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Sasha Urban #5
Paranormal Misdirection
With my seer powers finally under my control, I'm ready to plunge into the unknown to find my father.
He may have abandoned me, but I’ll go to the ends of the Otherlands to save him from his torment.
Only problem? With unexpected allies and even more surprising enemies, this rescue mission might be more than I bargained for.
He may have abandoned me, but I’ll go to the ends of the Otherlands to save him from his torment.
Only problem? With unexpected allies and even more surprising enemies, this rescue mission might be more than I bargained for.
460 pages, Paperback
First published July 30, 2019
270 people are currently reading
331 people want to read
About the author
Dima Zales
112 books732 followersDima Zales is a full-time science fiction and fantasy author residing in Palm Coast, Florida. Prior to becoming a writer, he worked in the software development industry in New York as both a programmer and an executive. From high-frequency trading software for big banks to mobile apps for popular magazines, Dima has done it all. In 2013, he left the software industry in order to concentrate on his writing career.
Dima holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from NYU and a dual undergraduate degree in Computer Science / Psychology from Brooklyn College. He also has a number of hobbies and interests, the most unusual of which might be professional-level mentalism. He simulates mind-reading on stage and close-up, and has done shows for corporations, wealthy individuals, and friends.
He is also into healthy eating and fitness, so he should live long enough to finish all the book projects he starts. In fact, he very much hopes to catch the technological advancements that might let him live forever (biologically or otherwise). Aside from that, he also enjoys learning about current and future technologies that might enhance our lives, including artificial intelligence, biofeedback, brain-to-computer interfaces, and brain-enhancing implants.
In addition to his own works, Dima has collaborated on a number of romance novels with his wife, Anna Zaires. The Krinar Chronicles, an erotic science fiction series, has been a bestseller in its categories and has been recognized by the likes of Marie Claire and Woman’s Day. If you like erotic romance with a unique plot, please feel free to check it out, especially since the first book in the series (Close Liaisons) is available for free everywhere. Keep in mind, though, Dima Zales's books are going to be much more PG 13 . . . at least that’s the plan for now.
Anna Zaires is the love of his life and a huge inspiration in every aspect of his writing. She definitely adds her magic touch to anything Dima creates, and the books would not be the same without her. Dima’s fans are strongly encouraged to learn more about Anna and her work at http://www.annazaires.com/
Dima holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from NYU and a dual undergraduate degree in Computer Science / Psychology from Brooklyn College. He also has a number of hobbies and interests, the most unusual of which might be professional-level mentalism. He simulates mind-reading on stage and close-up, and has done shows for corporations, wealthy individuals, and friends.
He is also into healthy eating and fitness, so he should live long enough to finish all the book projects he starts. In fact, he very much hopes to catch the technological advancements that might let him live forever (biologically or otherwise). Aside from that, he also enjoys learning about current and future technologies that might enhance our lives, including artificial intelligence, biofeedback, brain-to-computer interfaces, and brain-enhancing implants.
In addition to his own works, Dima has collaborated on a number of romance novels with his wife, Anna Zaires. The Krinar Chronicles, an erotic science fiction series, has been a bestseller in its categories and has been recognized by the likes of Marie Claire and Woman’s Day. If you like erotic romance with a unique plot, please feel free to check it out, especially since the first book in the series (Close Liaisons) is available for free everywhere. Keep in mind, though, Dima Zales's books are going to be much more PG 13 . . . at least that’s the plan for now.
Anna Zaires is the love of his life and a huge inspiration in every aspect of his writing. She definitely adds her magic touch to anything Dima creates, and the books would not be the same without her. Dima’s fans are strongly encouraged to learn more about Anna and her work at http://www.annazaires.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
March 16, 2020
Paranormal Misdirection
Sasha Urban Series, Book 5
By: Dima Zales, Anna Zaires
Narrated by: Emily Durante
This book has Sasha on a mission to find her birth dad. Of course that is not an easy trip. Also we find out Nero's power. Things get crazy and dangerous!
Narration is great as usual.
Sasha Urban Series, Book 5
By: Dima Zales, Anna Zaires
Narrated by: Emily Durante
This book has Sasha on a mission to find her birth dad. Of course that is not an easy trip. Also we find out Nero's power. Things get crazy and dangerous!
Narration is great as usual.
April 9, 2020
4.5/5
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I was really looking forward to getting into the story, especially with the final revelation of the previous volume.
Our heroine won’t have time to breathe in this novel. Between discoveries, plots, assassination attempts and the discovery of new worlds, our heroine and her friends will really have many things to do! I don’t want to say more so as not to spoil the reading, but I can tell you that I had a great time!
