Ashland in the Appalachian Mountains.

The Story
Gin is determined to take Mab down and, despite her reputation for patience, Gin has obviously set that pesky characteristic aside as she flubs one killing attempt after another. On the plus side, Gin does learn just why it is that the city is experiencing so much more violence than usual as Mab has brought in an army of bounty hunters. All with but one aim---bringing the Spider down. And, i...more

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Oct 11, 2011 Jayre rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I did not enjoy this book.

For those of you who haven't read it yet, here is the synopsis.

Assassin Girl is taking revenge on evil witch for killing her parents.

That's it in a nutshell.

You would think it would be difficult to screw that up but Estep managed. Now I really don’t feel good being so harsh on this author's work, but I read the previous four novels, and enjoyed them for the most part (spiders bite is the best) of them.

What I liked about those books was the fact the Gin was ruthless,...more

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Oct 01, 2011 Catherine rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: assassin-killer-bounty-hunter, contemporary, excellent, fantasy-paranormal-sci-fi, magic-mystical-ability, read-2011, series, vampire

Wow. Just wow. I wasn’t really sure what to expect from the conclusion to the Mab story arc—other than badass action scenes, of course. ;) But whatever I expected, this was better. We got the same awesome cast of characters and thrilling action scenes, but we also saw a vulnerable side to Gin and got the pleasure of watching her and her friends solidify into a solid team.

Let me just say, I didn’t expect Gin’s confrontations with Mab to turn out how they did. I had a vague image of her and Finn...more Wow. Just wow. I wasn’t really sure what to expect from the conclusion to the Mab story arc—other than badass action scenes, of course. ;) But whatever I expected, this was better. We got the same awesome cast of characters and thrilling action scenes, but we also saw a vulnerable side to Gin and got the pleasure of watching her and her friends solidify into a solid team.

Let me just say, I didn’t expect Gin’s confrontations with Mab to turn out how they did. I had a vague image of her and Finn spending most of the book plotting, leading up to one big ass confrontation. How it turned out was so much better. There was one final climatic battle, but there were a lot of skirmishes along the way. I loved the uncertainty and vulnerability that Gin experienced after them. She’s apt to shoulder a lot of the blame when things go wrong, anyway, but here she had to face the fact that when the opportunity of a lifetime came around she faltered. Who wouldn’t angst over that?

Owen and Gin were excellent together. I’ve enjoyed them in the past, but here we got to see their relationship deepen. Gin finally opened herself up enough to be honest about her feelings. Due to Gin’s focus being on Mab, Owen is more of a background feature in the book, but he stood out whenever he was in a scene. Their scenes together and his unwavering devotion made me sigh. I can’t wait to see where they go from here.

I was thrilled to finally get more information on Jo-Jo and Sophia and their connection to Fletcher. I have wondered about it for a while now and was not disappointed with the truth. Sad and a little horrified, but not disappointed. This book did a really good job of strengthening Gin’s core group. I think Gin finally got an idea of what she means to everyone and exactly who she can count on when the chips are down. I also appreciated that Gin didn’t protest too much when the decision was made that she couldn’t handle this one alone.

I’m sure you can tell by now that I loved all the bits about the side characters. It wasn’t just the good guys that stood out, though. I also enjoyed an assassin team that was hunting Gin. Their dynamic nicely mirrored Gin’s connection to Fletcher and it was hard not to feel for them. The scene with the cookies really underscored Gin’s core self. No matter how much of a badass she is—and she is quite a badass—she never loses that core softness. She can be as cold and as vicious as they come, but her morals and her humanity will always have me on her side.

Finn and Bria were really great here, both individually and together. There came a time when they both royally screwed up, but I have to admire them for owning it. I wasn’t as upset with them as I probably should have been because (view spoiler)

I mentioned it before, but I loved, loved, loved the vulnerability that Gin showed. She was still tough as nails, but her feelings seemed closer to the surface when she wasn’t in her role as The Spider. At one point (view spoiler)

One last thing I have to mention about the book is the final showdown between Mab and Gin. That was AWESOME. Jennifer Estep writes excellent action scenes, and this one was even better because it had been so long in the making. Watching Gin and Mab duke it out had me on the edge of my seat. One word, people. Intense. (less)

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Sep 30, 2011 Lillie rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: aad2011, arc-galley, for-review, i-own, received-for-promotion, received-from-publisher, review-copy, reviewed-for-blog, series, simon-and-schuster-and-imprints

See the full review at: Read My Mind

My Review:
Every time I read a book that is 4 or later in a series without having read the previous books, I feel the need to state this right off in my review. I also feel the need to state that I read books out of order all the time, and the mark of a really great writer is being able to capture my attention without an info dump of the previous plotlines and characters. But at the same time, I don't want to feel like I have missed something. Jennifer Estep d...more

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Sep 29, 2011 Missy Fitch rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Review contains Spoilers..........................

