River Road (Sentinels of New Orleans, #2) by Suzanne Johnson

May 16, 2013 S.M. Blooding rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal

I did not read Royal Street. I started this series with River Road and I will say that I wasn’t left wondering about anything. Yes, I could tell that it was book 2, but I wasn’t left with a hole of information going, “What just happened here?!” I also wasn’t hit with overwhelming info dumps as the author attempted to bring me up to speed. We jumped right into the story. I was given just enough information to keep me from guessing, and it went swimmingly. (pun intended here…tehehe!)

The plot was v...more I did not read Royal Street. I started this series with River Road and I will say that I wasn’t left wondering about anything. Yes, I could tell that it was book 2, but I wasn’t left with a hole of information going, “What just happened here?!” I also wasn’t hit with overwhelming info dumps as the author attempted to bring me up to speed. We jumped right into the story. I was given just enough information to keep me from guessing, and it went swimmingly. (pun intended here…tehehe!)

The plot was very intriguing! I won’t say it was the most original, but the mythology that Ms. Johnson brought to the table made the story feel original. I picked up everything pretty well, I think. I mean, I didn’t have any questions as I was going through it. They histories and mythologies were well-thought out, I think! I was just left going, “Woooooooow! Cooool!” LOL!!

This was a paranormal mystery, and the clues were sprinkled throughout. I will say that I had a pretty good feeling of who it was…about 3/4 of the way through. That’s about 1/2 longer than it normally takes me. It wasn’t because Ms. Johnson left out information. It was because she masterfully wove the mystery together. It was brilliant!!

The love triangle…I just don’t understand guys. I don’t. I mean, Jean. Okay. He’s dead, and I could see his attraction to Drusilla. Oohhhhh, man! I felt it, too! For being dead, that man is HOT!!! But Alex? *shakes head* I didn’t get that one. I felt it. There was some heat coming off those pages, but I just didn’t get it. But what can you say about boys, really? *hopeless shrug* Jake? OMW!!! That one, I could definitely see and feel and hear and taste and smell! OMW! That one, with all the angst that obviously occurred in book 1, and all the tension. *smiling nod* OMW! Yeah! I totally understand that one!!

So! GREAT book!! It’s REALLY well written! The elements are all very strong, including the voice. The lovers triangle? My doubts on this one has nothing to do with Ms. Johnson’s writing. It has to do with the character, namely Alex who’s brain I think needs to be re-wired. When the characters come through that well, it’s because there’s exceptional writing! And in this book, there REALLY is!

Should you read this book? YES!!!!!!!!!!!!! OMW! YES!(less)

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Holly I love this, and had such fun reading your review! I have read Royal Street but not yet River Road. I got Royal St from my library last year as soon a...more I love this, and had such fun reading your review! I have read Royal Street but not yet River Road. I got Royal St from my library last year as soon as it was released and there's no way to put it other than that I fell head over heels in love. With Suzanne, with her gorgeous writing, with DJ (who I secretly want to be), with the city of New Orleans, with Jake AND Alex (oh yes both of them!), and, last but most certainly not least, WITH JEAN. OMG I WANT HIM .... UH, to meet him, I mean, to MEET him!!! (cough cough) I just wanted to comment and say that if you loved River Road this much, I hope you will go back and read Royal Street, if you haven't already. I think you will love it just as much, even though, as I understand from Suzanne, there is a bit of a different feel between the two books. Royal Street was written right after Hurricane Katrina and was, from what she says, sort of a cathartic experience for her, a way to deal with all the emotions after the storm (she is from NOLA). So I understand that the "feeling" of Book 2 is somewhat more lighthearted....but believe me, you'll find just as much humor and spunk and action in the first book, along with the hot guys and kick-ass DJ, and maybe a fuller explanation and background of the magic system and paranormal world Suzanne has created. Anyway, don't mean to go on and on, I just think Suzanne is AMAZING and I want folks to experience Royal Street and love it as much as I did, which I think you will. (I ALSO think that if you read Royal Street you may gain a different perspective on Alex and you just might change your mind about my favorite doggy!! ;) )

Oh, one more note, if you like learning more about an author's thought process for books and to find out what goes on behind the scenes, I highly recommend following Suzanne's blog, Preternatura. (I think if you Google it you'll find it easily, can't remember if it's blogspot.com or not.) Among many other things, she does these awesome posts where she gives annotated notes for concepts, places, terms, magical things, events, characters, etc from the books and you can learn SO MUCH about the world she's created.

Sorry for the crazy extended comment -- I just got tickled reading your review and thought you would enjoy the first book too ;-) I hope you do!(less)
04 giu. 19:09

Nov 13, 2012 Christal rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: female-lead, magic, urban-fantasy, arcs, fae, ghosts, mermaids, pirates, weres-and-shifters, witches-warlocks-and-mages

See this review and others like it at BadassBookReviews.com!

*** Be sure to visit BadassBookReviews.com on Monday, 19 Nov, for a guest post from author Suzanne Johnson and a chance to win a signed copy of River Road!***

I really enjoyed Suzanne Johnson’s debut novel Royal Street, but I think that River Road was even better. The characters were great and the plot was fast-paced and twisty. It kept me guessing until the end! This book left just enough threads loose that I am already anticipating the...more See this review and others like it at BadassBookReviews.com!

*** Be sure to visit BadassBookReviews.com on Monday, 19 Nov, for a guest post from author Suzanne Johnson and a chance to win a signed copy of River Road!***

I really enjoyed Suzanne Johnson’s debut novel Royal Street, but I think that River Road was even better. The characters were great and the plot was fast-paced and twisty. It kept me guessing until the end! This book left just enough threads loose that I am already anticipating the next installment in this series.
River Road picks up three years after Royal Street and Hurricane Katrina. Drusilla Jaco (DJ) has been assigned as the co-sentinel of New Orleans; she’s a Green Congress wizard which means she doesn’t have a lot of offensive magic. To appease the ruling wizards, Alex Warin is helping her out as an enforcer when things get rough.

DJ owes Jean Lafitte a favor and he has decided to call the marker in for (1) help solving a dispute between two mer clans and (2) a honest to goodness date. DJ has no problem jumping into the mer problem, but the date is another matter entirely. She knows Alex won’t be happy, but she’s actually looking forward to it somewhat. Jean has a much larger role in this book and his interactions with DJ were pretty hilarious. I think he is genuinely interested in courting her, but I just don’t see it working out. Oh, did I mention Jean is a ghost?