And then… AAAAh this novel! So many revelations! I loved it! Yes, because we’re finally discovering what Nero really is and I admit that I didn’t expect that! The relationship they have is also evolving. We discover Sasha’s father, but also some information about her mother and finally we better understand Darian’s plans. Yes, do you see that? A lot of things! In addition to that, we learn a little bit more about Nero’s past and we know that it will now impact the rest of the story as well.
I am really happy to see how things have evolved in this novel and I am very curious to read on to find out what the author will propose to us!
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I was really looking forward to getting into the story, especially with the final revelation of the previous volume.
Our heroine won’t have time to breathe in this novel. Between discoveries, plots, assassination attempts and the discovery of new worlds, our heroine and her friends will really have many things to do! I don’t want to say more so as not to spoil the reading, but I can tell you that I had a great time!
And then… AAAAh this novel! So many revelations! I loved it! Yes, because we’re finally discovering what Nero really is and I admit that I didn’t expect that! The relationship they have is also evolving. We discover Sasha’s father, but also some information about her mother and finally we better understand Darian’s plans. Yes, do you see that? A lot of things! In addition to that, we learn a little bit more about Nero’s past and we know that it will now impact the rest of the story as well.
I am really happy to see how things have evolved in this novel and I am very curious to read on to find out what the author will propose to us!
May 13, 2020
Recensione in ANTEPRIMA
.
Cassandra Gold - per RFS
.
Care Fenici, non so descrivervi l’emozione, nell’avere tra le mani questo quinto volume del ciclo di Sasha Urban. Le sue avventure sono veramente incredibili e la storia d’amore tra lei e Nero diventa sempre più intrigante. Ma cominciamo dall’inizio.
Scusate l’entusiasmo ma era tanto che una serie non mi prendeva così, direi dai tempi in cui cominciai a leggere i libri della Hamilton.
Comunque, dov’eravamo rimaste…
Sasha decide, alla fine, di andare a cercare suo padre. Non importa le difficoltà, non importa se dovrà attraversare l’intero Universo conosciuto o non. Lei è più che determinata a portare avanti i suoi propositi, anche se questi condurranno lei e i suoi amici ad affrontare le creature più pericolose del creato.
Il nostro gruppo di esploratori si sta preparando quindi ad attraversare i portali tracciati sulla mappa trovata da Sasha nell’ufficio di Nero. Ovviamente la veggente deve prendere le sue precauzioni. Se il suo Mentore sapesse della sua piccola gita, è ben cosciente che finirebbe inesorabilmente sottochiave. Presi i suoi provvedimenti comincia la sua ricerca con l’aiuto di una nuova conoscenza, una gnoma contattata da Felix esperta in tecnologia. Anche Ariel si unisce al gruppo con l’intenzione d’aiutare la sua amica. Questo viaggio porterà la protagonista a conoscere forse una verità più profonda di quella che aveva supposto. Capisce quindi la ragione delle azioni di suo padre e la natura delle sue origini. Non sempre sapere la verità porta alla felicità e Sasha, in questo caso, lo apprende a sue spese. Intanto la storia con Nero si evolve; il dipanarsi degli eventi portano a delle rivelazioni sconcertanti sulle origini del suo capo, così la ragazza comprende qualcosa di più su di lui. Inevitabilmente i loro sentimenti sembrano crescere portando…
Si lo so, sono cattiva, ma sarei ancora più crudele se vi spoilerassi il seguito che, credetemi, vale veramente la pena di leggerlo da soli. E ora sono qui con il pc tra le mani e una voglia matta di avere già il sesto volume a disposizione.
Dalla trama ben strutturata e dalla scrittura fluida e dinamica, la storia mantiene un suo perfetto equilibrio dosando suspense e colpi di scena, sentimento e passione. Dima Zales è come al solito sinonimo di qualità e continua a non deludere i suoi ansiosi lettori, in attesa dei suoi scritti.
Ho una vera passione per il personaggio di Nero Gori, non mi stancherò mai di ripeterlo. Un personaggio misterioso e all’apparenza crudele, che in questa parte della storia, ci regalerà finalmente qualcosa sul suo passato. Vogliamo sapere di più, non ci lasciare così! Da brava Fenice golosa, sono al settimo cielo per gli scoop concessi dall’autore, ma non mi accontento, sperando di sapere qualcosa di più nel prossimo libro. Da segnalare che, in questa parte della storia, gli equilibri verranno un po’ cambiati. Amici diventeranno nemici e viceversa. Come nel mazzo di Sasha, si rimescoleranno un po’ le carte, anche se in questo caso, la nostra illusionista farà un po’ fatica a controllare il trucco. Non può essere sempre tutto facile no? Ma Sasha ha sempre qualche asso nella manica e non mancherà di lasciarci di stucco.