This book was an action packed ride. I knew it would be exciting to finally see Gin take down the woman that murdered her family but I was really surprised at how much feeling was in the book. From Gin and Bria coming together as a family finally to Owen finally being able to break down Gin's walls around her heart it really resonated with me emotionally as well as suspense wise. Below is a more in depth review. It contains spoilers so I have mad...more Review contains Spoilers..........................

This book was an action packed ride. I knew it would be exciting to finally see Gin take down the woman that murdered her family but I was really surprised at how much feeling was in the book. From Gin and Bria coming together as a family finally to Owen finally being able to break down Gin's walls around her heart it really resonated with me emotionally as well as suspense wise. Below is a more in depth review. It contains spoilers so I have made it so you have to click to read so as not to spoil those that don't want to be spoiled.

(view spoiler)

What I didn't like.........

As with another reviewer I found Finn and Bria's lapse in judgement at a critical moment out of character for them, considering what Gin was doing at the time. That to me was the only thing that I found puzzling but it isn't that huge a deal for me. I can get past it because there was so much else that was wonderful about the book.

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Sep 29, 2011 Anna (Bobs Her Hair) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy

Grade: A (4.5 stars)

What an incredibly satisfying conclusion to a story arc! Spider’s Bite, Web of Lies, Venom, Tangled Threads, and the short stories on Jennifer Estep’s website have been building up to an elemental duel between the evil power-hungry Mab Monroe and the orphaned cold-blooded assassin Gin Blanco a.k.a. “the Spider.” The final showdown between these two characters is everything I hoped it would be. No fizzle in this sizzle!

From the beginning, Gin has been preparing to avenge the...more Grade: A (4.5 stars)

What an incredibly satisfying conclusion to a story arc! Spider’s Bite, Web of Lies, Venom, Tangled Threads, and the short stories on Jennifer Estep’s website have been building up to an elemental duel between the evil power-hungry Mab Monroe and the orphaned cold-blooded assassin Gin Blanco a.k.a. “the Spider.” The final showdown between these two characters is everything I hoped it would be. No fizzle in this sizzle!

From the beginning, Gin has been preparing to avenge the death of her family. Along the way, she reconnects with her sister, gains allies, acquires a supportive lover, and accesses more of her stone and ice powers. She steadily tracks her enemies, watches for opportunity, and slits their throats. Gin is a credible assassin, whose character never gets on my nerves by making dumbass decisions nor does she ever let her lips tremble nor do her eyes ever look at a man to save her. She’s able to slap herself around, become the Spider, and get a job/kill done.

I absolutely adore her lover, Owen Grayson! He accepts Gin, knives, blood and all. He does not suddenly become her sidekick or go super macho alpha on her. (Gin would slit a super macho alphas throat if he got in her way.) While I would love more Owen in the Elemental Assassin series, I appreciate that he isn’t inserted gratuitously into scenes just to please fans. The author stays focused on the plot. I respect that.

Gin and Bria’s relationship still has some growing pains but they are making headway. So, not fast happily-ever-after, best buds, toenail painting party, Ya-Ya sisterhood, yet. Finn, Gin’s foster brother, has his eye on someone. If you read Tangled Threads, you know who it is. Oh, to be a fly on the wall at Gin’s house. *wink* Sophia Deveraux’s story is finally revealed. It’s sad and, hopefully, her character will feel motivated to let go of her after the events in this story.

Overall, I’m very happy with the ending. I look forward to more Elemental Assassin books and would like to see what other Big Bads are going to arrive in Ashland for Gin to kill. Just to clarify, everything is wrapped up in Spider’s Revenge yet a new can of worms opens up for “the Spider.”
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Sep 27, 2011 Leontine rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy

!!Warning: If you haven’t read the previous books this review may contain spoilers!!

A long time ago a prophecy changes the course of so many people and now the reader is given the ultimate showdown. With the beginning of Spider’s Revenge, Jennifer Estep immediately sets the tone for the rest of the story. There was no gradually easing in to it with easy banter between characters. No, this time I was thrown smack-dab in the middle of a tension rife scene instantly elevating my blood pressure. I g...more !!Warning: If you haven’t read the previous books this review may contain spoilers!!

A long time ago a prophecy changes the course of so many people and now the reader is given the ultimate showdown. With the beginning of Spider’s Revenge, Jennifer Estep immediately sets the tone for the rest of the story. There was no gradually easing in to it with easy banter between characters. No, this time I was thrown smack-dab in the middle of a tension rife scene instantly elevating my blood pressure. I got a taste of the diabolical scheming of Mab Monroe and the singular drive of Gin Blanco for revenge.