While investigating the mers’ pollution issue, two Green Congress wizards are found dead. DJ and Alex now have to add this mystery to their plates and figure out if it is connected to the mer issues. Alex’s cousin Jake has gone through training now that he is a loup-garou and he also becomes part of the investigation team. DJ’s dance card is starting to get full because Jake wants to pick up where they left off three years ago and start casually dating again. The biggest question is whether or not he has mastered the wolf within himself. If not, he may be putting DJ in danger. As if that wasn’t enough, Alex has started making suggestions that he wants to take his relationship with DJ out of the friends’ zone. Poor DJ is seriously confused!

I have to say that I am Team Alex after this book. I still like both Jake and Jean, but Alex has stolen my heart. He and DJ just fit together so well and I know he will always be there when she needs him. I’m not saying that Jake or Jean couldn’t make a last minute rally, but as of this book, I am hoping for a DJ and Alex pairing.

On top of the investigations and her romantic confusions, DJ also has to deal with the elves. They’ve learned about her elven staff and they want to know more about her. The wizards are protecting her from them as much as they can, but I smell a confrontation coming in the next book.

DJ has grown a lot from the first book, and she can take care of herself and deal with her own problems much easier now. She is level-headed and reacts well in a crisis, but still has her weaknesses. She has created a good support group for herself and has learned that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. She still makes some rash decisions, but I can respect that because she is trying to prove that she is capable of holding her own in the face of a crisis.

I loved all the new characters we were introduced to, especially the mers. This world is so richly described and its inhabitants uniquely detailed that it is easy to imagine yourself as a part of it. I loved the way this book ended; it set up the next installment perfectly. I have enjoyed both visits to Ms. Johnson’s New Orleans and I cannot wait for the next one!

Thank you to Ms. Suzanne Johnson and Tor Books for providing an ARC copy of this book!(less)

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Nov 03, 2012 Melliane rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

4,5/5

Mon avis en Français

My English review

Since the end of the first volume I was looking forward to get into this new novel. And what a pleasure to have Drusilla and all her friends here! Because yes, of course, everyone is there to turn upside down the life of our young heroine. Well I admit I was also conquered by all the passages in French. How can we not be? I always find it so funny to find sentences in French in English novels. Like that we can know if the author managed to translate perf...more 4,5/5

Mon avis en Français

My English review

Since the end of the first volume I was looking forward to get into this new novel. And what a pleasure to have Drusilla and all her friends here! Because yes, of course, everyone is there to turn upside down the life of our young heroine. Well I admit I was also conquered by all the passages in French. How can we not be? I always find it so funny to find sentences in French in English novels. Like that we can know if the author managed to translate perfectly what they mean or not. I must say that everything here was perfect, maybe some little mistakes but most of the dialogues or sentences were really good, I’m impressed. So now, what about the story?

Katrina is no longer here and DJ must learn to live in her new city. But everything has changed since she blames herself about what happened to Jake and she does her best to avoid him. But when Jean Laffite decides to enter in her life and asks for her help to deal with sirens before everything turns to disaster, she can’t refuse her assistance. The water of the Mississippi seems to be poisoned and our heroine will need to find the cause of this problem. Although the discovery of the reason in the middle of the novel was a total surprise to me, I must say that it was well found, this is the last thing I would have thought about. In addition to this case, two wizards are found dead and Alex and Drusilla investigate to find out what happened, although everything is much more complicated than expected. If only this was the only thing to worry about, it would be much simpler, but our young woman must also confront the men who entered her life without knowing what she wants to do. Between Alex who is difficult to understand, Jake who would like to remain master of himself and Jean Laffite who wants something our heroine, it is really difficult to choose.

Drusilla is equal to herself, determined to cause a lot of trouble to everyone when she wants something but she is also brave and loyal. I love this heroine as she is in constant evolution. She gets to know herself throughout the story and to understand what she is capable of. But it is still something a bit difficult for her. I am sure she is capable of much more, but only time will tell us that. I also appreciate a lot the three men in her life and it is true that I really can’t pick just one. Each has many qualities that we can only love, but it would be better if we could understand their real motivations. While waiting for this to happen, some new problems appear and open many future paths that seem to announce another great story. I really look forward to learn more.

It was another great novel with a fully developed storyline. I didn’t expect the culprit before the end of the story and it is true that I was quite surprised to not have considered him. A book and a series very pleasant to discover. And, aren’t you intrigued by the mere fact that there are plenty of male mermaids in this novel? Because I was and it was a great pleasure to discover this new culture. We can fell all the researches the author has made to make the story more real.
(less)

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Nov 13, 2012 Tori smexys_sidekick rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: arc, pirate-loving-in-here, read-in-2012, review-for-smexybooks, series, urban-fantasy

Originally posted at http://smexybooks.com/2012/11/review-...

Favorite Quote: “Until you stop dating the undead Pirate Of The Caribbean, you have no room to laugh.“

River Road begins three years after the events in Royal Street. Drusilla Jaco (DJ), our fledgling wizard, still acts as sentinel to New Orleans with her shapeshifting bodyguard/partner, Alex Warin. The Elders are still concerned with her novice classification so Alex will continue to ‘help’ DJ with her duties. They have come a long way...more

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Nov 12, 2012 Kimba (Caffeinated Book Reviewer) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

4.5 I am completely in love with the Sentinels of New Orleans series and author Suzanne Johnson. I devoured the first book Royal Street and then proceeded to beg Tor for an advanced copy of River Road. Johnson has created such an exciting urban fantasy. Delicious, well fleshed out characters, supernatural creatures and excellent world building have made this one of my favorite new series. The tale is set in the rich, eclectic city of New Orleans and I was delighted to visit again.

The tale picks...more 4.5 I am completely in love with the Sentinels of New Orleans series and author Suzanne Johnson. I devoured the first book Royal Street and then proceeded to beg Tor for an advanced copy of River Road. Johnson has created such an exciting urban fantasy. Delicious, well fleshed out characters, supernatural creatures and excellent world building have made this one of my favorite new series. The tale is set in the rich, eclectic city of New Orleans and I was delighted to visit again.

