Taken by the Others (H&W Investigations, #2)

Dec 14, 2010 Shera (Book Whispers) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-review-requests, urban-fantasy, vampire, witches-mages-druids-wizards-other, werewolves

ARC Book will be released January 4, 2011

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Thoughts:

After reading Hunted by the Others, the first book in the H&W investigations series, I had lumped it as stereotypical comfort food for UF fans. Sure Haines had a very unique world where the Others are governed by law and can't just change people willy nilly. There was still something missing for me and with book number two I figured I'd get another 3/5 book. Haines definitely blew me out of the water.

The plot picks up an...more

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Feb 15, 2011 Mistress ~ ♠ Mistral's Kiss ♠ ~ (Mist) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, shifters-grrr-arghhh-grrr, vampires-brood-bite-slurp

Non stop action and revelations, this go round. And a bit more hardcore and angsty than I expected, but never the less damn good. We got to experience a lot more Royce in this one too.

(view spoiler)

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May 13, 2013 Inessa rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy

My English review: http://www.betweendandr.com/2013/05/1...

Mon avis en français : http://www.betweendandr.com/2013/05/1...

Voici donc donc la suite des aventures de Shiarra Waynest. J’avoue que j’avais quelques appréhensions concernant cette lecture. En effet, j’avais été un peu déçue par le premier tome et j’avais peur que ça soit la même chose avec ce tome-ci mais heureusement, ça n’a pas du tout été le cas, bien au contraire et du coup, je suis bien contente d’avoir malgré tout poursuivi cette...more My English review: http://www.betweendandr.com/2013/05/1...

Mon avis en français : http://www.betweendandr.com/2013/05/1...

Voici donc donc la suite des aventures de Shiarra Waynest. J’avoue que j’avais quelques appréhensions concernant cette lecture. En effet, j’avais été un peu déçue par le premier tome et j’avais peur que ça soit la même chose avec ce tome-ci mais heureusement, ça n’a pas du tout été le cas, bien au contraire et du coup, je suis bien contente d’avoir malgré tout poursuivi cette série car cette fois-ci j’ai vraiment adoré.

On retrouve donc notre détective privée, Shia, quelques mois après les événements du tome 1 qui lui ont valu une assez longue période d’hospitalisation. L’histoire débute au moment où Jack, un membre des White Hats, débarque armé dans son bureau. Ce dernier ne cesse de faire pression sur elle afin qu’elle accepte intégrer son groupe de chasseurs. Qui plus est, il lui apprend qu’un nouveau vampire nommé Max Carlyle est sur le point d’arriver en ville et il semblerait que ce dernier en ait après elle. Bien décidée à en savoir plus afin de mieux se protéger contre cette nouvelle menace, Shia n’a d’autre choix que de se tourner vers Alec Royce, le vampire le plus puissant de New York, celui qu’elle s’était promis d’éviter coûte que coûte. A partir de là, les ennuis ne font que commencer pour notre héroïne…

Ce tome est bien meilleur que le précédent car totalement addictif. Enlevée nous tient en haleine du début jusqu’à la fin. Il y a beaucoup plus d’action, on n’a vraiment pas le temps de s’ennuyer. Bon, Shia est toujours aussi agaçante lorsqu’elle est effrayée ou en proie à la panique. Elle a toujours tendance à hurler et à pleurer à tout va, heureusement qu’elle a sa ceinture magique ! Vraiment, j’aurais voulu qu’elle soit plus combative et qu’elle prenne un peu plus d’assurance. C’est tout de même étrange cette peur (je dirais même phobie) qu’elle a des vampires. Ceci dit l’histoire dans ce tome est tellement captivante que finalement j’ai fini par m’y habituer. J’espère tout de même qu’elle évoluera davantage par la suite. Elle a déjà bien changé par rapport au tome précédent mais elle a encore des progrès à faire.

Quant à Royce, je dois dire que je suis vraiment sous le charme à présent. Alors qu’il était, pour ainsi dire, pratiquement absent dans le tome 1, je m’attendais à le voir davantage ici et je n’ai pas du tout été déçue. J’ai adoré toutes ces découvertes sur lui, sur son passé, l’étendue de ses pouvoirs. Max, le nouveau venu est aussi un personnage très intéressant. Il est très en colère et avide de vengeance et ce malgré les siècles qui se sont écoulés. Si au début on arrive à éprouver de la peine pour lui, ce sentiment est vite balayé par la suite car progressivement on découvre à quel point il peut se montrer cruel et malfaisant.

On en apprend un peu plus également au sujet des White Hats. Je croyais qu’on aurait affaire à des fanatiques ultra violents et du coup j’ai été drôlement surprise par l’attitude de certains de leurs membres, en particulier Devon et Minus. J’espère qu’on les verra de nouveau par la suite car finalement je les ai trouvé assez sympathiques. Chaz en revanche m’a beaucoup intrigué dans ce livre. Je me pose plusieurs questions à son sujet. Il se comporte de façon assez étrange tout au long du roman, ce que ne manque pas de remarquer notre héroïne. J’ai hâte de lire le tome suivant afin d’en savoir un peu plus sur lui et sa meute. On fait également la connaissances de deux personnages féminins fort intéressants : La Carpe et Dawn. Je ne vais pas vous révéler leur nature mais elles m’ont beaucoup impressionné toutes les deux. Sara et Arnold sont moins présents dans ce deuxième tome mais ça a été un plaisir de les voir ensemble.

Conclusion : Un deuxième tome riche en action et en révélations et qui relance complètement mon intérêt pour cette série. Après un début un peu difficile, j’avais vraiment peur de ne pas accrocher mais maintenant ça y est, je suis devenue complètement accro. J’ai toujours un peu de mal à m’attacher à Shia mais j’espère de tout cœur que je finirai par l’apprécier réellement avec le troisième tome qu’il me tarde de lire.(less)

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May 04, 2013 Ana rated it 4 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Wow. Compared to the first book this is unnaturally much better. For one, it was bigger and more explicit on what was going on and why. There was also considerably more action and more twists to the plot. The characters were more easy to relate to and added a more realistic feel to all of it.
Overall it felt more whole and complete than the first.

