Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between (Rhiannon's Law, #1) by J.A. Saare

Feb 05, 2011 Maja rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, paranormal-romance, huge-disappointment, i-see-dead-people, cliffhanger-ending

First of all, please allow me to get this off my chest: Why on earth would a self-respecting vampire want to be called Disco?! It’s just ridiculous. I guess the author wanted to be original and Disco is original, that’s for sure, as in: no-one-would-ever-be-crazy-enough-to-do-it.

I have become like the ancient Fae in Fever: I read so much UF books, the only thing I judge them by is whether they amuse me or not. This particular book only mildly amused me. It was a good story, but very sloppy writ...more

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Dec 12, 2010 Michelle, the Bookshelf Stalker rated it 5 of 5 stars

I really want people to read the books I like. Since I can not force you to sit down and read the book (I am a book nerd, and yes I admit it), I have to write a review and convince you that the book is worth your time, money and the other books that get put on the back burner while reading this one. The problem is I am not very good at writing reviews. Not everything that is in my head comes out on the computer screen. Nevertheless, here it goes...

The story:

Rhiannon Murphy, is a kick ass, take n...more I really want people to read the books I like. Since I can not force you to sit down and read the book (I am a book nerd, and yes I admit it), I have to write a review and convince you that the book is worth your time, money and the other books that get put on the back burner while reading this one. The problem is I am not very good at writing reviews. Not everything that is in my head comes out on the computer screen. Nevertheless, here it goes...

The story:

Rhiannon Murphy, is a kick ass, take no prisoner chick that has an exterior that makes even vampires stand up and notice. In reality, her inner self is full of pain, and vulnerability. With an abusive past, and some supernatural skills she never wanted, she tries to make herself invisible by playing the bartender role at a strip club. However, Rhiannon's desire to fade into the woodwork does not go exactly as planned. Disco, a truly delicious, I mean good-looking man, I mean vampire, knows that Rhiannon is a Necromancer, and he has plans for Rhiannon, whether she likes it or not.

The action in this book is intense, and the scenes are vivid. I was scared when Rhiannon was scared, I was pissed when Rhiannon was pissed; when she had doubts about whom she could trust, I felt like helping her along. I really liked Rhiannon. Usually, when an urban fantasy tough chick is so tough, she comes across as almost brutish. In this case, the author created the perfect UF chick- tough but tender. Ms. Saare did not overplay Rhiannon's supernatural skills, nor did she make Rhiannon out to be too much the victim.

The other characters in this book, especially Disco and Goose, add to the story and make it very believable (can a paranormal book be believable?). The setting was perfect and described to make you, the reader, feel like you were right there.

The cliffhanger:

I would say I hated the ending. However, in truth, I loved it. The cliffhanger is huge. You will want to read the next book immediately. Like the Fever series books by Karen Marie Moning (a series that has many cliffhangers that have been known to drive the fans...off a cliff), cliffhangers are only as frustrating as the book is good. If the book were not good, we would not care about the cliffhanger since your investment in the book is not that great.

Will I read the next book?-

I HAVE to read the next book. I am dying to know what happened and I am begging Ms. Saare to forgo everything else and hurry with the next book in the series. PLEASE!!!

Update- Just placed this book on my "Favorite Book of 2010" shelf (less)

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Dec 20, 2011 MISS VAIN rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: UF fans that love a feisty kickass protagonist and even more delicious leading men.

Shelves: series-that-i-m-obsessed-with

Rhiannon's Law #27: When you're working in a gentlemens club and one of your dancers takes off their heels, alert the big guns; an ass kicking is on the menu.

From the moment I read that first line in the book I knew I was going to be glued to this story. The story begins with a kick ass twenty five year old Rhiannon a bartender at a "gentlemen's club" or let's just call it what it is, a strip joint. She's a snarky, heroic, guarded, foul mouth spewing, tough as nails, "shit kicker wearing" Necrom...more

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Apr 22, 2013 David Green rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: dashing-heroines, urban-fantasy, good-girls-are-also-awesome, 2013-reads, read-by-kindlelight

Don't let the title of the book fool you, Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between is quite a lively tale!

Rhiannon Murphy sees dead people. But unlike a certain member of the Osment family, she doesn't whine about it, she simply looks the ghosts in the eye and tells them to go find someone else to haunt! But when her abilities to see and communicate with ghosts attract the attention of a vampire named Disco, Rhiannon may finally have found something that scares even her. Someone has been murdering...more

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Dec 20, 2011 Jamie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-obsess-over, dark-and-gritty, demons, kick-ass-heroines, killer-cliff-hangers, series-i-can-t-wait-to-continue, unbelievably-sexy-heros, vampires

Okay - I don't have the time right now to do a review any justice, but I will say that I enjoyed this book immensely.

Main character Rhiannon works as a bartender at a strip club. And she can see dead people. Yes - Rhiannon is a necromancer, which I think is very cool. Not too many UF series use necromancers, and even the ones that do (think Anita Blake) lose their way somewhere along the line. When vampires start disappearing, Rhiannon gets asked to help a local group of vamps.

In walks Disco, a...more Okay - I don't have the time right now to do a review any justice, but I will say that I enjoyed this book immensely.

Main character Rhiannon works as a bartender at a strip club. And she can see dead people. Yes - Rhiannon is a necromancer, which I think is very cool. Not too many UF series use necromancers, and even the ones that do (think Anita Blake) lose their way somewhere along the line. When vampires start disappearing, Rhiannon gets asked to help a local group of vamps.

In walks Disco, aka Gabriel. Gabriel is a tall, powerful and sexy-as-hell vampire. He is immediately attracted to Rhiannon. Rhiannon tried to keep her distance - this girl is a most terrible past. I don't want to spoil it, but she has lived through things that would have put others in a mental institution for the rest of their lives. Rhiannon is cautious at first, but she begins working for Disco and his family, and sleuth-work ensues. Goose, aka Ethan, is another necromancer in the group that works as Rhiannon's mentor.