The tale picks up almost three years after hurricane Katrina, the backdrop for Royal Street. Drusilla (DJ) Jaco is the wizard sentinel in charge of containing and controlling the paranormal creatures that cross over from the Beyond. Not trusting her to handle things alone, she is partnered with shifter, Alex Warin. In this tale wizards are dying and a war is brewing between two clans of merpeople. Something is poisoning the waters of the Mississippi and DJ needs to solve it before the humans get involved. The tale that unfolds is action packed, full of suspense, mystery and a little romance. I was completely swept up in the tale and cannot wait for the next installment.

I love the characters Johnson has created and the new ones she introduces. DJ our kick-ass protagonist is complex, flawed and at times brilliant. We see both growth and setbacks for DJ in this novel. She stretches the limits of her abilities and facing some tough challenges. Alex is smexy, loyal, stubborn and I adore this shifter. We get to see more sides of this yummy, competent enforcer and I enjoyed every minute of it. The two of them are working well together now but the sexual tension is still there. Jake is back, and is dealing with his own demons. This does not stop him from being dark, sexy and dangerous. The sexy, debonair and very dead pirate Jean Lafitte is back. He is as charming as ever and makes his intentions very clear. His grasp or lack of the modern world and slang had me giggling. All three men have a thing for DJ, and we have a few romantic moments. Nothing is resolved in that department and I have firmly chosen my man.*swoons* I will let you decide which hunky guy you a rooting for. We meet merpeople and I loved DJ’s interactions with them, especially with the too cute Rene. They shared some hilarious scenes. I am really hoping he becomes a regular in the series. We also meet a few nymphs and that proved to be interesting. We meet an elf and the encounter was not pleasant and I am anxious for that storyline to develop further..

The world building is one of the things I love most about this series. Johnson has chosen the perfect backdrop to this series with New Orleans. Mix in supernatural creatures, a society of wizards to protect the humans, well fleshed out characters and you have the recipe for endless tales. We learn more about DJ’s background and the staff Gerry left her. While she struggles with the fact that everyone she loves she loses, we do see a lot of growth in her as a Wizard. I love the supernatural and magical elements the author mixes into the tale.The banter between DJ and the others had me giggling aloud. The mystery of the poisoned water and murders was fascinating, and I liked how Johnson revealed clues. Not since the Hollows have I been this enthralled with an urban fantasy. Johnson delivers this tale at a fantastic pace all while weaving different threads of the tale together and bringing them to a climatic ending. While each of these novels can be read as a standalone, some arc development would be lost and I recommend reading them in order.

In case you have not guessed, I loved River Road and highly recommend the Sentinels of New Orleans series to fans of urban fantasy, kick-ass characters and paranormal woo-woo. Elysian Fields the next book in this series will be available in August of 2013 and this reader cannot wait.

I want to thank Tor for providing this ARC in exchange for my unbiased review.
Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer (less)

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May 13, 2013 Samantha Martin rated it 5 of 5 stars

River Road throws the reader back into the world of DJ and her partner Alex. Hurricane Katrina is long gone, but the things that go bump in the night are just getting started. Since Katrina destroyed the barriers that kept the Otherworld and the regular separate, all kinds of creatures have been crossing over into our world. It is up to DJ and Alex to protect the humans and police the preternaturals. Our two heroes find that it is hard to keep the peace when wizards keep turning up dead, there i...more

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Apr 27, 2013 Marlene rated it 5 of 5 stars

Originally published at Reading Reality

Three years post-Katrina, Drusilla Jaco’s life as the Sentinel of New Orleans has just continued to get more and more complicated.

The Elder Council has finally decided to let down the borders to the Beyond, and the denizens of Old Orleans are finally free to cross into New Orleans at will. Jean Lafitte has taken up residence in the Hotel Monteleone. The modern-day Hotel Monteleone. He wants DJ to make good on the promises she unwisely made in the wake of Ka...more

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Feb 20, 2013 Jenn rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy

Three year have passed since the events in ROYAL STREET (which I talked about a little while ago) but some things remain the same. New Orleans hasn't fully recovered from Katrina, though things are better than they were. DJ and Alex are still co-sentinels, policing the prete (as in "preternatural") world. They've developed a good working relationship but their attraction simmers underneath it all, though they haven't acted on it *too much* because of their friendship and work relationship. Jean...more Three year have passed since the events in ROYAL STREET (which I talked about a little while ago) but some things remain the same. New Orleans hasn't fully recovered from Katrina, though things are better than they were. DJ and Alex are still co-sentinels, policing the prete (as in "preternatural") world. They've developed a good working relationship but their attraction simmers underneath it all, though they haven't acted on it *too much* because of their friendship and work relationship. Jean Lafitte, the dead pirate who likes to visit from the Beyond, is still very interested in DJ and she often finds herself drawn to him despite her better judgment. Jake, Alex's cousin who went loup garou in the last book, is also still around but he and DJ haven't seen each other since the events in ROYAL STREET.

Something that has changed: the scope of the series. Suzanne Johnson really expands DJ's world with RIVER ROAD, as we venture further afield from New Orleans and meet new species of pretes: merpeople and nymphs! It's an exciting development because we're seeing more of the physical world and because we're seeing DJ grow as a person and a sentinel. In ROYAL STREET, she had a lot to adjust to but now, in RIVER ROAD, she's a bit more confident, even when the problem goes from being just a dispute between two families of merpeople to something with a greater scope. DJ and Alex also have to solve the murder of two Green Congress wizards that are discovered early on in their work with the merpeople, so the investigative and problem-solving aspects of the book are on full display.

Of course, DJ also has to grapple with the three men in her life. Jake is no longer human so dating him comes with a new set of rules, Jean Lafitte is interested and has some redeeming qualities, to DJ's dismay, and Alex is, well, Alex. He's attractive and capable and off-limits, which makes some of his behaviour confusing. It just breaks my heart, her being desired by these three interesting characters. ;)

Also in play in RIVER ROAD is DJ's elven heritage. She learned about it in ROYAL STREET and she's still learning how to use her abilities, particularly the wooden staff she's named Charlie. There are some very interesting developments, including a character who enters later in the book that will remain nameless in this post (and of whom I am very suspicious). I hope this is something that Suzanne Johnson will explore in future books in the series because I'm very curious about elves and the Elven Synod.

RIVER ROAD is a strong sequel to ROYAL STREET sure to please existing fans and win new ones. Suzanne Johnson takes us on quite an adventure and has me eagerly anticipating ELYSIAN FIELDS, due out in August.