Consiglio questo libro a una fascia d’età dai quattordici anni in su.
Coraggiose Fenici, tuffatevi insieme a me nella lettura delle avventure dell’intrepida Sasha Urban.
.
Cassandra Gold - per RFS
.
Care Fenici, non so descrivervi l’emozione, nell’avere tra le mani questo quinto volume del ciclo di Sasha Urban. Le sue avventure sono veramente incredibili e la storia d’amore tra lei e Nero diventa sempre più intrigante. Ma cominciamo dall’inizio.
Scusate l’entusiasmo ma era tanto che una serie non mi prendeva così, direi dai tempi in cui cominciai a leggere i libri della Hamilton.
Comunque, dov’eravamo rimaste…
Sasha decide, alla fine, di andare a cercare suo padre. Non importa le difficoltà, non importa se dovrà attraversare l’intero Universo conosciuto o non. Lei è più che determinata a portare avanti i suoi propositi, anche se questi condurranno lei e i suoi amici ad affrontare le creature più pericolose del creato.
Il nostro gruppo di esploratori si sta preparando quindi ad attraversare i portali tracciati sulla mappa trovata da Sasha nell’ufficio di Nero. Ovviamente la veggente deve prendere le sue precauzioni. Se il suo Mentore sapesse della sua piccola gita, è ben cosciente che finirebbe inesorabilmente sottochiave. Presi i suoi provvedimenti comincia la sua ricerca con l’aiuto di una nuova conoscenza, una gnoma contattata da Felix esperta in tecnologia. Anche Ariel si unisce al gruppo con l’intenzione d’aiutare la sua amica. Questo viaggio porterà la protagonista a conoscere forse una verità più profonda di quella che aveva supposto. Capisce quindi la ragione delle azioni di suo padre e la natura delle sue origini. Non sempre sapere la verità porta alla felicità e Sasha, in questo caso, lo apprende a sue spese. Intanto la storia con Nero si evolve; il dipanarsi degli eventi portano a delle rivelazioni sconcertanti sulle origini del suo capo, così la ragazza comprende qualcosa di più su di lui. Inevitabilmente i loro sentimenti sembrano crescere portando…
Si lo so, sono cattiva, ma sarei ancora più crudele se vi spoilerassi il seguito che, credetemi, vale veramente la pena di leggerlo da soli. E ora sono qui con il pc tra le mani e una voglia matta di avere già il sesto volume a disposizione.
Dalla trama ben strutturata e dalla scrittura fluida e dinamica, la storia mantiene un suo perfetto equilibrio dosando suspense e colpi di scena, sentimento e passione. Dima Zales è come al solito sinonimo di qualità e continua a non deludere i suoi ansiosi lettori, in attesa dei suoi scritti.
Ho una vera passione per il personaggio di Nero Gori, non mi stancherò mai di ripeterlo. Un personaggio misterioso e all’apparenza crudele, che in questa parte della storia, ci regalerà finalmente qualcosa sul suo passato. Vogliamo sapere di più, non ci lasciare così! Da brava Fenice golosa, sono al settimo cielo per gli scoop concessi dall’autore, ma non mi accontento, sperando di sapere qualcosa di più nel prossimo libro. Da segnalare che, in questa parte della storia, gli equilibri verranno un po’ cambiati. Amici diventeranno nemici e viceversa. Come nel mazzo di Sasha, si rimescoleranno un po’ le carte, anche se in questo caso, la nostra illusionista farà un po’ fatica a controllare il trucco. Non può essere sempre tutto facile no? Ma Sasha ha sempre qualche asso nella manica e non mancherà di lasciarci di stucco.
Consiglio questo libro a una fascia d’età dai quattordici anni in su.
Coraggiose Fenici, tuffatevi insieme a me nella lettura delle avventure dell’intrepida Sasha Urban.
February 15, 2021
Sasha Urban #5. Book four didn't leave any cliffhangers, but Sasha got the idea to find her father using the map of the Otherlands she found in Nero's safe. She starts by learning Russian using her seer powers. Also using her seer powers to see if Nero will help with her mission. Then there are more attacks on her life. Nero takes her to a fancy restaurant, Sasha has a premonition of a drive by shooting, on the way to and from Rose's funeral she sees someone with a bazooka and more.
Fast fun read. I love Zales style. The trip through the Otherlands seemed unnecessarily fraught with peril and improbable danger (there was even a mention of square-cube law). Once they made it through it was more peril, but on a more even pace. The resolution of that situation was very clever. On the way home with still a hundred pages to go must mean more danger. There was and another clever resolution. 4.9 stars.