This book was well-paced and well-written. It has a dark and gritty feel to it. Rhiannon doesn't live in a world of sunshine, flowers and happiness. She's just trying to get by, one day at a time, and has a hard time letting down the tough other walls she has constructed around her. I very much enjoy the relationship that develops between her and Disco. He is not the usual type of vamp - he isn't arrogant, he isn't power-drunk, and he isn't an ass. He knows what he wants and he is willing to wait for it patiently. He is sweet and supportive, and just might become a part of my harem of book boyfriends yet.

The ending of this book introduces the reader to a demon who knocks this story sideways. The story ends on a cliff hanger that had me screeching, "NOOOOOOO!" It's not as bad of a cliff hanger as say, Dreamfever or Carolyn Crane's Double Cross, but it is a nifty cliff hanger nonetheless.

I will be reading the Renfield Syndrome soon. I look forward to continuing with this dark and intriguing series. If you like dark UF and sexy vamps, I would definitely pick this up. It was well-worth my time and has me hooked on Rhiannon's world.(less)

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Jan 07, 2013 Jenne rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2012, demons, vampires, ghosts, read-in-2013

This was a re-read for me and it was just as good the second time. I had forgotten how vulnerable Rhiannon is in this book. In the future installments that's not the case. Rhiannon has to be my all time favorite MC her sarcasm and actions are so funny. When I look back to this book compared to the last one the transformation and growth that Rhiannon goes through is crazy. I do wish there had been more scenes with Paine in book 1 though. Ms. Saare is a mastermind with her character developments &...more

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May 07, 2011 Pamela / SpazP rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

Originally posted at WickedLilPixie Reviews
Since the Spring of this year, I have heard tons of buzz from pretty much all of my favorite fellow book bloggers about this hot new character named “Disco”, in a new book by an author named J.A. Saare. I’ve seen Disco widgets on their blogs and I’ve seen chatter about Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between on Twitter and Goodreads. The book has been on my radar since, but my roadblock was it’s only been available for purchase through Amazon.com. I hate...more Originally posted at WickedLilPixie Reviews
Since the Spring of this year, I have heard tons of buzz from pretty much all of my favorite fellow book bloggers about this hot new character named “Disco”, in a new book by an author named J.A. Saare. I’ve seen Disco widgets on their blogs and I’ve seen chatter about Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between on Twitter and Goodreads. The book has been on my radar since, but my roadblock was it’s only been available for purchase through Amazon.com. I hate Amazon. I won’t go in to my rant on why, and please don’t ask here because that is not the intent of this review. The point is: I kept putting off buying this book hoping it would become available elsewhere. When it became clear that getting it elsewhere was not going to happen, I sucked it up and ordered the paperback from a company I loathe. After all the build-up and waiting, I am so happy to say that my expectations were most definitely met. From the very first page, with the opening paragraph, I knew I was going to love this:

“Rhiannon’s Law #27: When you’re working in a gentleman’s club and one of your dancers takes off those heels, alert the big guns, an ass kicking is on the menu.”

Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between is the first book in J.A. Saare’s Rhiannon’s Law series. We meet Rhiannon working as a bartender in a gentleman’s club. As she’s trying to make drinks and keep the peace among the dancers and the clientele, a vampire by the name of Disco is relentlessly following her to meet with him after work. Turns out, she has very unique and special abilities that have come to the attention of the vampire population. Disco convinces Rhiannon to use her special abilities in providing help to solve the mystery of local vamps who have gone missing. The story takes off from there… From the very beginning I knew that Rhiannon was going to be one of my top favorite Urban Fantasy heroines. She cusses like a sailor, is brutally honest, and is not afraid to throw down if she feels she is being threatened. As Rhiannon says about another snarky character she has to work with… “A girl after my own smartass heart.” That actually described exactly how I felt about Rhiannon herself. How can you not love a heroine who says things like this to her romantic interest?

“If you were anyone else, your nuts would be taking a long vacation, and the destination would be out of your mouth.”

And speaking of romantic interest, “Disco” is such a different kind of Hero than I am used to, and he has a quality that I am a sucker for. He is seemingly shy! At first look, Rhiannon and Disco could not be any different. About 10 minutes in to their first “non-date” Rhiannon makes him blush and say “Jesus Christ!” in shock when she asks him something he perceives as completely direct and crude… still, he is completely enamored with her from the beginning and that is very clear. Incidentally, the quote above is directed at him. And what does he do? He smiles! He loves her tough talking smartass too. He is truly dreamy, and his appeal is off the charts.

This book moves fast, is very smart and clever, has some explosive sexual tension between the Hero and Heroine, and there is some awesome gore. We get glimpses in to Rhiannon’s dark and gut-wrenching past, as well as Disco’s, creating an instant connection with both main characters. And the ending? Well. Let’s just say it will leave you begging for more. The Renfield Syndrome is the next in the series and will be out sometime in the summer 2011. If you love your Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance, this is a wonderful blend of both genres. You want to read this book! Don’t wait as long as I did to pick it up!(less)

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Aug 15, 2012 Carla rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, 2012-read

Wow this book is good, really good. I heard lots of amazing things about it and I was really curious, so I decided to give it a shot, since I really like UF stories with a bad ass heroine and an alpha male hero. And it turns out I’m not disappointed at all. For a UF story, the author knew how to develop the story very well, she intercalated all the subject matters in a way that it wasn’t boring at all, she mixed everything perfectly.

This story is about Rhiannon (25), she’s a necromancer (what do...more Wow this book is good, really good. I heard lots of amazing things about it and I was really curious, so I decided to give it a shot, since I really like UF stories with a bad ass heroine and an alpha male hero. And it turns out I’m not disappointed at all. For a UF story, the author knew how to develop the story very well, she intercalated all the subject matters in a way that it wasn’t boring at all, she mixed everything perfectly.