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Feb 11, 2013 Nancy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal, fantasy

Wizard Sentinel of New Orleans Druscilla Jaco is called to duty when the dead bodies of two men are found in the swamps. She suspects their deaths are the result of preternatural beings, or pretes, and it’s her job to investigate. She enlists Alex, her partner in law enforcement and a shifter, along with the undead pirate Jean LaFitte, and her werewolf suitor, Jake. Fending off their advances is more problematic than determining who killed the victims and who is poisoning the waters around New O...more

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Feb 09, 2013 Alisa Hedden rated it 4 of 5 stars

Looks like Sookie Stackhouse and Anita Blake have a new neighbor, by the name of Drusilla Jaco. Taking place in New Orleans (what is it about warm climates producing some of the best female authors?), after Hurricane Katrina has torn down the walls between our world and Beyond. We have a part elven (no, they don’t seem to be as nice as Legolas) wizard sentinel trying to help keep normal humans safe from incursions from living ghosts, merpeople, nymphs and the river Styx.
This story is an enjoya...more

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Jan 24, 2013 Lucy rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy, louisiana, library-book

I mostly like this book and the heroine, Drusilla Jaco aka D.J. I certainly like how the author depicts the New Orleans that is still coming to terms with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, even three years later. And this is without the human population knowing anything about the preternatural beings in their midst.
Wizard D.J. is trying to be sentinel of New Orleans, which certainly has more than its fair share of these preternatural beings, including the historical dead, of whom pirate Jean L...more

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Dec 29, 2012 Joshua Burns rated it 4 of 5 stars

As seen on Rabidreads.ca:

River Road, with a bit of effort, merges local Louisiana flavor and paranormal happs, complete with a no way you saw that coming whodunnit and numerous "dates" between Drusilla, a wizard, and the important men in her life: an undead pirate, Jean, and Jake, a loup-garou, and her shapeshifter partner, Alex.

At the level of description there is much to gush about. The sentences are often deserving of listening to outside of their context. The opening line has a great compari...more

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Nov 27, 2012 Stephanie rated it 5 of 5 stars

ORIGINAL POST: http://fangswandsandfairydust.blogspo...

RIVER ROAD
Sentinels of New Orleans, Book 2
by Suzanne Johnson

Genre: Urban Fantasy
Tor Books November 13, 2012

ISBN: 978-0765327802
ASIN: B00842H5VI

Hard Cover and E-Book Formats, 336 pages
Word Count: approx. 92,000
Cover Artist: Cliff Nielsen

I so enjoy Suzanne's writing. I feel she has really gotten into DJ/Drusilla's head and allowed the character to pour onto the page. The writing is mature with smart, genuine dialogue and relationships. It isn'...more

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Nov 20, 2012 Diayll rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: blog-tour

Originally Reviewed At: Mother/Gamer/Writer
Rating: 5 out of 5 Controllers
Review Source: Blog Tour
Reviewer: Heather

River Road is the second book in the Sentinels of New Orleans series by the very talented Suzanne Johnson. Please, if you have not read the first in her series Royal Street do so now. If you love fantasy and mystery then you shall not be disappointed at all.

River Road picks up with Drusilla Draco (DJ), and the rest of her gang years after the Katrina aftermath we saw in Royal Street...more

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Jun 15, 2013 Kathy Martin rated it 4 of 5 stars

Suzanne Johnson adds to the ambiance of New Orleans--already having a touch of the paranormal--by adding wizards, the historical dead, and other preternatural creatures. Drusilla Jaco--better known as DJ--is the sentinel in charge of keeping control of all the new pretes. Her partner is shapeshifter Alex Warin who provides the muscles (and violence) that aren't part of the repertoire of Green Congress wizards like DJ.

Their cases this time have to do with feuding mer people, dead wizards, and pol...more Suzanne Johnson adds to the ambiance of New Orleans--already having a touch of the paranormal--by adding wizards, the historical dead, and other preternatural creatures. Drusilla Jaco--better known as DJ--is the sentinel in charge of keeping control of all the new pretes. Her partner is shapeshifter Alex Warin who provides the muscles (and violence) that aren't part of the repertoire of Green Congress wizards like DJ.

Their cases this time have to do with feuding mer people, dead wizards, and polluted river water. More and more preternaturals are finding a home in New Orleans and the surrounding area since the magical barriers fell with the flooding that Katrina brought. Now two clans of mer need DJ to settle where each can live (and keep them from killing each other.) She and Alex are also called in to determine if the dead body found nearby is human or supernatural. If it's human, the case will be turned over to the human police. If is is supernatural, the crime lands on Alex and DJ. They discover that the mutilated corpse belonged to a wizard who had put magic aside and was teaching biology at Tulane. His widow raises questions for DJ because, as an empath, she ought to be able to read her emotions but she can't. The final thread has to do with polluted river water that is making the mer sick and needs to be corrected before it starts involving humans.

Beyond the mystery, a lot of the story deals with DJ's relationships to a number of men in her life. She has conflicted feelings about her partner Alex. They have decided to be friends without benefits but she is getting different messages from Alex now. Then there is Jake, Alex's cousin, who has turned into a loup-garou. There was a possibility of a romance before that happened but now they need to decide if they can make the relationship go given that loup-garou have a tendency to lose control and go on killing sprees. Last on DJ's dance card is Jean Lafitte who is one of the historic dead. I like the way DJ is torn between relationships with each of them for different reasons and how each one fits into her life.

The world building in this story is well-done and the setting is perfect for a paranormal. DJ is not a typical urban fantasy kick-ass heroine but she has her own strengths and talents and is a great character. All of her men are also hot in their own varied ways. I look forward to reading more adventures in DJ's future.

This book is the sequel to Royal Street but stands alone well. A third book in this series--Elysian Fields--will be released on August 13.(less)

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Dec 17, 2012 Lydia Presley rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, fiction, chick-stuff, urban-fantasy

River Road, the follow up to Suzanne Johnson's, Royal Street, is a steamy, fun-filled urban fantasy set in a post-Katrina New Orleans. Folks, this book has it all for mindless, laugh-out-loud, pop-culture reference fun.

DJ is a Green Warden - she has a limited amount of magic at her disposal, but as revealed in Royal Street... she is also part-elf and that's about to bite her in the butt. She has three men vying for her attention, one of whom is undead, and now she's got a new problem on her hand...more

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Oct 28, 2012 Miki rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review was first published on my blog Lecture Toute une Aventure Where you can find a review of this book in French too/ Pour un avis en français rendez-vous sur mon blog!