The end was intriguing and definitely points to the direction of what is going to happen to start the next book. My guess is that Sasha and friends won't defeat this "villain," but instead they'll find common ground wanting to defeat Tartarus. It could be that this new threat meets the same fate as Baba Yaga and dies, but I'm sticking with common ground.
Fast fun read. I love Zales style. The trip through the Otherlands seemed unnecessarily fraught with peril and improbable danger (there was even a mention of square-cube law). Once they made it through it was more peril, but on a more even pace. The resolution of that situation was very clever. On the way home with still a hundred pages to go must mean more danger. There was and another clever resolution. 4.9 stars.
The end was intriguing and definitely points to the direction of what is going to happen to start the next book. My guess is that Sasha and friends won't defeat this "villain," but instead they'll find common ground wanting to defeat Tartarus. It could be that this new threat meets the same fate as Baba Yaga and dies, but I'm sticking with common ground.
August 2, 2024
In the fifth book in the Sasha Urban Series, Sasha finally, FINALLY has her seer powers MOSTLY under control! She also finally knows who her father it! The problem? He needs to be rescued. Also a seer, he is many, many dangerous portals away. Now they have to figure out how to get to him... without her boss/mentor/more??? finding out and locking her away for her protection. Talk about a dangerous, exciting mission. We've got portal hopping, an alternant reality that will finally give a glimpse at the upcoming big bad, and a very dangerous mission. I can't remember if this one ends with the big surprise as to who her mother is, or if it's the beginning of book six.
July 29, 2020
GREAT Story, but the character is KILLING ME!!
I would give this 4.5🌠 for the plot and action. I like the story, I really do, the whole series the world it's built in everything about it. But Sasha is driving me completely insane! She is so childish and bull-headed that it's making me not want to read the story. But the small anal retentive part of me when it comes to books and TV shows will not let me Not finish the series (although I have on VERY Few occasions when it was bad beyond what I could bear), so I will continue on! Everything has to be the way she says it or she freaks out and gets all judgmental and snappy, she comments about people invading her privacy, yet she does it to everyone else either by having a vision or spying through their personal records or computers!!! She wants people to answer her questions and demands But when someone asked her questions she doesn't like, she either takes it completely wrong or even when right, blows it and her reaction Completely out of the water!! If she was gonna snap at Rasputin and react so harshly to his question which in No way implied that her and Nero together were inappropriate, and act as if she doesn't wanna let him into her life or have any say WHY even bother to rescue him? I liked Itzel, and if it wasn't for the fact that Felix is into Maya (which due to their ages 23-9 & 17 I still find a bit off putting) I'd say he was protesting to much as young boys do when they like a girl, lol. I'm happy that Ariel is taking her rehab seriously and That kid also is trying to make a road of redemption although she did leave them high and dry for this mission. The action in this book was great as was the story development. It's funny how she told Nero in the last book that if she found out what he was she would keep it secret Yet at the very moment she has a vision of what Nero is she blurts out and tells everyone in the room, So much for being able to keep a secret! She's too overconfident and cocky in some manners which I guess we learned she gets from her mama. Giving the suspicious glimmer She's 2 overconfident and and coffee and some manners which I guess we learned she gets from her mama. Giving the suspicious glimmer she saw in Rasputin eye I hope he wasn't inadvertently involved in the airport fiasco (where we learn who the true bad guy is 😢😵 and who the unexpected hero 😈 was and their reward), guess this was an ok kill unlike the last book, which shows how stupid and backwards the Council's rules are!! LOVED the GoT reference to my girl and queen forever Daenerys/Khaleesi! 😍
*****Spoilers*******
I was able to parse out who I thought Sasha mother was a bit in the last book and Definitely in this book when the time difference was mentioned, the differences in the cages and the description of her mother's attributes were listed. I also wouldn't be shocked if it turns out Sasha will have multiple powers and may have already been using her probability skills within her seer skills!! And as Lucretia pointed out about her obsessive need to control everything and everyone (also another trait from her *lovely* mother 😉😑😒) she more than likely Won't tell Nero about her dying if she chooses him!! And how can she want to BE with a man and have so little faith in him? Does she really think Nero is the kind of person who would sleep with her If he just found out his wife (more than likely will be a sister or daughter) was still alive and he had every intention of going to save her?! Although they Do belong together at times given how both can be self-centered in their pursuits (He moved her out the way when she got tranq'd but didn't move Felix her Friend thus getting him stepped on by an orc??) And use others to their advantage.