Regarding the plot...I know all the sweet talking Royce is supposed to make me see him in a better light and actually consider the idea that he'll be a...more Wow. Compared to the first book this is unnaturally much better. For one, it was bigger and more explicit on what was going on and why. There was also considerably more action and more twists to the plot. The characters were more easy to relate to and added a more realistic feel to all of it.
Overall it felt more whole and complete than the first.

Regarding the plot...I know all the sweet talking Royce is supposed to make me see him in a better light and actually consider the idea that he'll be a nice friend and possible love interest for Shia but all I could really think during their bond was: Get the f*ck out while you can! Run like hell! Kill him! I know, not very sporting of me considering he only did it to help her and he never reinforced the bond despite her wild pleas to do it when she was in pain but he really freaks me the hell out and I can't even imagine any romance brewing there. It's just so damn creeptacular! Ew.

Chaz kinda disappointed me there at the end when he left her alone with the vamps because he couldn't deal with her heated looks to Royce. I mean, it sucks. No pun intended. But wasn't her fault and it sure as hell wasn't on purpose or something she could stop. He did well however in dealing with the rest of the other crap. He stayed with her and tried very hard to keep her safe and actually acted like a real alpha wolf sometimes like I had hoped.

Arnold and Sara were mostly on the sidelines and although I missed them like crazy, I can't help but be grateful because Max was seriously psychotic and he would have made them in pieces without a second thought or glance.

As a finishing touch,Shia. Well. I can't help thinking she would have a more fulfilling life if she just cut ties to Royce and everything vampire-related. And John? She really did not see that one coming? I kinda did. He was the most obvious backstabbing bastard ever!
I'm considerably also intrigued by Dawn's conversation about elven touch in Shia. Seems there's something there...something I think Royce already knows and might actually explain his interest in Shia. I would like to think she'll pursue this venue but I think it flew right over her head honestly.(less)

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Sep 04, 2012 Liz rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: fans of paranormal and paranormal romance

Recommended to Liz by: Jess Haines

In the second book in the series, Taken by the Others, things become more dangerous for our heroine, Shiarra Waynest, with the arrival of a new vampire in town. His name is Max Carlyle and he’s after Shia.

“Taken by the Others” takes place a couple of months after the end of “Hunted”. Shiarra is fully recovered from her near-death experience and eager to just put the past to rest and get on with her ‘normal’ investigating. The scene opens with the leader of the White Hats organization, Jack, once...more In the second book in the series, Taken by the Others, things become more dangerous for our heroine, Shiarra Waynest, with the arrival of a new vampire in town. His name is Max Carlyle and he’s after Shia.

“Taken by the Others” takes place a couple of months after the end of “Hunted”. Shiarra is fully recovered from her near-death experience and eager to just put the past to rest and get on with her ‘normal’ investigating. The scene opens with the leader of the White Hats organization, Jack, once again pointing a gun at Shia. The White Hats are a vigilante group of Others-haters, bent on totally eradicating anything non-human off the face of the earth. Jack has been trying to get Shia to join them but his methods are off-putting and Shia refuses his ‘invitations’.

This time, however, Jack tells Shia that someone named Max Carlyle is on his way into town, and refers to him as “a new player in the game”. Apparently, Jack is gearing up for a big showdown between Carlyle, Alec Royce and the werewolves, and he intends to be on the winning side. He believes that Shia can aid him to this end. I love how Jess Haines sets up the whole story in the first few paragraphs of the book. You know exactly what kind of ride you’re on from the beginning and the journey with Shia is everything.

Since Shia has never heard of this ‘Max Carlyle’, she figures there’s one person who would know, and she calls Alec Royce. Royce is the oldest, wealthiest and most powerful vampire in the city, and in fact owns the city. And he’s the hottest thing on two legs with fangs. Shia is bound to him by contract which offers both security and terror. If you’ve read “Hunted” you know what I mean.

Royce shows up at Shia’s apartment and she learns that Max Carlyle is a very dangerous vampire with a grudge against Royce and Shia is the pawn Max will use to hurt him. As the story unfolds and bad things happen to Shia, we are given Alec Royce’s history. We learn about his connection with Max and we get the story of how and who made them vampires.

As “Taken” moves us toward the inevitable battle between Alec and Max, Shia furthers her relationships with the White Hats and the werewolves, gaining their aid in the battle to come. She’s also made some new enemies. I love Shia’s battle gear. She’s so bad-ass when she dresses in her sweater made to protect her from bites, a necklace which shields her from a vampire’s glamour, perfume that when worn, hides the fact that she’s food for Others and a magical belt which holds three stakes and room for more weapons – and the spirit of a long-dead warrior who is always itching to hunt and kill vampires. Once Shia puts the belt on it stays there until daylight when the spirit lies dormant and the belt can be taken off. It makes her stronger, faster and harder to kill. All of which will be tested in “Taken by the Others”.

Shia had to make some very tough choices in this book. The results did not make her popular with her boyfriend, Chaz, who is the leader of one of the local werewolf packs. Their relationship is changed but Shia is determined to work things out with him. Personally, I don’t trust Chaz and I am not impressed with his whiny professed love for Shia. Give me the big, bad vampire with the cool, confident demeanor any day.

In “Taken by the Others”, Haines once again expertly takes you on this dark and dangerous journey with Shia that frightens you and keeps you in suspense, never being sure of what’s going to happen next. Warning: once you start reading this book, you won’t be able to put it down until it’s finished.(less)

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Jun 19, 2012 Felicia rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-read, kindlepurchase2012, 4-25-wine-glasses

Read for Fun!
Overall Rating: 4.25
Story Rating: 4.00
Character Rating: 4.50

First thought when finished: The ending was fast paced, super fun, and I am glad that I have book 3 ready to go!