This story is about Rhiannon (25), she’s a necromancer (what does it mean?! Well she see dead people, actually there’s more about it.) She’s also the typical bad ass heroine, although she's just human. But she also had a hard life since her parents died when she was ten and she had to go live in a foster home. So she has trust issues and doesn’t let anyone get too close. She’s also kind of sarcastic and has pretty dirty mouth, which is kind of funny. Oh yeah and she also works as bartender at a strip club. One day she meets Disco, a breathtaking and powerful vampire that asks for her help. His kind is disappearing and he needs her help because of her abilities with spirits. Rhiannon is not happy about it, but she can't deny it. So Rhiannon gets involved in this strange world and of course things don't go easy for her. Although, good things happens, she meets great people like Goose, Nala and Paine and Disco of course. Actually, Rhiannon and Disco is something… oh hell how do I describe them?! This couple turned out to be really good. I loved both of them. I just had one issue in this subject matter. I finished the book and I still don't know how they fell in love. I mean, I didn't see the first time they saw each other... I understand the undenible attraction betweem them, and his need to know her better, to make her trust him, protect her and everything else... but love? Was it after the incident by the end of the book or was it before? I don't know... when did she started to love him? Was during the time she spent with him at his house in the end? Which we didn't see a thing because the author moved forward.
So see? That's just weird... I get that they fell in love, I'm just sad that I didn't see that happening properly.

And the end?! Wow! It surprised me completely. But oh boy Rhiannon... How could you do that? Haven't you read enough books or watched movies or even Supernatural to know that you can't do what you just did! Stupid stupid stupid! Come on! I’m hooked, I need book two NOW! LOL
(less)

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Jun 06, 2011 Natasha rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

A fantastic new Urban Fantasy!

"Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between" is the first novel in the Rhiannon's Law series by J.A Saare. I was pleasantly surprised with this novel. I chose it on a whim and just from reading the first sentence, I knew I would be hooked.

Rhiannon is a new favorite heroine of mine. As a necromancer who can see ghosts and even talk to them, she won't let you down. She tries hard to hide her ability, especially from the supernatural. She wants nothing to do with the super...more

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Nov 12, 2010 Julie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-in-2010

This is another example of blogland peer pressure. I saw “Dead, Undead, and Somewhere in Between” by JA Saare floating around the blogs when it first released and was intrigued. But I didn’t pick it up because I could only get it here as an eBook and I didn’t have my Reader yet. Now, it’s making the rounds again (mostly thanks to Jess), and I have my Kobo now…so I got it. I loved every minute of this book…until I got to the very end. Okay, I shall tell you why.

I am really enjoying Urban Fantasy...more This is another example of blogland peer pressure. I saw “Dead, Undead, and Somewhere in Between” by JA Saare floating around the blogs when it first released and was intrigued. But I didn’t pick it up because I could only get it here as an eBook and I didn’t have my Reader yet. Now, it’s making the rounds again (mostly thanks to Jess), and I have my Kobo now…so I got it. I loved every minute of this book…until I got to the very end. Okay, I shall tell you why.

I am really enjoying Urban Fantasy (UF) books this year. The heroines are amazing. They are complex characters with real flaws but that won’t lie down and play dead when life throws them a blow. The worlds are extraordinary and imaginative. The whole experience is fantastic…except for one thing. UF doesn’t guarantee a HEA. That’s a Happy Ever After. In Romance, it’s a given. You may not be floating in a bubble when you are finished reading an installment of a continuing series, but there will be love and there will be a guy and a girl stating their undying love for one another and they will be riding off into the sunset damn it! But, in UF, there is no such rule. You can have a guy and a girl, but the guy might end up with amnesia and ride off on the horse without the girl. Or the girl might end up in a time traveling tunnel with the guy screaming her name begging her to struggle harder to get out of there…and then we read The. End. And WTF?! CLIFFHANGER! *insert every colorful curse word you know here* Damn you Urban Fantasy books for making our hearts beat faster than normal and making us perspire disgusting amounts sweat.

So, as you can tell, I have issues with unresolved plots. But the fact that someone can write something that affects me so is a sign of a good author. I really did like this book. I thought the story was wonderful. The characters were fantastic (I’ll touch on them in a sec). I was reading and reading and reading and then the end hit. I didn’t scream. It wasn’t that bad of an ending. But I did quietly say “son of a b*itch” and then *mumble grumbled* a little. Was the ending worth reading the book though? ABSOLUTELY.

I have a new contender for my Favorite Character list. Rhiannon. She is extraordinary. She says what’s on her mind and doesn’t give a rats behind about it. Rhiannon is a necromancer. Someone who can see spirits (yes, as in ‘I see dead people’). She doesn’t really know much about her ability, just that it exists. She is asked (told) by Disco, a vampire, to help them try to figure out why vampires have been disappearing lately. Most necromancers can’t see the twice dead, but Disco thinks Rhiannon can.

Ah…Disco. The more you see him in the book, the more you want to see of him. He is responsible for his own ‘house’ and therefore is very dominant and strong. Yet he is not overly in your face alpha. I really liked that about him. It’s not a usual trait we see in a central male character in UF books. And I can see why people swoon when they say the name Disco. I am swooning right now. Watch me go… *swoon*

I really enjoyed JA Saare’s style. Her story telling is wonderful. It flows well and captures you from the very first line. She gets bonus points for not killing off Disco as she originally intended too. (Can you believe that she really wanted to do that? Like, OMG!)

“Dead, Undead, or Something in Between” is a great UF story. Interesting concept, great heroine and compelling supporting characters that really bring it all together. And even though this story didn’t end up with the characters rolling around in a field of wild daisies (like I would have preferred), I have to look on the bright side. Slight cliff-hanger = book two is on its way!