Fabulous! Above all my expectations; I’m used to Suzanne‘s writing style and so far she never disappointed me so I couldn’t wait to read this book. However book 1 “Royal Street” was really well written with a great story and I though book 2 was going to be playing in the same league: a really good book. Big Mistake, ”Riv...more This review was first published on my blog Lecture Toute une Aventure Where you can find a review of this book in French too/ Pour un avis en français rendez-vous sur mon blog!

Fabulous! Above all my expectations; I’m used to Suzanne‘s writing style and so far she never disappointed me so I couldn’t wait to read this book. However book 1 “Royal Street” was really well written with a great story and I though book 2 was going to be playing in the same league: a really good book. Big Mistake, ”River Road” is even better a “must have” for any urban fantasy fan.

This story takes place 3 years after the events of “Royal Street”, DJ is still the Sentinel of New Orleans with Alex as a partner since the elders don’t trust her enough to handle the job yet. Their relationship has calmed down a bit and now they do trust each other and don’t regret their assignment.

We discover a more responsible DJ, not as impulsive as before. She has learned from her mistakes, or is sometimes still trying, and does her best. Still wound by the lost of Gerry, DJ is still afraid to loose someone else or to see someone dear to her being hurt or leaving her. It’s the reason she tries her best to stay professional with Alex and when she knows she is doing something that could endanger his position she prefers to let him know afterwards.
She is also more attentive to the “reality” around her and can put the elders and their system in question, discreetly of course – Who wouldn’t want to hit Hoffman?-. She is using her own talents and gifts when it’s needed; she has accepted her difference and heritage. She still has her pet – or little master ^^- Sebastian, so funny little thing and I understand her feeling when he makes his stink eyes…mine acts more friendly but also part Siamese and I know those eyes too well *brrr*
Now, as for her heart, it’s more complicated. No matter how much she denies it she is attracted by Alex, she thinks she has that in control until he decides to act more no matter the competition. Because the competition is there first there is Jake, after being mad at her and disappearing for 3 years, he still wants her and he doesn’t fear to tell her, show her and ask for a date. . Then there is Jean Lafitte, immortal historical undead, cunning and sexy, who flirts with her since day one. Not sure if he is that sincere but he doesn’t leave her indifferent. For a girl who was mostly alone, it’s a bit too much at the same time^^.

I must admit I really enjoy Jean Lafitte. He is fun, intelligent and he knows what he wants –perhaps not concerning DJ- his honour is important and he is really determined. You should not underestimate him. I love it’s relation with our favourite wizard even if Alex is also really interesting with her.
In this book, Alex tries to make his feeling known and with someone as DJ that’s not an easy task. He goes all alpha and protective on her. Possessive even, when it comes to Jake and Jean, but he is able to see past that for the good of the investigation and DJ’s safety. He was so fun this time,I can’t tell you why but you could be laughing to tears at some passage of this book^^.

The story in itself is excellent; we have action, suspense and humour all perfectly dosed with a touch of romance to keep our heart beating and a small dose of drama to keep us on toes. The investigation here was original and captivating. Suzanne managed to surprise me with several twists and I wasn’t expecting the ending at all. (Though I have high suspicions about Rand…) The humour was welcome and didn’t clash with the seriousness of the investigation at all…I laughed so much with this book (Sebastian high on magic , the family dinner so dreaded)that in the end I was nearly crying all the time from laughing or emotion ( some descriptions of “post Katrina” are emotionally charged, DJ’s thought on Gerry and Jake) it’s so well written that you can’t stay unmoved.

Added bonus, we got to meet new creatures: mermen (not new you if you have read “Chenoire”, so ^^ jump on it while it’s still available), Rene is really a interesting character and I hope we will see more of him. Nymphs (you will love their “human” job) and finally we met one elf, a proclaimed one, an elder really important and not friendly at all. So we can expect a lot of adventure and action in the future. (Jean was so protective and loyal hum ^^ he is winning good points^^)

I really enjoyed the description of the wetlands area and the old New Orleans, we can feel the love Suzanne Johnson has for the region and it’s communicative, it really made me want to learn more about it. She is slowly becoming a major author of the urban fantasy with this book.

To recommend wholeheartedly to all fan of urban fantasy and to everyone who wants a really good book to enjoy. So if you haven’t started the series yet don’t hesitate. You can find my review of book 1 here.
Don’t forget that if you preorder/order this book “ River Road” a small percentage will go to a funds to help the region suffering from oil pollution, a good deed we can do even as simple human being. A great gift for Christmas or New Year eve (it’s on my list anyway^^ I Want the Us and Uk edition)
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Dec 12, 2012 Leah (The Pretty Good Gatsby) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, america, fantasy, contemporary, paranormal, urban-fantasy

http://theprettygoodgatsby.wordpress....

People jog at dawn for a reason. If they wait, their brains will wake up and convince them there are things they'd rather do. Like have oral surgery.

The first book in the series, Royal Street was something I picked up on a whim. I'm a total sucker for pretty covers and, although I'm not a big fan of the genre, paranormal/urban fantasy tends to have SUPER SHINY OH-SO-PRETTY covers.

To my complete surprise, I loved it. Much to my delight I didn't have to wait...more

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Apr 04, 2013 Sandra rated it 4 of 5 stars