What I Loved: I love when an author builds on the book before by flushing out her characters a little more. Jess does a good job of not overwhelming you with a recap from the last book (in UF this tends to be a problem) but giving you a sense of the characters if you start here. I love that we learn more about Roy...more

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Mar 29, 2012 Star (The Bibliophilic Book Blog) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed

After Shia's adventures in Hunted by the Others, she has no trouble paying the bills. She's got cases coming out of her ears and she's able to now pick and choose her clients with a little more care than before. She's now received messages from two different people, both of whom say trouble is coming. However, Shia has no idea what they're talking about until a vampire tries to kidnap her from her own apartment. Thankfully, Alec arrived just in time to take care of the situation. Even with polic...more

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Jan 11, 2012 Amanda rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, beware-of-the-love-triangle, the-series-died-here, vampires, werewolves

Once again Shiarra is bleating about how terrible the vampires are, but once again we never actually see anything to back this up. Sure Max is bad, but who is she to damn a whole race because of one person?

She complains that Royce is manipulative and a user, but all I can see are numerous examples of her playing him along; Shiarra is the one who phones him up and asks for help - several times, so why must she whine about getting involved in his business again? Then she has to wait as he is in a...more Once again Shiarra is bleating about how terrible the vampires are, but once again we never actually see anything to back this up. Sure Max is bad, but who is she to damn a whole race because of one person?

She complains that Royce is manipulative and a user, but all I can see are numerous examples of her playing him along; Shiarra is the one who phones him up and asks for help - several times, so why must she whine about getting involved in his business again? Then she has to wait as he is in a meeting, and she whines because he is dropping what he's doing and coming running.
At one point Royce calls her out on her behaviour towards him, so she plays nice, but her thoughts remain pretty much the same toward him and vampires in general. To me this shows how she in manipulative and is a user, plus it also shows how she has failed to progress and learn from the events of the previous book.

And then how does she repay him? By getting involved with The White Hats - a violent anti-other group, who especially want to kill him. This is another example of how she uses people; she doesn't like The White Hats either, she is again just playing them along, to use them for her needs.

All of this means that I just don't understand why Royce is said to be in love with Shiarra. He must really hate himself.

She is frustrated by how humans treat the Others. Well, as long as the Others includes her werewolf boyfriend and mage friend, as she acts the same way as anyone else about the vampires and doesn't see anything wrong with it. Yes, this is fiction so it shouldn't annoy me, but I see it as discriminating against someone because of their race, sexuality, disability etc

TAKEN BY THE OTHERS should be a fast read, but it took me a week to finish as I could only force myself to read two or three chapters at a time. The basic plot is a simple revenge driven storyline, that the author tries to pad out by tossing another love interest in

just doesn't gel for me; we're meant to see vampires as being evil, but we don't see anything to back these views up. And, to top it all off, we're meant to believe that Royce has fallen hard for Shiarra. I just can't see what the author thinks I should be seeing.

It's actually a shame, as the author can write, and she has a few good ideas and solid secondary characters, so I have no idea how she has managed to come up with such a unlikeable heroine, who I want to see fail; e.g. during a scene where Shiarra's running from some bad guys, I was hoping that they'd catch her. And hurt her. A lot. (less)

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Aug 01, 2011 Paranormal Haven rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviews-by-beth-guest-reviewer

In this New York there are Others, and humans. The Others are vamps, weres, mages and some other strange critters like elves. The vamps, weres and mages have made the mortal world aware of their existence. This springs up anti-other groups like the White Hats. I do recommend reading the first book. The second book continues to build on Shiarra’s relationships.

Last time we left Shiarra she had just saved Weres and a super old vamp from a powerful charm. This time she is contacted by the White Hat...more In this New York there are Others, and humans. The Others are vamps, weres, mages and some other strange critters like elves. The vamps, weres and mages have made the mortal world aware of their existence. This springs up anti-other groups like the White Hats. I do recommend reading the first book. The second book continues to build on Shiarra’s relationships.

Last time we left Shiarra she had just saved Weres and a super old vamp from a powerful charm. This time she is contacted by the White Hats. They really want her to join them, and be a hunter. Shiarra doesn’t want anything to do with the Others, other than her boyfriend Chaz. The leader of the White Hats tells Shiarra a vamp named Max is in town. Shiarra ends up calling the eldest, sexy, in-charge-of-a-lot-of-New York, vampire Royce. She has been trying to avoid him, but if there is a vamp after her, he will know what to do.

Royce is in a lot of this book. I think he is a little misunderstood by Shiarra who is terrified of vampires. I don’t blame her. They are kind of creepy in this world, even if Royce is pretty hot. We see Royce from Shiarra’s eyes, and she describes him as cunning. Everything he does is a play to get her under his thumb, but I stopped believing this somewhere in the story. Instead I came to the belief he cared about her.

Max, the super evil elder vampire is also a major character. He does evil very well. In fact his reasons for it were believable. He kidnaps Shiarra, and tells her that he is going to kill her in front of Royce. To him it is the perfect revenge. Instead of Royce, or even her were boyfriend, the White Hats storm in to save her.

Is it strange that whenever they are in big groups I see them all wearing white cowboy hats and scarves over their faces? No? It could just be the name I guess.

So now it is time for a show down with Royce and Max. This introduces two new characters, the elf, and Mouse. I wasn’t that impressed with the elf. She is pretty, and was at one time Royce’s girlfriend. We don’t know much more about her, and I wasn’t all that interested. It was Mouse I want to know more about. Mouse is a short, mute vampire, who stays with Royce’s people. She was actually the only female vampire there. I was left with a lot of questions about her, and I really hope the books after this have more Mouse. A few more What Hats are introduced, but I was less interested in them.