I would give this 4.5🌠 for the plot and action. I like the story, I really do, the whole series the world it's built in everything about it. But Sasha is driving me completely insane! She is so childish and bull-headed that it's making me not want to read the story. But the small anal retentive part of me when it comes to books and TV shows will not let me Not finish the series (although I have on VERY Few occasions when it was bad beyond what I could bear), so I will continue on! Everything has to be the way she says it or she freaks out and gets all judgmental and snappy, she comments about people invading her privacy, yet she does it to everyone else either by having a vision or spying through their personal records or computers!!! She wants people to answer her questions and demands But when someone asked her questions she doesn't like, she either takes it completely wrong or even when right, blows it and her reaction Completely out of the water!! If she was gonna snap at Rasputin and react so harshly to his question which in No way implied that her and Nero together were inappropriate, and act as if she doesn't wanna let him into her life or have any say WHY even bother to rescue him? I liked Itzel, and if it wasn't for the fact that Felix is into Maya (which due to their ages 23-9 & 17 I still find a bit off putting) I'd say he was protesting to much as young boys do when they like a girl, lol. I'm happy that Ariel is taking her rehab seriously and That kid also is trying to make a road of redemption although she did leave them high and dry for this mission. The action in this book was great as was the story development. It's funny how she told Nero in the last book that if she found out what he was she would keep it secret Yet at the very moment she has a vision of what Nero is she blurts out and tells everyone in the room, So much for being able to keep a secret! She's too overconfident and cocky in some manners which I guess we learned she gets from her mama. Giving the suspicious glimmer She's 2 overconfident and and coffee and some manners which I guess we learned she gets from her mama. Giving the suspicious glimmer she saw in Rasputin eye I hope he wasn't inadvertently involved in the airport fiasco (where we learn who the true bad guy is 😢😵 and who the unexpected hero 😈 was and their reward), guess this was an ok kill unlike the last book, which shows how stupid and backwards the Council's rules are!! LOVED the GoT reference to my girl and queen forever Daenerys/Khaleesi! 😍
*****Spoilers*******
I was able to parse out who I thought Sasha mother was a bit in the last book and Definitely in this book when the time difference was mentioned, the differences in the cages and the description of her mother's attributes were listed. I also wouldn't be shocked if it turns out Sasha will have multiple powers and may have already been using her probability skills within her seer skills!! And as Lucretia pointed out about her obsessive need to control everything and everyone (also another trait from her *lovely* mother 😉😑😒) she more than likely Won't tell Nero about her dying if she chooses him!! And how can she want to BE with a man and have so little faith in him? Does she really think Nero is the kind of person who would sleep with her If he just found out his wife (more than likely will be a sister or daughter) was still alive and he had every intention of going to save her?! Although they Do belong together at times given how both can be self-centered in their pursuits (He moved her out the way when she got tranq'd but didn't move Felix her Friend thus getting him stepped on by an orc??) And use others to their advantage.
July 31, 2019
Nero’s true nature revealed in a spectacular way!
I have been a fan of this UF series set in New York since the first book, The Girl Who Sees, and it keeps getting better. Some of the earlier installments were accused of having too little forward movement in the overarching story arc, so that despite Sasha’s exciting adventures the series seemed kind of episodical, as Sasha didn’t seem to get anywhere in her quest to find her parents, but this has definitively changed. At the end of book #4, Sleight of Fantasy, Sasha finally finds out who her father is and what happened to him. Through her seer abilities she learns that he is held somewhere and being tortured. Predictably she determines to try to rescue her him. She enlists the help of some of her friends and a technologically gifted gnome, but in order to have a chance at succeeding, she has to evade her boss and mentor Nero, who seems to be uncannily able to foresee her movements. As dangerous as the mission to rescue her father might shape up to be, maybe it wouldn’t be the worst thing to leave town for a while as somebody has gone to great lengths to try to kill her, although Sasha doesn’t remember making any new enemies that would want her dead, in fact, she just negotiated a truce with a powerful Cognizant (magical being) who didn’t use to be well-disposed towards her.
Almost since the beginning of the series there has existed a smoldering tension between Sasha and her mentor Nero, but for all that their personal relationship, apart from a few meaningful moments, remained strangely distant, even though it has been obvious that there are felling on both sides. That changes with this installment. In the course of her mission to find and free her father, Sasha is in need of some rescuing herself and who other would show up than Nero. We also finally learn what type of Cognizant Nero is and his true nature is revealed in quite a spectacular fashion.