I am really enjoy this series. To me, a good PNR/UF has some mystery which needs to be solved, interesting and entertainng characters and the potential for some great romance and this series delivers all that. I love Jean - he is so entertaining and the introduction of the mer people & nymphs gave us some great characters - I loved Rene, and given his unique bond with DJ I hope to see more of him in future books. As per usual our heroine DJ has a plethora of men as potential romantic partner...more I am really enjoy this series. To me, a good PNR/UF has some mystery which needs to be solved, interesting and entertainng characters and the potential for some great romance and this series delivers all that. I love Jean - he is so entertaining and the introduction of the mer people & nymphs gave us some great characters - I loved Rene, and given his unique bond with DJ I hope to see more of him in future books. As per usual our heroine DJ has a plethora of men as potential romantic partners and my only concern is that is seems to be that my least favourite is the main contender. There is Jean the undead (ghost) pirate, Jake the previously normal now werewolf ex-marine and Alex DJ's shifter FBI enforcer partner. I adore Jean, he is so sexy and charming and although DJ questions his motives I think he is geuniunely interested in her and he is certainly protective enough. I really liked Jake in Royal Street (the first in this series) and was hoping DJ would pick him when the whole werewolf issue and learning control threw a wrench into things and while I would still be happy with Jake & DJ as a couple I am thinking that probably isn't going to happen now given his control issues. Unfortunately I get the impression that in the long run she will end up with Alex which is a damn shame as he is kind of a jerk. DJ seems to have real feelings for him which they agree not to act on as the work together and she keeps talking about what a great guy he but we never actually see Alex being that decent. In the first book he was an arrogant, threatening jerk when they met, then pursued her in competition with his cousin Jake, yet as soon as Jake is put of the picture they decide to be friends without benefits which he has no problem with for THREE years and is even dating the hot bartender. Yet as soon as Jean & Jake are back in the picture he is throwing innuendo's about and kissing DJ (while still dating Leyla). While I believe Alex cares about DJ as a partner his romantic interest seems to be more of a one upmanship game with Jake who is genuinely interested in DJ for her self.
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Dec 12, 2012 Cherie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Mix a heap of fantasy, a little bit of mythology, a good dose of mystery, a splash of romance and a lot of humor and you end up with Suzanne Johnson's River Road. This was a thoroughly enjoyable mix of elements that had me entertained throughout and left me guessing until the end.

Second in the Sentinals of New Orleans series, River Road is set 3 years after the events of the first book, Royal Street. Fans returning to the series will find enough references to the first book to refresh your mem...more Mix a heap of fantasy, a little bit of mythology, a good dose of mystery, a splash of romance and a lot of humor and you end up with Suzanne Johnson's River Road. This was a thoroughly enjoyable mix of elements that had me entertained throughout and left me guessing until the end.

Second in the Sentinals of New Orleans series, River Road is set 3 years after the events of the first book, Royal Street. Fans returning to the series will find enough references to the first book to refresh your memory without feeling like you're reading a rehashing of it. Newcomers to the series need not worry, either. The references are enough to fill in the gaps so you don't feel lost but this story can stand on it's own and you won't feel like you're missing out. Although, after reading River Road, I bet you'll want to search out a copy of Royal Street next!

The main part of the story revolves around 2 issues: a dispute between two rival clans of mer-people and the murder of local wizards. The main character, DJ (or Drusilla) is a Sentinal tasked with solving the dispute and finding the murderer. She is joined by her partner, Alex, in the investigations. The mystery here is good. It kept me guessing until the end of the book. I did figure it out before all was revealed but I really felt that I was discovering the clues right along with DJ. There are some minor twists that kept the plot fresh and made it interesting.

The world-building is where this book really shines. It's a great mix of supernatural (The Beyond, for example), and modern-day post-Katrina New Orleans. It is clear that the author has a real love for and knowledge of the area. I've personally never been, but I felt like I was visiting while reading. Her descriptions - from the landscape to the smells to the food and music - really evoke a sense that you are right there with the characters. New Orleans as a city is steeped in supernatural myth and legend so it is really the perfect backdrop for Urban Fantasy.

The species introduced and mentioned are also interesting. We meet or hear about mer-people, nyphms, undead pirates, shape-shifters, weres and elves among other things. Enough information is given through the story and the dialogue that the reader becomes familiar with them without feeling like you're reading a textbook about mythology. We find out just enough for things to make sense without getting a huge info-dump.

There is also some romance for all you PNR fans out there. There are no graphic sex scenes - in fact, there are no sex scenes. Instead, there is a genuine progression of relationship between DJ and her three suitors. The undead pirate, Jean Lafitte, is bad news but is attracted to DJ and convinces her to go out on a date with him. Jake is an old flame that wants to rekindle things but he's a shape-shifter and his lack of control is dangerous. Alex is her partner and what started as a love/hate relationship with lots of attraction is starting to morph into something more. The romance is not a part of the main plotline. Instead it weaves it's way in an out of the character's interactions in a way that feels much more natural than in most PNR. It was refreshing to read a book where the romance is clean and a subplot rather than in the forefront.

Another strength was the character interaction. The dialogue is well-written and felt real. There were quite a few places where I found myself chuckling.

Overall, I very much enjoyed this one and am looking forward to seeing where the series leads. The series so far reminds me a lot in style to the Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs or the Anita Blake series by Laurel K. Hamilton (without all the graphic sex). Fans of those series as well as fans of Urban Fantasy and Supernatural in general should definitely pick this one up and give it a try.(less)

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Dec 01, 2012 Jeffrey rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-in-2012, supernatural, urban-fantasy

Suzanne Johnson continues to heat up the action in River Road, her second entry in her urban fantasy series set in Post Hurricane New Orleans. Johnson has a deft touch with dialogue and has set up an interesting urban fantasy world centered in both modern day New Orleans, and its past.

Drusilla Jaco is a Green Congress wizard who is the sentinel for the New Orleans area. Along with her partner Alex Warin, a shapeshifter, she patrols New Orleans and protects it from magical issues.

DJ has attract...more Suzanne Johnson continues to heat up the action in River Road, her second entry in her urban fantasy series set in Post Hurricane New Orleans. Johnson has a deft touch with dialogue and has set up an interesting urban fantasy world centered in both modern day New Orleans, and its past.

Drusilla Jaco is a Green Congress wizard who is the sentinel for the New Orleans area. Along with her partner Alex Warin, a shapeshifter, she patrols New Orleans and protects it from magical issues.

DJ has attracted the amorous attention of Jean LaFitte, the legendary pirate, an undead pretenatural who is doing business in both present day New Orleans and the Beyond, the magical universe inhabited by otherworldly creatures and the undead. LaFitte's friend and business partner is Robert Delachaise, a merman, who is having a territorial dispute with another merman clan, headed by Denis Villere. While meeting with both to mediate a truce, DJ and Alex discover a dead wizard, who has been ritually slain and learn of the death of another wizard. In addition, the merman inform DJ that the water of the area has been fouled with some chemical that is making merpeople ill. DJ and Alex must investigate the deaths and the water issue.

DJ enlists her friend and fellow wizard Tish to help with the magic on the water and gets some help from a nymph to deal with the merman and the poison in the water. The cavorting nymph has her own magic and the merman and nymph supply a lot of the plot.