I had a few complaints. I sometimes have an issue with Shiarra’s point of view. She repeats her ideas about everyone else. I also stopped believing in some of the things she tells us. I was frustrated with the huge battle. She has a bad habit of stopping what she is doing to look around. This threw me out once or twice. In battle there would be too much chaos. Paying attention to what everyone else is doing would get you killed.

This installment was fast paced. Better than the last one. I hope the next one can top it. It came with a large amount of back story about Royce. The story, and over all adventure was a lot of fun. I still think the battles could be fixed, and a lot of Shiarra’s point of view could be worked on. Max’s revenge plot was a great classic bad guy scheme. I really feel like this series is still building, and look forward to see what comes next.
-Beth (Guest Reviewer)(less)

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Jul 15, 2011 Sara rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 4-stars

Plot: 4 Stars
This is one of the few novels I've read that has included a vampire-biting scene that was truly scary and definitely not sexual in any way. That scene reinforced my love for this series because the vampires are evil and scary, and I love that. As the title suggests, Shia is taken (or kidnapped) by some of the others in New York. While kidnapping is normally a plot point that I find a bit boring, the author definitely made it interesting and necessary to the plot. All in all, Shia's...more Plot: 4 Stars
This is one of the few novels I've read that has included a vampire-biting scene that was truly scary and definitely not sexual in any way. That scene reinforced my love for this series because the vampires are evil and scary, and I love that. As the title suggests, Shia is taken (or kidnapped) by some of the others in New York. While kidnapping is normally a plot point that I find a bit boring, the author definitely made it interesting and necessary to the plot. All in all, Shia's crazy adventure back into the world of the others was a roller coaster of twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. I just wish there could've been a bit more private investigating. Her job was such an important part of Shia's character in book one, so I expected more than just a couple passing comment to her job.

Pace: 4.5 Stars
This novel flew by. I just couldn't put it down at times. And it read even smoother than book one. Every scene had a purpose, even if that purpose wasn't totally explained until the end of the book. But I love when a book wraps up so nicely. There wasn't a cliffhanger, but there was just enough at the end to leave me jumping up and down for the next novel. I can't wait to see what's in store for Shia on her next adventure.

Characters: 4 Stars
Shia has definitely grown since the last novel, and grew quite a bit in this one as well. I have really enjoyed watching the evolution of her character. Although Royce didn't seem to be around quite as much as the last book, we also learned more about him (and I like him a bit more now). He was still manipulative at times, but he also seemed to have Shia's best interest in mind, even if it didn't seem like it at first. Max was a great villian because he was truly frightening and his moves were unexpected throughout the whole book. I wish we could've seen more of Sarah, Arnold, and Chaz. I really missed Arnold's humor and mage powers that helped Shia so much in book one. But I loved Mouse! She was such a strong little vampire, and a very interesting character. I really, really, really hope she's in the next book. It was also nice to see a few more of the White Hats and learn more about them.

Cover: 3 Stars
This cover's model was all sorts of wrong. The cover model looked like she had aged at least five years from the last novel, although barely a year had gone by. Plus, I'm not even sure if they used the same model. And her outfit was just wrong. She should've been wearing the trench coat from the first cover again, since Shia once again wears it to hide her crazy stash of weapons. Plus, she shouldn't have so much skin showing because she does not want the vampires to bite. Cover model aside, the it wasn't that bad of a cover. Purple is a color that doesn't seem as widely used in the genre as blues/greens and reds/oranges are, but it works very well against the model's red hair. And I really enjoyed the large moon in the background, especially considering most of the novel took place at night.

Overall: 4 Stars

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book for review from the author. (less)

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May 27, 2011 Melliane rated it 5 of 5 stars

Alors tout d'abord il ne faut pas prendre en compte cette couverture pas géniale il faut le dire car l'histoire est vraiment bien.

J'ai adoré ce second tome ! Bon j'aurais du mal à le comparer au premier alors que je ne m'en rappelle que vraiment de petites bribes. (vive ma mémoire de poisson rouge)
En tout cas je n'ai pas lâché l'histoire une seule seconde, l'action est présente tout le long et on n'a pas le temps de s'ennuyer une seule seconde.

Shiarra qui voulait une vie simple, sans problèmes e...more

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Mar 14, 2011 Lady Rogue rated it 4 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Shia had sworn off anything Others! Well ...except her werewolf boyfriend, Chaz. But, she definitely drew the line at getting involved with thier politics, manipulations, and games. So, you can imagine her pissed off attitude when a vengeful big bad vampire named Max Carlyle came to town hellbent on giving Shia a little payback revenge. One of the things I loved most about Shia's character was her vulnerability. I found it interesting how she always managed to find ways out of some the crappy pr...more Shia had sworn off anything Others! Well ...except her werewolf boyfriend, Chaz. But, she definitely drew the line at getting involved with thier politics, manipulations, and games. So, you can imagine her pissed off attitude when a vengeful big bad vampire named Max Carlyle came to town hellbent on giving Shia a little payback revenge. One of the things I loved most about Shia's character was her vulnerability. I found it interesting how she always managed to find ways out of some the crappy predicaments she often found herself in. Like most heroines, Shia was resourceful. Although, she often found herself suffering both physically and at times mentally, she would eventually kick ass.I thought that was what made her a compelling and likable character. She tried the best she could under the circumstances given to her.

If the truth be told, I couldn't decide if I liked Royce or if I thought he was a prick. I know most vampires have thier own agendas, but he was a slick one. I kept wondering.."Is he playing games with Shia emotions or does he have true feelings for her?". Unlike the previous book, there was real love/ hate chemistry going on between Royce and Shia. The sexual tension between them was thick. That being said, I couldn't decide if I liked the submissiveness that Chaz displayed in this book or if I felt sorry for him. Instead of being the alpha he was suppose to be, he just stood by and watch her feelings for Royce grow. It was easy to believe how Shia would be confused about her feelings..I know I was. I believe the author was intentionally trying to be tricksy...I mean seriously, it was soooo obvious the author wanted to screw with our heads and keep us guessing about them both.