If I would criticize anything, then it is that Sasha’s actions often seem governed by impulse. She is rash and does not always consider all the consequences of her actions which leads to unnecessarily dire situations. But as she gets better at her seer abilities (to the point where she can put herself into a kind of trance and foresee all the different kinds of futures that her actions lead to), it becomes clear that knowing the future doesn’t make the decision process easier, but rather more difficult, as knowing the impact of each small variation in her behavior can affect the outcome, and not in a good way, adds a lot of pressure.
What I really like about this series is the type of different Cognizants/magical beings, many of whom are quite different from anything I read before. I am especially fascinated by the beings that have their roots in Russian folklore like the Baba Jaga, the Domovoi and the Bannik. And although all the allusions to (American) cultural artifacts such as stories, movies, tv-series and videogames may get on some readers’ nerves, they set my fan-girl heart aflutter and make my inner nerd screech in glee.
Although the book does not end in a cliffhanger as such, the final revelation is really a bombshell that I did not see coming. So once again I can’t wait for the next installment to hit bookstores!
I have been a fan of this UF series set in New York since the first book, The Girl Who Sees, and it keeps getting better. Some of the earlier installments were accused of having too little forward movement in the overarching story arc, so that despite Sasha’s exciting adventures the series seemed kind of episodical, as Sasha didn’t seem to get anywhere in her quest to find her parents, but this has definitively changed. At the end of book #4, Sleight of Fantasy, Sasha finally finds out who her father is and what happened to him. Through her seer abilities she learns that he is held somewhere and being tortured. Predictably she determines to try to rescue her him. She enlists the help of some of her friends and a technologically gifted gnome, but in order to have a chance at succeeding, she has to evade her boss and mentor Nero, who seems to be uncannily able to foresee her movements. As dangerous as the mission to rescue her father might shape up to be, maybe it wouldn’t be the worst thing to leave town for a while as somebody has gone to great lengths to try to kill her, although Sasha doesn’t remember making any new enemies that would want her dead, in fact, she just negotiated a truce with a powerful Cognizant (magical being) who didn’t use to be well-disposed towards her.
Almost since the beginning of the series there has existed a smoldering tension between Sasha and her mentor Nero, but for all that their personal relationship, apart from a few meaningful moments, remained strangely distant, even though it has been obvious that there are felling on both sides. That changes with this installment. In the course of her mission to find and free her father, Sasha is in need of some rescuing herself and who other would show up than Nero. We also finally learn what type of Cognizant Nero is and his true nature is revealed in quite a spectacular fashion.
If I would criticize anything, then it is that Sasha’s actions often seem governed by impulse. She is rash and does not always consider all the consequences of her actions which leads to unnecessarily dire situations. But as she gets better at her seer abilities (to the point where she can put herself into a kind of trance and foresee all the different kinds of futures that her actions lead to), it becomes clear that knowing the future doesn’t make the decision process easier, but rather more difficult, as knowing the impact of each small variation in her behavior can affect the outcome, and not in a good way, adds a lot of pressure.
What I really like about this series is the type of different Cognizants/magical beings, many of whom are quite different from anything I read before. I am especially fascinated by the beings that have their roots in Russian folklore like the Baba Jaga, the Domovoi and the Bannik. And although all the allusions to (American) cultural artifacts such as stories, movies, tv-series and videogames may get on some readers’ nerves, they set my fan-girl heart aflutter and make my inner nerd screech in glee.
Although the book does not end in a cliffhanger as such, the final revelation is really a bombshell that I did not see coming. So once again I can’t wait for the next installment to hit bookstores!
April 12, 2020
Notes:
This one pushed the balance of belief a little too much but I did enjoy a few of the reveals that happened.
This one pushed the balance of belief a little too much but I did enjoy a few of the reveals that happened.
August 15, 2020
3.5 stars
July 28, 2019
Brilliant Series... Different, Unpredictable and Exhilarating ! 5 STARS!!!
This is Book 5 of the Sasha Urban Series written by Dima Zales & Anna Zaires and I am just waiting for my heart to settle down and my hands to stop sweating so that I can write a worthy review of this book. From start to finish this is a non-stop action pack adventure including some really FUNNY moments, which were amazingly refreshing and great main and secondary characters. We see how much Sasha (the h of the story) has grown in all aspects of her life.. she is more assertive and confident than before, she has a better understanding of her seer abilities and finally makes a move on her mysterious and HOT boss Nero... There is a lot more interaction between Nero & Sasha (yummy) than in the previous books AND we get to see a lot of scenes that include the original gang...Sasha, Felix & Ariel... what an AMAZING series this has turned out to be. I HIGHLY recommend this series to anyone who likes an action pack, fantasy series, with a quirky, yet endearing heroine, a hot, arrogant H, unpredictable second characters and a story that will keep you guessing at every turn and until the very end. When is the next one coming out please?