4.5 stars (less)

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Jan 25, 2012 Rosalie Stanton rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, urban-fantasy, strong-heroine, sexy-vampire, cliffhanger, favorite-author, crit-partner

With the explosion in popularity among many paranormal romances and urban fantasies, one would expect a variety in motifs, execution and lore in the stories themselves. While many authors have a knack for bending rules and taking a common theme and making it their own, creating a tangible yet fantastical world becomes more difficult. The goal is to ensnare the reader with an angle that hasn’t been explored, or to revisit one that needs revisiting with a unique twist. You want your work to be ori...more With the explosion in popularity among many paranormal romances and urban fantasies, one would expect a variety in motifs, execution and lore in the stories themselves. While many authors have a knack for bending rules and taking a common theme and making it their own, creating a tangible yet fantastical world becomes more difficult. The goal is to ensnare the reader with an angle that hasn’t been explored, or to revisit one that needs revisiting with a unique twist. You want your work to be original while still acknowledging the typical hooks within the genre, and you want to make sure that, were a reader to stumble into your world, they would know it’s yours and no one else’s.

J.A Saare’s Dead, Undead, Or Somewhere In Between is a rare treat of a novel. In it, readers are introduced to characters real enough to be your next door neighbor and a storyline engaging enough to keep you up well past your bedtime just so you can find out what happens next. The novel is shown through the eyes of its sassy, foul-mouthed protagonist, Rhiannon Murphy. Rhiannon is a bartender by trade, though she has the unenviable ability to see those who have departed from this mortal coil…both once and twice over. This makes her an incredibly powerful necromancer, as well as the unwitting target of local beasties who want to drag her into their world.

Rhiannon spends her nights tending bar, dealing with loud-mouthed regulars and bickering strippers. Her routine is hijacked by a vampire called Disco, who promptly turns Rhiannon’s world on its head. She is introduced to others who possess her abilities—though not quite to her extent—and implored for help in uncovering who is behind a string of nasty vamp-killings. As a necromancer who can see the twice-dead, Rhiannon’s abilities make her an invaluable asset for the good guys and a coveted trophy for the bad.

This story quite literally has everything, but I think the aspect I was most taken with was the Ms. Saare’s ability to weave and write such strong, believable characters. Through the roster of personalities to which readers are introduced, every one of them maintains originality and their own voice. Furthermore, Ms. Saare has an appreciation for wit, and certainly knows how to creatively but tastefully interweave sass and story, especially during parts that demand comic relief. I loved the slow get-to-know-you between Rhiannon and Disco and the build-up in their relationship, but I was also impressed with how other ‘side’ characters were never shoved from “screen-time” for the sake of the romance.

I was also incredibly impressed with the climax. There was no quick-fix or rapid explanation, rather a very serious and “hold your breath” conclusion to the main storyline. The antagonists were well written and appropriately creepy, and the last ten pages? Well…let’s just say I’ll be waiting with my credit card when the next installment is released.

If you’re looking for a good, engaging, well-written story with believable characters, then Dead, Undead, Or Somewhere In Between is definitely the book for you. It’s witty and original, and easily one of my favorite reads in a long while.

Rosalie's rating? 5/5(less)

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Jan 10, 2013 Carrie Penney rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 1st-in-a-series, abuse, demons, detective-private-eye-sleuth, ebook, ghost, incubus, necromancy, new-to-me-author, part-of-a-series, paranormal-romance, time-travel, urban-fantasy, vampire, tower-team, monopoly, words-with-friends

Rhiannon is great, she has this take no shit attitude. Which is her mask, her wall so to speak. She has a lot hidden things in her past, she's gone through so much pain. At first I wasn't a fan of how she treated and acted around Disco, but as the story went on things changed, her trust grew. Her lack of trust is understandable based on her past and well because hello vampire. Speaking of Disco, hello new book boyfriend.

Loved this book, great start to what I hope will be a fantastic series. And...more

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Jul 03, 2010 Alisha rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: UF fans of kick-butt female protagonists

Rating: 4.5
(I had this as four stars until I got to the last few chapters. Which rocked my damn socks off.)

Overall, I found this to be an awesome series starter. Basically, it's about sassy bartender, Rhiannon Murphy, and her induction (of sorts) into the world of the dead and undead. She's grappled with many past (metaphorical) demons as well as her own rare ability to see dead people. Along with her new partners-in-crime, fellow necromancer Ethan "Goose" McDaniel and mysterious vampire "Disco,...more Rating: 4.5
(I had this as four stars until I got to the last few chapters. Which rocked my damn socks off.)

Overall, I found this to be an awesome series starter. Basically, it's about sassy bartender, Rhiannon Murphy, and her induction (of sorts) into the world of the dead and undead. She's grappled with many past (metaphorical) demons as well as her own rare ability to see dead people. Along with her new partners-in-crime, fellow necromancer Ethan "Goose" McDaniel and mysterious vampire "Disco," she attempts to solve mysterious disappearances that might involve the living and undead alike.

Though ultimately I ended up super digging the book, for some reason it took me a handful of chapters to get into the story and characters. Even now I'm having trouble describing why that was. Rhiannon had this voice, rife with endless Badass-isms, that either grew on me or mellowed out with the unfolding of the story (but either way, grated at first). I couldn't reconcile the (again) "superbadass" nature of her personality with her extreme scaredy-cat behavior when it came to something she's been exposed to for most (or the entirety?) of her life: the (un)dead. Disco for some reason just didn't seem to illicit any reaction from me (pos or neg) for a while. I just don't know! Whatever the case may be, I found my interest was slow to start.

And then "boom" went the dynamite! ^_^ The book just went on an upward trajectory of awesomeness. Ms. Saare must have either lived in, visited, or extensively researched New York because the environment felt real and lived in, more than the result of random name-dropping of locales. The characters were intriguing, as well; yeah, I know what I said above about Rhiannon and Disco but as the story progresses there's a whole lot of internal digging and character development. I specifically enjoyed getting to know Disco's family and their stories and relationships (especially Paine; he could support a whole series himself, and I'd run to read it).