I was happy to learn a little bit more about Royce's character, about his sire and past indiscretions. I wonder if some of the ghost of his past will appear in future books. I think it would be interesting to find out. I was also happy to see her sentient belt was still hanging around. There was actually a possible clue or perhaps a implication of Fae ancestry, then again, I couldn't figure out if the hint was directed towards the belt or Shia herself? Hell if I know! I hope to continue learning more about it as the series progresses and that the truth will eventually be revealed. The White Hats had a more prominent role in this book as well. I saw more of Jack and met a new character, Devon. Some of the other characters introduced to were Dawn, ex runway model and Royce's current bed bitch with Fae in her blood. Another female vampire, named Mouse, who was much more likable. Peter, one of Max's dumb ass minions..and I do mean dumb...and John, Royce's second in command.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. Like the previous book, Hunted By The Others, I loved the world the author created. I also love that she didn't romanticize every vampire or make every bite orgasmic.I felt the author made the protagonist realistic and very human-like in her reactions to some of the dangers she faced. This was much darker story than the previous book and much more compelling. The plot was rich with betrayals, manipulations, revenge, kidnappings, and most definitely romantic tensions. I was completely taken by Taken By The Others.

(less)

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Jan 13, 2011 Sharon rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, paranormal-fantasy

A 100's of year old grudge against Royce, puts Shiarra in the firing line. Max an advaserial powerful vamp, Jack & his vigilente Whitehats, and men in black suits, they all have their reasons for procurng Shiarra. but at least she has a creepy sentient belt, Chaz her werewolf & powerful vamp Royce (if she will let him) on her side. Won't go anymore into the plot because it will just spoil the story, but it is a must read.
There's no let up from start to finish, I must admit that this is...more

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Feb 15, 2013 Veronica G. rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: female-protagonist, urban-fantasy, vampires, werewolves

After finishing the second book in this series I'm still on the fence about the heroine, Shiarra. She's mostly likeable except for when she's falling back on stereotypes about the Others. Considering that she's dating a werewolf and one of her friends (who is also her BFF's boyfriend) is a mage, one would think that she'd be developing a more open mind about things. At times that seems to be the case but then she'll turn right around and refer to the Others as monsters, lumping all Others into t...more

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Dec 30, 2010 Jessica rated it 5 of 5 stars

I read Jess Haines' debut Hunted by the Others a few months ago and immediately fell into her world that seems so much like ours but in the distant (maybe not so distant, lol!) future. Taken by the Others picks up a few months later and Shiarra's life is just starting to get to somewhat normal when more trouble strikes, for any book wouldn't be interesting if there wasn't a whole mess of trouble!

Shiarra finds herself neck deep in trouble when another vampire, Max Carlyle rolls into town and want...more I read Jess Haines' debut Hunted by the Others a few months ago and immediately fell into her world that seems so much like ours but in the distant (maybe not so distant, lol!) future. Taken by the Others picks up a few months later and Shiarra's life is just starting to get to somewhat normal when more trouble strikes, for any book wouldn't be interesting if there wasn't a whole mess of trouble!

Shiarra finds herself neck deep in trouble when another vampire, Max Carlyle rolls into town and wants revenge against Royce for past injustices. And he plans to take out his revenge by using Shiarra.

The action picks up rather quickly I think, it's a gradual pace but still written well so we are not immediately thrust into the thick of things. It is sort of like moving from point A to point B but at a steady yet fast pace. I have become really taken with Haines' world of vampires, Weres, and mages, for it seems more lifelike in some ways. How there is a sense of prejudice and injustice to the supernaturals. Humans either fear/hate them or some are totally enamored by them. You don't usually see this too much, there's either a hate or love for vamps and whatnot right away in a book--of course this is just something I noticed in the books I read, and I don't read absolutely everything so don't think I'm preaching that this is the "only" book that does this.

Basically I just like the confliction Shiarra has for the supernaturals. She has always kind of feared and disliked them, but her opinions tend to change as the novels proceed. Just a little, step by step and I like that she can overcome her prejudice at times with the right supernaturals. Of course since the bad guy is usually a supernatural as well it still makes things difficult.

The romance in the book wasn't really noticeable either, nothing intense. There are "moments" I guess you can say that are somewhat romantic but not the full thing, for as is noted by Shiarra, she and Chaz can't do "the nasty" unless she signs a contract. So things between them are somewhat platonic...for the meantime at least. Although, Royce is still another thing entirely. As we learned at the end of Hunted by the Others, but I won't touch on that matter here.

The ending was good too, it wrapped things up without much of a cliffhanger. More of just a wondering what's next. And there is a sneak peek at the next novel Deceived by the Others which releases July 5, 2011, but I had to pass on reading it for sneak peeks are just plain evil to me!

Overall I give the book 5/5 stars and looking forward to the next!

This title releases on January 4, 2011--so really not a long wait at all!(less)

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Jul 25, 2011 Kara-karina rated it 5 of 5 stars

4.5/5
These series are really good (so I've said already). I still can't help but have a feeling that I'm reading early Anita Blake which for me is a high praise. I loved the first LKH books up to and including Obsidian Butterfly.

The difference between Shia and Anita is that Shia is not tough, she is weak and awfully scared of what can happen most of the time, but she still perseveres. I admire that.