This is Book 5 of the Sasha Urban Series written by Dima Zales & Anna Zaires and I am just waiting for my heart to settle down and my hands to stop sweating so that I can write a worthy review of this book. From start to finish this is a non-stop action pack adventure including some really FUNNY moments, which were amazingly refreshing and great main and secondary characters. We see how much Sasha (the h of the story) has grown in all aspects of her life.. she is more assertive and confident than before, she has a better understanding of her seer abilities and finally makes a move on her mysterious and HOT boss Nero... There is a lot more interaction between Nero & Sasha (yummy) than in the previous books AND we get to see a lot of scenes that include the original gang...Sasha, Felix & Ariel... what an AMAZING series this has turned out to be. I HIGHLY recommend this series to anyone who likes an action pack, fantasy series, with a quirky, yet endearing heroine, a hot, arrogant H, unpredictable second characters and a story that will keep you guessing at every turn and until the very end. When is the next one coming out please?
July 26, 2019
Sasha Urban returns! I was so excited to read this fifth book in the series (they must be read in order) as it has been one of the most entertaining series I have read in the last year. As usual, Sasha is a magnet for trouble and she doesn't hesitate to dive in to the most dangerous of situations for her loved ones. Her loyal friends are along for the ride, complete with the bits of humor I have come to expect woven into the action-packed story - frugal Fluffster is constantly a delight! I personally had the tiniest bit of impatience through some of the Otherlands section, but it was so minor it almost doesn't need to mentioned. Consistent with the entire series, the story is fast-paced with quick chapters that always have me saying "just one more" to myself when it is way past bedtime. The slow-burn romance continues to torture me oh so deliciously and I loved finally getting some answers about Nero. Also typical, the book ends on a hook perfect to set up the next book - it can't come soon enough for me!
4.5 Stars
4.5 Stars
January 11, 2020
In Book 5, Sasha finds out Nero's biggest secret and the first thing she does is blab about it to Felix and others around. She just can't keep her mouth shut. For me it's her worst quality.
Sasha also travels into another world to save someone. Now I'm all for saving the people who matter to you, but this chick decides to leave THE EARTH without telling others where she is going. Now does attempt to prepare herself for the journey, but it was a half-azzed attempt as she involved a guy her faints at the sight of blood and a dwarf who is scared of everything.
What redeems this installment is the action. Sasha fights. Sasha runs. Sasha saves lives. Sasha kills. Sasha gets the best kind of reward 😉.
Going into different worlds means that new characters are inevitably introduced. Some good and some bad, but all were needed if the story arc I think is coming is a definite.
Sasha also travels into another world to save someone. Now I'm all for saving the people who matter to you, but this chick decides to leave THE EARTH without telling others where she is going. Now does attempt to prepare herself for the journey, but it was a half-azzed attempt as she involved a guy her faints at the sight of blood and a dwarf who is scared of everything.
What redeems this installment is the action. Sasha fights. Sasha runs. Sasha saves lives. Sasha kills. Sasha gets the best kind of reward 😉.
Going into different worlds means that new characters are inevitably introduced. Some good and some bad, but all were needed if the story arc I think is coming is a definite.
August 3, 2019
What can one say about the fifth book in this series….It is AMAZING! It is not a standalone and the books must be read in order. From the beginning it is rife with action and adventure and it just never stops. Sasha has come into her own as she has grown confident in her own skin and her powers as a seer. She also finally decides to make a move on her boss. I do not want to give anything away as this is one series you should read for yourself. It is filled with wit, endearing secondary characters and another hook to keep readers clamoring for the next book and I am adding myself to that wait list. Hopefully it will not be too long.
I volunteered to read an advance copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
I volunteered to read an advance copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
August 12, 2019
Wow, another brilliant book!
So far I have loved every single book in this series. There's fantasy ,otherworlds, vampires, witches, seer's and various other creatures from mythology.
Sasha started out believing she was a human illusionist and is now a cognizant bound by the mandate. After finding out who her father is,she sets about a plan to rescue him by travelling through the gates and through many different, scary and life threatening worlds. But even on earth she's dodging bullets and fighting For her life. But she's getting better at seeing the future.
It was a thrilling book from start to finish. Can't wait to read book 6 in October.
So far I have loved every single book in this series. There's fantasy ,otherworlds, vampires, witches, seer's and various other creatures from mythology.
Sasha started out believing she was a human illusionist and is now a cognizant bound by the mandate. After finding out who her father is,she sets about a plan to rescue him by travelling through the gates and through many different, scary and life threatening worlds. But even on earth she's dodging bullets and fighting For her life. But she's getting better at seeing the future.