In fact, in my opinion this was a character-oriented book. That is to say, it seemed like the main plot thread/dilemma was there to serve, feature and develop the characters, rather than the other way around (or an equal measure of both). I felt like one of the biggest focuses of the book was delving into Rhiannon's psyche and tracking her personal development as a necromancer. For me, the main mystery was secondary to that.

Another thing about characters (which is neither here nor there I guess)...there were no fewer than 60-odd names to keep track of (I took notes to keep it straight in my addled brain ^_^). Granted, only about 10 are critical to following the plot, with even fewer being "main" characters (Rhiannon, Disco and Goose).

I feel I should also note that the book does have some dark themes and difficult scenes (including some explicit violence and depictions of domestic/sexual abuse). Pretty tough stuff, but the way Saare weaves it into her tale is nothing short of amazing and gripping.

So yeah. This book was a ride, ending with a cliffhanger that melted me where I sat. The Renfield Syndrome cannot come soon enough, and I know it's going to be an absolute knockout with the great setup it's been given.

P.S./sidenote: I've noticed some reviews taking issue with some of the editing on the book (go read them to see what I mean). I personally don't pay attention to my inner editor when it comes to my reads, unless it screws with comprehension. So I leave extensive discussion of such out of this review, though I don't completely disagree with some of the points brought up in relation to it.(less)

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Jul 12, 2012 Kathryn rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-goodreads-challenge, e-book, paranormal-others, paranormal-vamps-witches-shifters, paranormal-romance

AMAZING! What a great 1st story! Rhiannon and "Disco" the vampire have great chemistry!

With a hidden past, bartender Rhiannon has come to terms with her abilities. But that didn't mean she wanted to share them. With anybody. Especially not vampires! Disco tries to lead her to help his family find out who's committing crimes against the vampires of NY. She's having none of it. At least not until she feels threatened by another faction. A bunch of steamy attraction and the witty sarcasm of Rhianno...more

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Jan 05, 2012 Jenese (Readers Confession) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy

This book for me started slow...I'm not sure if it was my mood or what. I wasn't aching to read more faster like I have been with some other books. I did notice a few similarities with other books within this genre, but it wasn't so much that it killed the book for me. I did really like the authors writing (although I did notice a few typos and errors) and liked how she made such a bad ass female heroine. Towards the middle to the end of the book it really started to pick up the pace and I found...more

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Aug 14, 2012 Mithrendiel rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, favorites-2012, swoon-worthy-men, vampires, intelligent-kick-ass-heroines

Dead, Undead, and Somewhere Inbetween snared me from the first chapter. I didn’t read this book – I devoured it, and once I was done, I devoured it’s sequel. It has been a while since a series grabbed me as much as this one. But JA Saare knows how to write an engaging tale.

Within the first chapter of Dead, Undead, and Somewhere In Between, Rhiannon was a more real, actualized character than some protagonists I’ve “known” for entire series. She jumps off the page at you, larger than life yet ful...more Dead, Undead, and Somewhere Inbetween snared me from the first chapter. I didn’t read this book – I devoured it, and once I was done, I devoured it’s sequel. It has been a while since a series grabbed me as much as this one. But JA Saare knows how to write an engaging tale.

Within the first chapter of Dead, Undead, and Somewhere In Between, Rhiannon was a more real, actualized character than some protagonists I’ve “known” for entire series. She jumps off the page at you, larger than life yet fully human, genuine, and likeable. At twenty five years old, Rhiannon doesn’t seem to have a lot going for her, yet she is happy. She works as a bartender / bouncer at a gentlemen’s club, spending most of her time slinging drinks, and the rest keeping the patrons and the dancers in line. She is tough as nails, and sarcastic as hell. She has a shitty apartment, and to all respects seems like a fairly normal, if guarded girl. Unfortunately, nothing could be farther from the truth.

You see, Rhiannon is also a necromancer. She sees dead people – literally. This is her most closely guarded secret. She’s seen them for years, since childhood when her parents showed up at their own funeral. Without anyone to guide her, she kept her skills under wrap, but the power of necromancy comes with a giant downside. It makes you a beacon to the undead – all of them, including those that are caught between death and life (aka Vampires). As much as Rhiannon can sense them, they can sense her. And vampires fear necromancers – for there a few rare, powerful ones that can control them just as they control ghosts. And what the vampires fear, their either destroy or possess. This fact has kept her on the run most of her life.

My heart really went out to Rhiannon. She had a terrible, heart breaking childhood spent in foster homes. She had to deal with so much violence and pain at a very young age, while coping with a difficult gift. Her life’s circumstances hardened her, forged her into a strong, self-reliant, self-protective woman, that pushes people away out of habit. She felt 100% real and genuine to me as a character. Everything about her character fits and makes sense in light of her background. I really loved her, and appreciated the worth Ms. Saare put into making her feel so real.

Rhainnon’s ability to hide what she is becomes impossible when a local vampire master with the dubious name of Disco starts tracking her. He corners her and coerces her into helping him track down several missing vampires (members of his clan), presumed dead. Her ability to commune with not only human undead but also vampire undead, makes her uniquely qualified to find and determine the cause behind these disappearances. In return for her assistance, Disco offers his protection from the others of his kind that are hunting her.

Despite his unfortunate nickname, Disco is a fantastic character. He’s an ancient master vampire, and the head of his own house. He has a unique vampiric power that allows him to pull thoughts and memories from the minds of others, a gift that has caused him to isolate himself from others over the years. He does his best to shield himself from the thoughts of others and provide privacy, but his skills make him a force to be reckoned with in the vampire community. At the start of the book, there is SO much we do not know about Disco, and we’re not sure if he’s even trust worthy. This complexity only adds to his appeal though. He felt just as real and likeable to me as Rhiannon even though we never see the story form his perspective, and therefore struggle to completely trust him. I have to admit – I fell madly in love with his character.