There are some new players in this book, and some very curious alliances. I loved how Shia made De...more

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Apr 26, 2013 Jenika Ioffreda rated it 1 of 5 stars

Didn't like Sharra ( the heroine), the only reason why I kept reading was out of hope it would get better. Sadly it didn't. After 30 pages I started jumping paragraphs trying to go faster towards the ending. I really didn't like the narrow mind of Sharra and her way to see people (human and not) as kind of toys without any feelings.
Already from the start I didn't like her attitude of "everything with fangs or furry is bad... oh, my boyfriend is actually a werewolf but I can use him to protect m...more

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Oct 03, 2010 Nikki-ann rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-won

Shiarra Waynest is a New York P.I. who’s biggest problem used to be keeping her business afloat. These days her problems are much, much bigger… Two seductive and dangerous vampires who have been enemies for centuries now both want Shia. One wants to kill her, while the other’s interest is a lot more personal. Throw in Shia’s werewolf boyfriend and the White Hats (a powerful group of anti-Others), and there’s a recipe for trouble!

Taken by the Others is the 2nd book in the H&W Investigations s...more Shiarra Waynest is a New York P.I. who’s biggest problem used to be keeping her business afloat. These days her problems are much, much bigger… Two seductive and dangerous vampires who have been enemies for centuries now both want Shia. One wants to kill her, while the other’s interest is a lot more personal. Throw in Shia’s werewolf boyfriend and the White Hats (a powerful group of anti-Others), and there’s a recipe for trouble!

Taken by the Others is the 2nd book in the H&W Investigations series and it’s due out for release in January 2011. I won my copy in a competition run by the author, Jess.

The first book in the series is called Hunted by the Others.

Once again, Taken by the Others is written from Shia’s perspective. We’re drawn into her thoughts and feelings, as well as the ones appearing in her head that aren’t her own! Shia is human, but she’s increasingly surrounded by Others (vampires, werewolves, mages etc) who do not get along. When Max turns up, her world is once again turned upside down. He’s a powerful elder vampire out for revenge and somehow Shia finds herself in the middle of it all, without much choice. We meet up with characters from the previous book as well as new ones, one or two of whom Shia wishes she’d never set eyes on (literally!).

I enjoyed Taken by the Others just as much as I’d enjoyed Hunted by the Others, if not a bit more actually! The pace is fast and there’s never a dull moment (despite Shia wishing her life could be just that bit simpler!). It’s most definitely a page turner and once again I found myself immersed in Shia’s story and her battle to stay alive. There were times while reading the book when I actually took a sharp intake or breath due to being surprised or shocked, other times I just wanted to shout “Nooo!”. Yes, it really is that good a book!

Having read my advanced copy of Taken by the Others, I’m all ready for book 3 of the series… but as Taken by the Others hasn’t yet been released and the next book due in July 2011, I’ll certainly have quite a while to wait. However, at the end of Taken by the Others Jess Haines has given us a little sneak peek of the next book… and now I REALLY want to read the next book!(less)

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Jan 24, 2011 Stacy rated it 4 of 5 stars

TAKEN BY THE OTHERS is jam packed full of action. Shia seriously just rocks, I love her character. The tension between Royce and Shia is killing me (in a good way), I just cant wait to see what comes of these two. Will they become friends? More than friends? I'm seriously dying to find out what comes next with them. I have to say I'm kind of disappointed in Chaz at the end, you think even though he was hurting he might be a tad bit more supportive, its not like Shia has asked to be in any of the...more

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Oct 12, 2012 Ferdy rated it 2 of 5 stars

Spoilers

The storyline was so boring. Shia gets kidnapped by Max - a vampire who hates Royce, and then she just frets and moans about everything and has to be saved by a bunch of other people.

-Shia was pushed around and manipulated by everyone — she was so powerless. I hate reading about heroines that have no control of their own lives and that have to rely on their love interests to save them. I would have preferred if Shia had been able to fight without having to beg help from a ton of other p...more Spoilers

The storyline was so boring. Shia gets kidnapped by Max - a vampire who hates Royce, and then she just frets and moans about everything and has to be saved by a bunch of other people.

-Shia was pushed around and manipulated by everyone — she was so powerless. I hate reading about heroines that have no control of their own lives and that have to rely on their love interests to save them. I would have preferred if Shia had been able to fight without having to beg help from a ton of other people.

-I was baffled as to why Shia was taken by Max - it made no sense whatsoever that Max kidnapped her because he wanted to hurt Royce. Sure Royce wants Shia, but he's like that with loads of other girls — there was nothing at all to suggest that he was in love with Shia or that she was different to him. If Max really wanted revenge, then he should have kidnapped Dawn, the woman Royce dated for months and the woman Royce seemed to have a genuine feelings for. It was just bullshit that Shia was kidnapped.

-Shia's love interests, Chaz and Royce were just awful. It's obvious that everyone's meant to like Royce more, but he's rubbish. Just because he's slightly better than Chaz doesn't magically make him a decent love interest. Royce was just a super slimy and manipulative douche. He was vile — all he did was act like a creepy freak around Shia. It's obvious that Royce doesn't love Shia, he's just hot for her because she doesn't want him and he sees her as a challenge. He was so fucking dumb — he repeatedly intimidated, controlled and scared Shia and then he wondered why she wasn't interested.
I don't know why so many readers were moaning about Shia not being grateful to Royce. Why would any girl be grateful to the guy that blackmailed her, put her in danger and ruined her life?? Shia didn't owe Royce anything — if it wasn't for him she wouldn't have needed rescuing in the first place.
Chaz was a whole other level of crap — he was hardly ever there for Shia, he could barely protect her and he was such a whiny bitch. I don't know why Chaz was being a dick to Shia at the end when she literally couldn't help feeling the way she did for Royce. He had no right to make her feel guilty and she was stupid blaming herself since her blood bond with Royce wasn't her fault.
Chaz and Royce were the worst things about the book.

-The world building wasn't believable, like the law that allows Others to have the power to kill or hurt any human that signs a contract with them. It was just bullshit that human law/government would be fine and dandy with Others being able to get away with murder just because some human agreed to date them or work with them.

A disappointing read overall — the main character was weak and useless, the plot was nonsensical, the side characters were flat, the romance was shit and the love interests made me sick.(less)

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Aug 16, 2011 Julie rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2011

Posted at http://yummymenandkickasschicks.com/?...