One of the things I noticed was that the rekindling of information was kept to a minimum and was much more affective this time around. It didn’t hinder the pace of the actual story and only refreshed the memory. While first time readers might still enjoy the story I would say; why start with Spider’s Revenge? The major and some minor plotlines will have so much more punch to them if you start at the beginning!

The first half of the story I was going back and forth between familiar elements and a gradually increasing tension. I was intrigued by the suspense, got lots of acerbic witty dialogues between the group of characters and action filled scenes. It was something I’ve come to expect from Jennifer Estep. She has kept the Elemental Assassin series on a 4 or higher star rating for me and I was ready to be blown of my feet again in a roller coaster ride of plot, action and romance. Let me say that the first half of the book is only warming up the reader. It’s kind of going up the track in a roller coaster ride. Adrenaline starts to pump in your veins, butterflies grow to the size of bats fluttering in your stomach and you heart is slowly getting to beat a mile-a-minute for that moment you tip over. That’s how I experienced the first half as it prepares you for all the things that are to come in the second half and I got what I wanted; I was blown away!

I will look at Gin Blanco, aka The Spider, and see an assassin with heart. She can be lethal with the flick of a wrist and have no scruples about it. Still, over the course of this series some characters have niggled the way in to a small corner of her heart, making her care deeply about them. Ever since Spider’s Bite, Gin has been on a collision course where her deadly skills would threaten all she holds dear. In Spider’s Revenge the stakes are higher than ever before and it demands all of what Gin has to give.

Gin has a no-nonsense attitude, she has her own moral code and an inner core of steel. The fierceness of her love and loyalty is shown to the reader with the very select group of characters who love her and who have become her family. As always Finnegan ‘flirts-with-everything-that-has-a-skirt’ Lane brings humor to the story. Owen who was sexy from the first moment and surprised me in more than one way with his layered personality. The romance may not be the main course in this series but it struck a chord with me in the depth and beauty of it between Gin and Owen.

There are more supportive characters like sturdy, ‘I’ll have your back’ Sophia, who doesn’t say much but each expression or muffled sounds is quirky but meaningful. Her sister; ‘I’ll take care of you’ Jo-Jo is home, pure and simple. Bria is very much like Gin in love, loyalty and backbone. They all burst of the pages with their bold personalities and the dialogues between them speak of a very strong connection. Over the course of this series I got attached to this core group of characters. In Spider’s Revenge I got to become a part of their small family again and I didn’t want to see any of them hurt, or worse! In doing so it made fighting scenes filled with nail-biting tension. Because who were to say the good side wouldn’t lose a few in the end?

Gin was going to face her nemesis, Mab Monroe in the ultimate showdown which made Spider’s Revenge jam-packed with action and verbal taunting between the two powerful women. Mab Monroe was a worthy adversary and just a character I loved to hate. She reeked of power and evil but it made me root for every plan or fight gone right against her. She elevated the mystery in her scheming and raised the stakes in her raw power to kill. Even with all of the tension going on where lethal action ruled it was the love in all its forms and the family that gave it all meaning. I was tumbling from edge-of-my-seat moments to ones where I was gasping, crying or laughing. It is Jennifer Estep’s writing style that has the ability to let the reader absorb all that is going on and she made me live every moment with Gin & Co.

With each novel in the Elemental Assassin series I feel more invested. Even though major plotlines get resolved in Spider’s Revenge, believe me when I say that by the end you know there is room left for more. The kill or be killed fights and the increasing dangers coupled with the emotion rife interaction between the characters make Spider’s Revenge one whopper of an Urban-Fantasy no one should miss out on! I can’t wait to find out what the next chapter of Gin Blanco’s life entails!

4.5 stars

Quotes for you to sample:

1: In that moment, without a doubt, I knew that I loved owen—loved him with every bent piece and warped shard of my heart, black, brittle, and broken though they might be. The knowledge left me dizzy and breathless, and I had to grip the counter to keep from falling off my stool.

2: Genevieve Snow, Gin Blanco, the Spider; whatever I called myself, one thing remained the same—Fletcher Lane had fiercely loved me, and I’d loved the old man just as much in return. Enough to follow in his footsteps as an assassin. Enough to avenge his murder. And more than enough to take on this final impossible task of killing Mab Monroe.

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Nothing but Readi...: Estep, Jennifer; Spider's Revenge	54	81	Dec 28, 2012 03:30pm
Who loves Owen?	8	32	Sep 16, 2012 10:36am

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Spider’s Revenge (Elemental Assassin #5)

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