One of the best things about Ms. Saare’s characterization is the complexity of her characters. They are layered, with complex backgrounds and carefully guarded secrets, that we slowly uncover throughout the story.

As Rhiannon becomes enmeshed in Disco’s world she meets a host of other amazing characters – one that really stands out is a Goose. Another human necromancer already sworn to Disco, he’s the ultimate geek – sort of a hyper intelligent bumbling dork – which I naturally loved. He’s all heart, and genuinely cares about everyone he knows. He takes Rhiannon under his wing and helps teach her about her necromancy while also helping her acclimate to the supernatural world she’s caught in.

The mystery of Disco’s missing friends quickly turns into a suspenseful, page turning plot. Vampires are missing, and/or found brutalized, with their hearts cut out. Even their undead souls are difficult to track down. There is not a dull moment in this book. It’s one of the most intense novels I’ve read lately.

Intense AND romantic even. God, I really don’t know how Saare does it. I loved the romance in this story. The chemistry between Disco and Rhiannon is ridiculous. Their romantic scenes are just plain hot. I felt swoony, weak kneed and foolishly giddy so many times reading this novel.

I could literally talk about how amazing this book is all day. But I won’t. This review is already long. The ONLY negative I can find with this story involved it’s cliffhanger ending. Ms. Saare seems to be a fan of the cliff hangers, which is no big deal with Dead, Undead, and Somewhere In Between since it’s one of two books already published, right? Well that works, but book 2 ALSO ends in a cliff hanger. *grumbles* Why do all the great authors love cliff hangers? Should this fact stop you from reading this series? I’d say no – it’s very re-readable, so I strongly suggest you rush right out and buy this book. It’s well worth it.
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Jun 01, 2011 Smash added it · review of another edition Recommends it for: rban Fantasy Fans / Vampire Vixens

Shelves: urban-fantasy, read-2011, book-reviews, favorites, review-request-complete, read-own-ebooks

From the very first line of the book..

"Rhiannon’s Law #27: When you’re working in a gentleman’s club and one of your dancers takes off those heels, alert the big guns, an ass kicking is on the menu."

…I knew I would love Rhiannon in all her snarky, sassy glory. She did not let me down and kept me quite entertained throughout the book. She is feisty, sarcastic, extremely independent and comes with quite a potty mouth that she finds hard to contain.

“Multitask? What do I look like, a fucking secreta...more From the very first line of the book..

"Rhiannon’s Law #27: When you’re working in a gentleman’s club and one of your dancers takes off those heels, alert the big guns, an ass kicking is on the menu."

…I knew I would love Rhiannon in all her snarky, sassy glory. She did not let me down and kept me quite entertained throughout the book. She is feisty, sarcastic, extremely independent and comes with quite a potty mouth that she finds hard to contain.

“Multitask? What do I look like, a fucking secretary?” My temper flared before I could bite it back. Erica wasn’t the only one with a big mouth. I was constantly in danger of writing checks my ass couldn’t cash, the bearer of a lifelong disease of potty mouth that no amount of soap in this world could properly cleanse."

It wasn’t easy getting to know Rhiannon, but you certainly appreciate and understand her much more as the story progresses. You learn that Rhiannon’s independence and ‘fuck the world’ attitude stems from a life full of pain and misery caused by her former foster parents. You definitely feel sympathy for her, but also know that Rhiannon would hand you your ass for any pity focused in her direction. Her past is dark and twisted, but she has done what she set out to do from the age of 14: survive.

Rhiannon has a special, unique ability that she hasn’t fully learned about and she struggles with it on a daily basis. In walks Disco, a hot piece o’ vampire that has learned of her talent and asks her to help solve a local mystery. He also offers her a chance to hone her skill. Rhiannon is not excited to work with vampires, but she soon agrees and the story explodes into action.

Hot damn, do I have a new book boyfriend! Disco is delicious in many ways. He is gentle, empathetic, trustworthy, protective, and sexy as hell. Yes, he ends up being Rhiannon’s love interest, and their first sex scene is so intimate and beautiful. And the shower scene after…

The author describes Disco…

"Disco was everything a woman could possibly want. He was gorgeous, he was powerful, and he was the most generous soul I’d ever met. He never expected more than a person was willing to give, not even when he loved them."

Disco isn’t without his own hellish past, and instead of turning into a sadistic vampire that hates with a fierce passion, he has morphed into a loving, compassionate soul that realizes hate only makes you miss out on the beauty in life.

”If her death taught me anything, it’s this. Cherish the time you have. Don’t worry about tomorrow. Right now is all we are promised.”

I was quite enamored with the author’s writing! Not only does she bring the sarcasm, but she also has some very creative phrasing. I thought her storytelling was very entertaining. The book ends in a completely different way then I ever expected. You are introduced to an entirely new supernatural element, that takes the story on very, very different path. I thoroughly look forward to reading The Renfield Syndrome, due out this August.(less)

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Oct 10, 2010 Sharon rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, paranormal-fantasy

I read this is as a paperback, was a little sceptical but you know what, I enjoyed it, it's fresh & different from other UB's out there.
Having had a brutal past, Rhiannon is a reluctant necromancer who works as a bar tender in a strip club, her trust is given sparingly,so her trust has to be earned & she takes pride in being able to look after herself & protect those people around her, you would happily have her at your side during a fight. She also can see spirits & ghosts, but...more

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Jan 27, 2012 Laura *Daddy's Deviant Little Girl* rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: owned, paranormal, alphalicious, favorites, buddy-read-w-susie

J.A. Saare has provided another book to go on my favorites list. From the first chapter when I read,
"Rhiannon's Law #27: When you're working in a gentlemens club and one of your dancers takes off their heels, alert the big guns; an ass kicking is on the menu."
I knew I was going to get hooked. Rhiannon is the meet you head on, take no bull type of heroine that I adore. She is sarcastic, witty and totally kick-ass. Add an ultra sexy alpha vampire, unfortunatley nicknamed Disco, a cast of great su...more

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Feb 17, 2010 Anna rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviews, urban-fantasy

Rhiannon is a necromancer that works at a Gentleman's Club as a bartender. Her night started off good. Whiny drunks, exotic dancers hissy fits, a complaining boss... she can handle. But when delectable vampire, Disco shows up demanding to talk to her she knows her night is about to go down hill.