Taken by the Others is the second book in Jess Haines’ H&W Investigations series. No I did not read book one. I know, I know, so not like me! Well, there was a slight mix up and I got book two. But you know what? It turned out okay.

The book opens with Shiarra, our heroine, having to talk someone down who just happens to have a gun pointed to her head. Yeah. I have to tell you, with an opening like that, you know you are in for a fast paced re...more Posted at http://yummymenandkickasschicks.com/?...

Taken by the Others is the second book in Jess Haines’ H&W Investigations series. No I did not read book one. I know, I know, so not like me! Well, there was a slight mix up and I got book two. But you know what? It turned out okay.

The book opens with Shiarra, our heroine, having to talk someone down who just happens to have a gun pointed to her head. Yeah. I have to tell you, with an opening like that, you know you are in for a fast paced read.

I liked Shiarra even though I found that her fear of vampires and being bitten was a little bit much at times. Then again, that is her phobia and therefore she is allowed to be scared senseless I suppose. I found myself giggling at what she was saying and thinking through the book, and I always love when a character can make me giggle. She and the other characters in this book certainly kept me well entertained. I enjoyed seeing some of the White Hats (Other being hunters) learn that their perception of the Others was not quite accurate. I enjoyed reading Devon (he would make a great novella hero). And I really enjoyed Royce.

Alec Royce is a vampire. An old and powerful one. She is suave and charming, in his own way, and he (we think) has eyes for Shiarra. You can tell that he isn’t used to being told no or to being told to hold off, but he does his best for Shia. But man can you ever tell that it’s taking every ounce of restraint he owns! Shia wants nothing to do with Royce, not only because he is what she is most afraid of, but also because she has a pretty serious boyfriend in Chaz.

I didn’t get much of a feel for Chaz (and leader of one of the Werewolf packs in town). He isn’t in the book much and what we see of him well…let’s just say there isn’t much talking. And no I don’t mean because they are too busy doing the nasty – I mean because he’s a wolf and can’t talk.

The story itself was pretty good. A vampire wants an eye for an eye after what happened in book one and he seems to feel that Shiarra is that eye. So he tries to kidnap her. Sometimes he succeeds and sometimes he does not. But it does make for quite the ride.

Even though the end felt a tad rushed to me (bam your fighting, bam you’re gone, bam your lover is hurt, bam you run off), I enjoyed the pace of the rest of the book and the overall feel of it too. Interesting characters set in an interesting world. I really like the idea that vampires are restricted by law and that you have to have a legally bound contract before being turned or bled. Pretty neat.

I did not feel lost or confused at all while reading this book – seeing that I did not read book one. That said there were a few details that I was very curious about their origins. The belt for example. And how Shiarra met Royce. And how long has Shiarra been in a relationship with Chaz. And why is Shiarra so darned afraid of vampires?! These are all things I would assume are explained in the first book. And although I didn’t feel lost of confused, I did find myself wanting to learn more.

Am I planning on reading the next book? Eventually for sure, yes. I am very curious to see where things go with Shiarra and Chaz. And let’s not forget Royce. No, let’s not forget Royce.

3.5 stars(less)

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Nov 01, 2012 Jo rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy

Taken by the Others is the second book in Jess Haines's fabulous Urban Fantasy series. As I said in my review of the first book (Hunted by the Others), this series is not at all what I was expecting -- it's far, far better.

The world of The Others is so authentic, it's hard to believe Haines doesn't actually visit it on a regular basis. From the Weres to the Vamps to the various other, uh... Others that populate the world, all the way through to the human laws and reactions to them, the world is...more Taken by the Others is the second book in Jess Haines's fabulous Urban Fantasy series. As I said in my review of the first book (Hunted by the Others), this series is not at all what I was expecting -- it's far, far better.

The world of The Others is so authentic, it's hard to believe Haines doesn't actually visit it on a regular basis. From the Weres to the Vamps to the various other, uh... Others that populate the world, all the way through to the human laws and reactions to them, the world is as real as it comes.

In this book, Shia is again thrust unwillingly into a situation where she must fight the Others. The plot revolves around the fall-out of the finale of HBTO. I really enjoyed that continuity, and the sense that everything that happens in this world has far reaching consequences. (You know, just like in real life.)

Shia is targeted by an ancient vampire and forced to ally herself with Alec Royce if she's to have any chance of survival. As in the previous book, Royce was a vampire-lover's dream. Smart, sauve, sexy, and oh-so dangerous and unpredictable. I loved every moment I spent in his company. It was also great to have the chance to experience more of his inner life and to learn about his history.

Chaz (the Werewolf) and Jack (the psycho human White Hat) both make appearances, and Shia makes herself some new friends and enemies. I also loved the way the finale of this book felt complete, but allows plenty of room for Shia's decisions to come back to bite her later. ("Bite" her? Get it?)

My only disappointment was that Arnold didn't show up other than as a voice on the other end of the phone. I loved Arnold in HBTO, and hope he makes a reappearance in the next book of the series: Deceived by the Others.

I love Jess Haines's writing and the world she's created, and can't recommend it highly enough. If you like your vampires dark, brooding, and dangerous, and you like your Urban Fantasy fast-paced, funny and full of character, this is the series for you. I promise you won't regret it.(less)

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Apr 14, 2011 Roxanne rated it 4 of 5 stars

Liked it a lot, not quite as much as the 1st one though.