But the novel is not just about murder and magic. Johnson keeps the plot bopping along by fully developing DJ and her life outside of her magic. DJ's life is complicated by the attention of the men in the novel. She must not only deal with LaFitte's attention on a date, but goes out on a date with Alex Warin's cousin Jake, a powerful werewolf with control issues, and even visits Alex's family as Alex's pretend girlfriend. Alex and DJ are also making sparks, which bothers DJ because he is her partner and she does not want to mess up their "friendship" and working relationship. Alex may have other ideas about that.

DJ also must deal with the other Sentinels, who look down on her because her power is more ritual magic and the issue of the Elves who want to confront DJ about a magic staff she wields.

DJ risks a lot when she comes up with a crafty solution to figuring out the water problem, but the murderer of the wizards claims another victim. DJ and Alex must race to figure out who is killing the wizards before its too late for another of DJ's friends.

Suzanne Johnson's urban fantasy return to New Orleans is another worthwhile entry in this genre. She is an author to watch.

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May 30, 2013 Latoya rated it 4 of 5 stars

I can't hate on a girl with options and DJ has three gorgeous men vying for her heart. Alex is the hot shape-shifter and her co-sentinel that has feeling for her but they've agreed to remain professional. Jake, Alex's cousin and a loup garou in the beginning made no attempts to hide his interest in DJ but after the change has serious issues maintaining control over his wolf. The historical undead pirate Jean Lafitte is as open about his wanting her and will blur the lines between mixing business...more I can't hate on a girl with options and DJ has three gorgeous men vying for her heart. Alex is the hot shape-shifter and her co-sentinel that has feeling for her but they've agreed to remain professional. Jake, Alex's cousin and a loup garou in the beginning made no attempts to hide his interest in DJ but after the change has serious issues maintaining control over his wolf. The historical undead pirate Jean Lafitte is as open about his wanting her and will blur the lines between mixing business with pleasure, if it gets him closer to her. Each guy oozes with masculine charm and mystery. DJ in all her attempts to keep it together becomes flustered and flabbergasted by the amount of attention she’s getting lately but she doesn't have time to sort out how she feels as her job brings her the task of stopping a possible mermen war, a strange water contamination issue and a perplexing murder scene. She has her hands full attempting to connect the dots and wondering if somehow these events are related somehow. As she races to fix the mess that's being made in the Louisiana waters, DJ starts pondering the complexities of her heart and which guy she truly desires. Can she manage sentinel politics alongside her seemingly blooming social life?

This story begins three years after Hurricane Katrina and the death of DJ's mentor and father, Gerry. She still hasn't figured out how to use the staff with her wizard abiities without creating chaos. However, DJ hopes to prove to the Elders that she is capable of working as sentinel on her own without Alex and a little pay raise wouldn't hurt either. I liked the flow of this story and the details Johnson gives of a Louisiana recovering from devastation along with the spirit of the community. The characters are fantastic, if given the choice, I wouldn't be able to pick between Alex, Jake or Jean....well I'm leaning more towards Alex but DJ's interactions with each guy is different yet engaging. LOVE them! DJ makes for an interesting heroine; she has enough vulnerability in combination with tenacity and sheer will to succeed. Overall, the world that the author has created is believable, realistic and an entertaining read...so looking forward to book three. (less)

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May 29, 2013 Julie (Manga Maniac Cafe) rated it 4 of 5 stars

4.5 stars

Fun read! Can hardly wait for the next one

full review -

I enjoyed Royal Street, the first book in Suzanne Johnson’s Sententials of New Orleans, with a few reservations. I was disappointed with the lack of romance, and wondered why DJ constantly made such bad decisions. The lack of common sense drove me bonkers. I’m happy to report that River Road is a stronger book overall, and even when DJ made some not so wise choices, she really didn’t have any choice in the matter. Keeping two warrin...more 4.5 stars

Fun read! Can hardly wait for the next one

full review -

I enjoyed Royal Street, the first book in Suzanne Johnson’s Sententials of New Orleans, with a few reservations. I was disappointed with the lack of romance, and wondered why DJ constantly made such bad decisions. The lack of common sense drove me bonkers. I’m happy to report that River Road is a stronger book overall, and even when DJ made some not so wise choices, she really didn’t have any choice in the matter. Keeping two warring clans of merfolk from killing each other, and getting normal humans caught in the crossfire, kept her busy and kept her putting herself on the line. It’s hard to argue about doing the smart thing when the smart thing is going to cost people their lives.

DJ and Alex are both working as sententials now, and the story picks up three years after the events of Royal Street. DJ is more comfortable in her own skin, with her powers and her elvin wand. She complains about the same things we all do; being overworked, working for a bunch of guys who expect results no matter what, not getting that raise she thinks she deserves. Her relationship with Alex has settled down and they have decided that they make great friends. When the merpeople start feuding, Dj and Alex have to put an end to their territorial disputes, which are complicated by Jean Laffitte. He’s buddies with two of the mer, Rene and Robert, and he has a vested interest in seeing a treaty between the clans. Rene and Jean have many shady business dealings, the less DJ knows about, the happier she is.

I enjoyed all of the characters this time around. They all make DJ’s life a trial. The merpeople hate wizards because of how they were treated after a large group of paranormals attempted to set up shop in the mundane world years ago. They are suspicious of her motives and treat her like crap, to be frank. I really felt bad for DJ; she is trying so hard to come to a fair solution to their dispute, and they just keep on giving her grief! Even her own employers don’t give her any respect, and she is constantly at odds with the Elders because of her methods, which are basically act now and ask for permission later. They are putting a huge amount of pressure on her to get the situation fixed, and when wizards start turning up dead, they are even more unrelenting that she fix it. Fix it now! I felt that the only person to give her any credit was Jean. He turned out to be a fun, well-rounded character, and I enjoyed the courtship between them. I can’t see them setting up house together, but there’s a lot of fun chemistry between DJ and her immortal pirate.

River Road kept my interest from beginning to end. The mystery was compelling, and DJ’s methods were entertaining as she raced against the clock to put a stop to the war brewing between the merpeople. I am looking forward to DJ’s next adventure, Elysian Fields, in August.

Grade: B+(less)

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Jan 07, 2013 Aurian Booklover rated it 5 of 5 stars

DJ is still getting used to her new role as co-sentinel of New Orleans, together with Alex Warin, her new partner and former Enforcer. Alex loves doing everything by the book, while DJ hates writing reports for the Council of Elders. Hurricane Katrina broke the boundaries between the otherworld, and this one, and new species keep coming through the barrier. It is DJ’s job to keep them in check, make sure they blend in with the humans who still do not suspect anything. It is quite normal for Loui...more

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Feb 18, 2013 Owlcat Mountain added it

I don't use star ratings, so please read the review!