Dead, Undead or Somewhere in Between was a fast, and exciting read. Ms. Saare was created a gritty and sexy world. She does a wonderful job of weaving the paranormal into an urban setting. Rhiannon is def...more

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Apr 23, 2013 Sabrina marked it as did-not-finish · review of another edition

Taking inspiration and ideas from others is all well and good. But you have to draw a line somewhere.
This book crossed that line, and not in a pretty way.

Here we have an Anita Blake/Rhiannon, the main character: a young woman with a foul language who happens to be a necromancer with growing powers. Enter the scene the love interests, aka the fellow necromancer Richard/Goose and the handsome vampire Jean-Claude/Disco (yes, the author has a way with names). I just couldn't wrap my head around the...more

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Apr 13, 2013 Alexandra rated it 5 of 5 stars

This was one of be best books I've read this year.

The story line is very unique blending mystery detective with hints of romance - erotica and full blown paranormal. I say "hints" because romance is only the underlying theme of this story and there aren't many scenes featuring full on sexual encounters. With that said though, it was an all in all very enjoyable read. The plot twists and turns kept me enthralled and reading well into the predawn hours.

The lead female, Rhiannon, is a sharp witte...more This was one of be best books I've read this year.

The story line is very unique blending mystery detective with hints of romance - erotica and full blown paranormal. I say "hints" because romance is only the underlying theme of this story and there aren't many scenes featuring full on sexual encounters. With that said though, it was an all in all very enjoyable read. The plot twists and turns kept me enthralled and reading well into the predawn hours.

The lead female, Rhiannon, is a sharp witted barb tongued vixen who ends up having to choose a side in a battle of blood and magic between paranormal creatures that includes vampires, necromancers, demons, witches, and aristocratic humans with a taste for blood (literally). This free spirited and unruly female's untapped powers bring her to the attention of a very beautiful and very dangerous vampire who needs her help tracking down the person responsible for some of his fellow kin's disappearances. Trapped between a rock and a hard place, Rhiannon has no choice but to team up with Disco (the aforementioned attractive undead) and a necromancer called Goose to seek out the creep who is ripping out the hearts of vampires in New York City.

I fell in love with Rhiannon right away, her brash attitude and ability to handle herself in tight situations intensifies her already strong character. But what I like most about her is that she's not conceited and knows when to follow her heart with out her head interfering with her decisions. That intuition is what makes the story unique. Its difficult to find novels with characters that go deeper than the page and J.A. Saare knows how to bring life into the desert. And speaking of heat, Disco - also known as Gabriel- is one of the hot points in this chemical romance. He is alluring, compassionate, possessive in a way that makes your heart break from his need for affection and love instead of running to the nearest court house for a protection order, cunning, breathtakingly beautiful, and down right incredibly perfect for the job of getting through Rhiannon's many barriers and into her heart. Saare brought in characters besides the leading male and female, that also had substance and distinct personalities that suited their roles and complemented others. I would have liked more visual details of scenes to picture them better, but sometimes that kind of filler can ruin a good story. So if I had to choose between a book with strong characters, but too drawn out with inept detailing that sucks the life out the story, and a book with strong characters with just enough details that forces your mind to fill in the blanks for itself; I would choose the latter.

All in all, I suggest reading this book. You wont be disappointed.(less)

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Apr 08, 2013 Ipzo_facto rated it 3 of 5 stars

First of all I was a little unsure whether I should give this book a 3 or 4 star rating. I decided on the 3 star rating because it is a nice and light read but nevertheless has its flaws.

The plot revolves around 25-year-old Rhiannon with a dark past. She works as a bartender in a strip club but her life turns upside down when she gets sucked into the supernatural world, guided by vampire master Disco and necromancer Goose and realizes that she isn't 100% human either. Throw in some dead vampires

...more

First of all I was a little unsure whether I should give this book a 3 or 4 star rating. I decided on the 3 star rating because it is a nice and light read but nevertheless has its flaws.

The plot revolves around 25-year-old Rhiannon with a dark past. She works as a bartender in a strip club but her life turns upside down when she gets sucked into the supernatural world, guided by vampire master Disco and necromancer Goose and realizes that she isn't 100% human either. Throw in some dead vampires and a mysterious murder case and there you have your typical urban fantasy storyline. The author sticks to the common principles and rules of urban fantasies - nothing wrong with it but don't expect any big twists, turns or suprises.
Sometimes I got the feeling that this book was the first book the author ever published because the writing style varies between good and a little odd, especially in the beginning. For example the author describes Disco's eyes in the minutest detail everytime he and Rhiannon meet. Trust me, that happens a lot! Also the murder mystery wasn't such a big mystery at all. Because of the author's writing style I could easily detect which persons where relevant for the story and spotted the murderer instantly.

Compared to other urban fantasy series the characters aren't as developed as they could have been. They lack a little depth and sometimes seem too superficial for my taste. Take Rhiannon for example: pretty but badass with a dark past (how archetypical). In the first third of the book I could relate to her motives and decisions. Suddenly a big character development occurs out of nowhere and I didn't really buy her new self and the actions she takes from that moment on. Throughout the book Rhiannon absolutly doesn't want to talk about her past. But suddenly she spills the beans out of nowhere (view spoiler) This felt a little rushed and implausible to me. But all in all the characters are likeable and none of them is annoying at all.

Despite those flaws "Dead, Undead, or somwhere in between" is a nice read for everyone who has too much free time to spare. I also liked the ending. It makes the reader wonder how the story evolves. That's why I will also read the sequel. Hopefully the author's writing style also evolves with book 2.