Shia showed some character growth but not enough in my opinion, she still really hates all others and constantly refers to her boyfriend as a monster behind his back. Chaz is also starting to annoy me, he's doing the alpha male thing and it's not cute. I also just want her to get it on with Royce :P luls. That poor guy just keeps getting shot down by Shia at every turn but he still jumps at the chance to help her. He doesn't get enough cre...more

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Jan 31, 2011 Melindeeloo rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, friendable

3 stars = I liked it. I actually probably wouldn't have purchased Taken by Others, if I had read the first book before buying this one - mostly because I had a hard time adjusting to the author's 'voice' in the first one - so I mostly skimmed that one - and ending up 'reading' both books in one day. But I did end up enjoying this second book, and will most likely continue on with the series. The world is interesting enough - a good combination of different supernaturals - and the heroine is pret...more

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Sep 16, 2010 Wicked Lil Pixie (Natasha) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shiarra is caught in between two vampires who have had a grudge for centuries, of course over a woman. Max and Royce each want her for different reasons, both of which may lead to her death. On top of that drama, Shiarra’s boyfriend Chaz isn’t happy with her relationship with Royce and makes his feelings known at the worst possible time.

Then there are the White Hats, a group of humans who have taken it amongst themselves to hunt vampires and they want Shia on their side. Little do they know, Shi...more Shiarra is caught in between two vampires who have had a grudge for centuries, of course over a woman. Max and Royce each want her for different reasons, both of which may lead to her death. On top of that drama, Shiarra’s boyfriend Chaz isn’t happy with her relationship with Royce and makes his feelings known at the worst possible time.

Then there are the White Hats, a group of humans who have taken it amongst themselves to hunt vampires and they want Shia on their side. Little do they know, Shia is beginning to realise everything isn’t as black and white as she first thought.

Taken by the Others is book two in the H & W Investigation Series. And I have to tell you all, Taken by the Others is non-stop action! Book two was so much better in terms of action then Hunted by Others was, it blew me away. There are so many parts in the book that left me going, whoa! But alas, I can’t ruin anything for you all so I will have to speak in generalities.

The plot was solid and a nicer pace was set in Taken by the Others, then in Hunted by the Others. I’ve read that a few of my fellow bloggers had issue, that it was more talk and set up then action but rest assured, there is action a plenty in this installment. I really didn’t want the book to end! I keep finding myself thinking about the book and I read it a few days ago! The wait for the third book in the series, is going to be a long one for me. The H & W Investigation Series has fast become one of my favorite new series.

I’m a big fan of Royce and Chaz, I was happy they were in the same room for a few parts in the book. Shia is wearing on me a bit, I’m glad she’s starting to see that not all vampires are bad, but I really think by the next book she needs to be over her prejudices. Especially when she has to work with Royce and even more so because there seems to be an attraction there.

If you’re looking for an Urban Fantasy that has more action then romance, or if you like to be on the edge of your seat reading…Taken by the Others is the book for you!

4.5/5 (less)

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Jul 28, 2011 Blodeuedd Finland rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy

I liked book 1 but I liked this one even more! And now I do not know where to start, but what else is new. The ones I like and can't put down, yes those are so hard to review.

My favourite new P.I. Shiarra has avoided Others after her last ordeal which nearly killed her. Well except for her werewolf boyfriend Chaz, whom she has not yet slept with since she does not want to sign a contract handing over her life. Of course life is not that easy and if it was we wouldn't get a story. There is a new...more

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Jan 26, 2011 Karyogini rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-on-2011

I really didn't want this book to end... so much so that I was delaying reading when I reached 65%... :( I was at war with myself. I really didn't like the cover of this book. I loved the cover of the first and the upcoming third... This particular one, not so much.

Anyway... I love how our protagonist really doesn't want to be caught up in the middle of this whole mess. I'm slightly annoyed with Jack... he's the reason why she went tumbling into this mess... It wouldn't have occurred to her to m...more I really didn't want this book to end... so much so that I was delaying reading when I reached 65%... :( I was at war with myself. I really didn't like the cover of this book. I loved the cover of the first and the upcoming third... This particular one, not so much.

Anyway... I love how our protagonist really doesn't want to be caught up in the middle of this whole mess. I'm slightly annoyed with Jack... he's the reason why she went tumbling into this mess... It wouldn't have occurred to her to make the call and get everything rolling. (view spoiler)

I don't know what's up with Chaz too. I know he's the pack Alpha... but it seems like he's hiding something from our girl... If i'm not mistaken (and since I'm jaded) I bet the pack is forcing him to find a different mate! Ha! (view spoiler)

I like the introduction of the new characters, well maybe not Max. He sounds immature and vague still. (view spoiler) I do like the new "3rd party" girl and the 2 hunters. Maybe they're the only ones our girl can really trust in the end (oh including her bestfriend of course).

(view spoiler)(less)

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Jun 17, 2011 CoffeeTimeRomance andMore rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy

Taken by the Others is an interesting read. There is so much going on within the novel that sometimes I felt slightly overwhelmed. I do like how Ms. Haines has the paranormal world out in the open, allowing for more interesting plotlines. The tension between Alec, Shia, and Chaz adds to the scenery, giving the characters more hurdles to jump over and adding depth to this novel. It will be interesting to see where the series is headed from here.

Danielle
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More

F...more

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Sep 02, 2011 Shelley aka Gizmo's Reviews rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011-releases, genre-urban-fantasy

*Rating* 3.0
*Genre*

*Review*

Jess Haines’ Taken by The Others is the second installment in the H&W Investigations series featuring Shiarra (Shia) Waynest as a private investigator who works and lives in New York City. She is one hundred percent human like her business partner Sara and was once fully entrenched in the Anti-Others feelings like her parents. Things have since changed since Hunted by The Others, the first book in the series.

Shia is still contractually obligated and bound by contra...more

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Mar 18, 2011 Scoot rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed

Shiarra has accepted that her life is going to be invaded a little by Others. Her best friend is dating a ‘Spark’ and she is dating a Werewolf, but she hopes to avoid any more trouble as much as possible. But for someone who has managed to catch the eye of not one but two old vampires (and not in a good way) that is tough to manage. Shia’s semi-normal life gets ripped apart, and when the going gets tough Shia has to turn in a direction she never hoped to lean – towards the help of Royce, one of...more

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Taken by the Others (H&W Investigations #2)

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