(Description nicked from B&N.com.)

“Hurricane Katrina is long gone, but the preternatural storm rages on in New Orleans. New species from the Beyond moved into Louisiana after the hurricane destroyed the borders between worlds, and it falls to wizard sentinel Drusilla Jaco and her partner, Alex Warin, to keep the preternaturals peaceful and the humans unaware. But a war is brewing between two clans of Cajun merpeople in Plaquemines Parish, a...more I don't use star ratings, so please read the review!

(Description nicked from B&N.com.)

“Hurricane Katrina is long gone, but the preternatural storm rages on in New Orleans. New species from the Beyond moved into Louisiana after the hurricane destroyed the borders between worlds, and it falls to wizard sentinel Drusilla Jaco and her partner, Alex Warin, to keep the preternaturals peaceful and the humans unaware. But a war is brewing between two clans of Cajun merpeople in Plaquemines Parish, and down in the swamp, DJ learns, there’s more stirring than angry mermen and the threat of a were-gator.

Wizards are dying, and someone—or something—from the Beyond is poisoning the waters of the mighty Mississippi, threatening the humans who live and work along the river. DJ and Alex must figure out what unearthly source is contaminating the water and who—or what—is killing the wizards. Is it a malcontented merman, the naughty nymph, or some other critter altogether? After all, DJ’s undead suitor, the pirate Jean Lafitte, knows his way around a body or two.”

I remember reading the first book in this series and liking it, and yet I also thought that it had a little too much going on. The novel tackled Hurricane Katrina, set up a magical system and its politics, defined the kinds of magical creatures that live there, and juggled three possible relationships for the main character. While it all meshed together fairly well, it contributed to the book feeling much like the complicated set-up to a longer tale.

This newest one, however, is more settled in tone. There is certainly enough action and intrigue to keep readers interested, but there isn’t the overwhelming sense that you have to take in all kinds of information and background just to keep up. In River Road, Drusilla has been a sentinel for a little while and is portrayed as more sure of herself, although echoes of uncertainly do haunt her occasionally. And although her relationships haven’t changed—she still has three men interested in her—they too feel less chaotic. I actually approve of skipping ahead in time the way Johnson did, because she’s able to write her characters with a greater degree of maturity and familiarity with each other and their jobs.

I enjoyed the murder mystery in this story more than I did the kidnapping of Drusilla’s mentor in the last book. This time around, it’s more straightforward: there are dead bodies, and the characters have to figure out who the killer is, without dealing with too much magical catastrophe at the same time. Woven though this part of the story are some intriguing hints about a newly arrived character who is likely more than he seems. It looks like the author is setting up a longer story arc now that she’s gotten her setting established.

This novel brings in some new supernatural races: the elves, the nymphs, and the mermen. If you’ve ever wondered what a Cajun merman would be like, wonder no more. It’s nice that Johnson is moving beyond the all-too-common werewolves and vampires, and it’s also nice to see her using mermen instead of the stereotypical mermaids. Believe me, the nymphs fill that role quite well.

I also liked that Drusilla is strong enough and smart enough to not constantly need rescuing, although she does get in over her head sometimes. Even so, she doesn’t need to always be bailed out of difficulties, she packs some fairly powerful magic without turning into an all-powerful juggernaut, and she’s often seen doing research to get her spells correct instead of just winging it and hoping for the best. I find that I like her a lot.

I’m pleased to see that Johnson has made some great strides in her writing. River Road is a good read, eschewing most of the common urban fantasy elements to bring in the flavor of New Orleans in some very unique ways. I’m getting more and more fond of the South as a fantasy setting!

This review originally appeared on Owlcat Mountain on January 17, 2013.(less)

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Feb 10, 2013 Dana rated it 4 of 5 stars

Apparantly this is the second book in a series. I have not read the first one - I think I may have to do so. Set in post-Katrina New Orleans, where the storm has destroyed the border separating the Beyond, thus allowing preternatural creatures to cross easily into New Orleans and surrounding areas. DJ, a wizard with elven heritage, is tasked with stopping a war between two tribes of mer-people in the Mississippi river. Along with the historically undead pirate Jean Lafitte, her handsome shape sh...more

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Feb 04, 2013 She-Wolf Reads rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: she-wolf-s-favorites

**A review copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**

RIVER ROAD has to be one of the best books I read in 2012. I read it as 2012 was coming to a close and it ended the reading year with a bang for me. Picking up three years after the first book in the series, ROYAL STREET, Johnson continues to bring us a fantastic heroine charged with keeping the supernatural world in line while dealing with romantic confusion and an unwieldy magical staff.

RIVER ROAD, how...more

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Jun 15, 2013 Amanda added it · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy, wizards, ghosts, beware-of-the-love-triangle, abandoned-books, the-series-died-here

Couldn't get into this at all an began skimming early on.

The writing is good and the main storyline is fairly interesting, but the author spends far too much time having DJ obsess over the various love interests for my tastes. It is so boring reading along with DJ's repetitive thoughts over the guys dimples, eyes, chests and arses.

Nowadays if a preternatural being-based book has a female lead, then the authors automatically assume we all want to read about their love lives, and further assume t...more

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Dec 17, 2012 Chris rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This was similar to the first novel, but disappointingly, the stakes were lower. The other novel was about saving an entire city and the time frame was centered around Hurricane Katrina. This book was more of a detective story centered around poisoned river water and a couple of murders. The mermen were new characters and that was interesting, but I guess I was looking for a bit more of a payoff. Nothing really wrong with it, but looking for something more like before. Also three years have pass...more

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Jan 21, 2013 Yolanda Sfetsos rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy

I was looking forward to getting stuck into this book, and as soon as I started... I was hooked! Also, I love the cover. It's so pretty. Love all that green because it really goes with the story. :)

Three years have passed since Katrina, and New Orleans has changed a lot. The borders between New Orleans and the Beyond have been destroyed so there are plenty of problems for Drusilla Jaco (DJ) to deal with. She's still working alongside her partner Alex, but their relationship is as confusing as ev...more

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River Road (Sentinels of New Orleans #2)

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