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Mar 13, 2013 SirenBookReviews rated it 5 of 5 stars

Vampire fans, don't miss this book! Having read many vampire genre stories, this book falls among the best of them. J.A. Saare manages to blend a touch of humour smoothly into the horror genre with a touch of sadness seamlessly. To me, this story was reminiscent of the Kim Harrison, Rachel Morgan series. This author has a similar talent for gentle touches of humour dabbled throughout her paranormal tale. With vampire names like Disco and Cash one just has to smile while reading this tale.

The onl...more

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Jun 24, 2012 Rondra Tamplin rated it 3 of 5 stars

I really liked this the heroine in this book. Quick tongue, smart assed, and not quite so nice. Her bitchiness was somewhat refreshing for a character without crossing the line into unlikable with me. Kindred spirit? Maybe.
I also enjoyed the pace of the book. Not a lot of dead time. Visually captivating with some scenes, which I won't go into due to spoiler intention.
Rhiannon's background was horrifying, making her into the tough cookie she is today. I enjoyed the dialogue a lot. I dig women who...more

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Apr 13, 2012 Ainsley rated it 3 of 5 stars

The characters, world-building and mystery are all very intriguing and keep the reader gripped in the story. Its all over the top, almost cliche-ish, but J.A. Saare manages to make the characters very likeable. That's what kept me reading, otherwise I probably would not have finished it. The problem I had was with the pacing of this book. It almost felt like I was missing pages, the book jumped from one event to anther so fast. Rhiannon, who is a very closed off and private person, seems to go s...more

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Mar 26, 2012 Steph rated it 4 of 5 stars

A decent book that really got my attention more towards the end. I think I'm about done with reading any new vampire plots. They all seem to be relatively similar, with little that ever surprises me anymore. Another thing that stays true to the UF paradigm is the ever smart-mouthed & kick-assed persona of the UF female protagonists. I actually don't mind this protagonist or her smart mouth that much, because she is somewhat likable and sometimes vulnerable.

As per usual, the vampires are sedu...more

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Jan 09, 2012 Susie rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy

I liked the author's writing style, the heroine's voice, and dialogue. It had a nice balance of humor, action, and sadness. Initially, I was hesitant about the series after hearing some of the names. I'm one of the few who isn't a big JR Ward fan, and names like Vishous, Rhage or whatever doesn't float my boat. When I heard the love interest's name, Disco, I was put off. After reading more reviews, I found out that he had a legitimate name..whew. Yes, the dumbest things bug me. I know. :(

I rate...more

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Dec 25, 2011 Crystallena rated it 3 of 5 stars

GRRRRR! I really, really, really (seriously, really) hate the use of cliffhangers! I understand that many authors writing a series use this tired trick to ensure that the reader will purchase the next book. Sometimes, it is used effectively (the old story is resolved and look what is coming up if you keep reading!) Most often, it just pisses me off that I have to wait for the continuation of the story. This is especially frustrating when I have to wait a year or more to get the next installment....more

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Aug 24, 2011 Madame X rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal-urban-fantasy

Writing this review has clarified my feelings about Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between. Because I enjoyed reading it, but for the life of me I couldn't explain what actually happened in the novel. The heroine, Rhiannon, is a necromancer who's forced to help investigate a series of murders. That's clear enough. But instead of following clues and building evidence and closing in on an answer, I felt like they just floundered around at random until the murderer got tired of waiting for some acti...more Writing this review has clarified my feelings about Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between. Because I enjoyed reading it, but for the life of me I couldn't explain what actually happened in the novel. The heroine, Rhiannon, is a necromancer who's forced to help investigate a series of murders. That's clear enough. But instead of following clues and building evidence and closing in on an answer, I felt like they just floundered around at random until the murderer got tired of waiting for some action and decided to speed things along.

OK, so it's not a mystery or a procedural. Is it about the fantasy aspects - about Rhiannon learning to use her necromantic powers? Well...not really. She has some new experiences but doesn't gain any kind of mastery or competence over the course of the novel. She talks about wanting instruction a lot, but there's no growth on the page.

Hmm. So is it a romance? It might mostly be a romance, in terms of page count. The love interest, Disco, is a powerful, urbane, well-educated and articulate vampire while Rhiannon is a mouthy, foul-tempered bartender who works in a strip club. Which isn't to say she couldn't be the woman of his dreams...but that's a pretty big gap to overcome. I would have LOVED to watch them slowly get closer together, see the attraction build and overcome their superficial differences. Instead, Disco falls for her really quickly. Rhiannon keeps up a token resistance for a while but it's not convincing to anyone. So the romance didn't really capture me; it was too easy.

There was one scene in the book that really bothered me: Rhiannon is attacked by an incubus. He turns her on, but she doesn't want what he's offering and tries to escape. An accomplice captures her and drugs her with chloroform so she can't get away. Later, the incubus and Disco are discussing whether or not the incubus did anything wrong and they both seem to be under the impression that Rhiannon somehow consented to the incubus' advances. The Incubus is all, "She wanted it!" and Disco is like, "You might think that, but..." instead of, "Then what's up with the CHLOROFORM?!?!?"

The writing flowed pretty well and the characters felt real. Especially Disco, who leaped off the page despite the fact that he's basically a cliche. I think Saare wasted a lot of opportunities, though. Rhiannon has a huge trauma in her past and she will tell everyone that the trauma exists but won't explain what actually happened. But instead of building up to an intimate moment of revelation between Rhiannon and Disco, she ends up spilling her story to a random stranger. No impact. Disco has a big sob story, too, but he doesn't tell it - some other secondary character spills the beans to Rhiannon so that when the time comes, again, no intimate moment of revelation. It's already done and over, and the impact is so much less than it could have been.

I don't regret reading Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between, and I wouldn't mind reading the sequel. But it didn't excite me, either.(less)

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Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between (Rhiannon's Law #1)

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