It was a thrilling book from start to finish. Can't wait to read book 6 in October.
January 5, 2020
I usually hate books where there’s some involvement with vampires or weird monsters, BUT Dima Zales has created such a wonderful and almost believable fantasy world that I just can’t get enough of this series! I’m devouring each book, I’m about to start with book 6 and already ordered book 7. Excellent immersive read.
October 3, 2019
too much time in headspace
I have enjoyed the series up until now but there were so many trips into headspace for the same vision over and over that it started getting old and confusing. This was especially true at the end of the book for me.
I have enjoyed the series up until now but there were so many trips into headspace for the same vision over and over that it started getting old and confusing. This was especially true at the end of the book for me.
February 1, 2024
FEINTE PARANORMALE (french edition) :
💜🤗Totalement addictif !
Sur son écran s’affichait un chemin à travers les Autremondes.
Sasha avait grand espoir de retrouver enfin son père biologique.
Accompagnée de son chinchilla Fluffster, elle n’avait plus qu’une idée en tête : sauver son père...
÷÷÷÷÷÷÷
ENFIN la suite !
Deux ans et demi d’attente pour accéder à la traduction de la suite des aventures de la jeune et attachante Sasha.
Et je n’ai pas été déçue !
Voilà une suite à la hauteur de mes attentes : mystère, suspense et action.
Encore deux tomes à traduire :
-Prophecy of Magic.
- Smoke, Vampires & Mirrors.
Vivement la suite ! Je recommande vivement !
######################
💜🤗Totally addictive!
On her screen a path through the Otherworlds was displayed.
Sasha had big hopes of finding finally her biological father.
Accompanied by her chinchilla Fluffster, she had only one idea in her head: saving her father...
÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷
FINALLY the sequel!
Two and a half years of waiting to access the translation of the continuation of the adventures of the young and endearing Sasha.
And I was not disappointed !
This is a sequel that meets my expectations: mystery, suspense and action.
Two more volumes to translate:
-Prophecy of Magic.
- Smoke, Vampires & Mirrors.
Looking forward to the sequel! I highly recommend !
💜🤗Totalement addictif !
Sur son écran s’affichait un chemin à travers les Autremondes.
Sasha avait grand espoir de retrouver enfin son père biologique.
Accompagnée de son chinchilla Fluffster, elle n’avait plus qu’une idée en tête : sauver son père...
÷÷÷÷÷÷÷
ENFIN la suite !
Deux ans et demi d’attente pour accéder à la traduction de la suite des aventures de la jeune et attachante Sasha.
Et je n’ai pas été déçue !
Voilà une suite à la hauteur de mes attentes : mystère, suspense et action.
Encore deux tomes à traduire :
-Prophecy of Magic.
- Smoke, Vampires & Mirrors.
Vivement la suite ! Je recommande vivement !
######################
💜🤗Totally addictive!
On her screen a path through the Otherworlds was displayed.
Sasha had big hopes of finding finally her biological father.
Accompanied by her chinchilla Fluffster, she had only one idea in her head: saving her father...
÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷
FINALLY the sequel!
Two and a half years of waiting to access the translation of the continuation of the adventures of the young and endearing Sasha.
And I was not disappointed !
This is a sequel that meets my expectations: mystery, suspense and action.
Two more volumes to translate:
-Prophecy of Magic.
- Smoke, Vampires & Mirrors.
Looking forward to the sequel! I highly recommend !
March 24, 2024
I think this author is trying to create a new genre, eyeball porn. Seriously, enough with the limbal rings.
I liked this book more than the previous couple of books in this series. I wish they would have better described the otherworlds. And Sasha spends entirely too much time in head space. It took several chapters to explain what happened in a single second. Does head space stop time? Or just speed up thought?
The relationship between Sasha and Nero is still very shallow and gross, but Nero does get more depth.
Why is it gross? The author again describes a painting of a much younger Sasha, with exaggerated physical attributes, that Nero painted. That means that as Nero watched Sasha grow up from the age of three, he became sexually attracted to her at a young age. Sasha knows this and is okay with it.
If I wrote a book about a man who watched a neighbor girl grow up, fantasizing about her and sexualizing her, the main character would be considered a pervert and creep. But here, that character is a hero. Instead of being creeper out by seeing the painting, Sasha is somehow flattered.
I liked this book more than the previous couple of books in this series. I wish they would have better described the otherworlds. And Sasha spends entirely too much time in head space. It took several chapters to explain what happened in a single second. Does head space stop time? Or just speed up thought?
The relationship between Sasha and Nero is still very shallow and gross, but Nero does get more depth.
Why is it gross? The author again describes a painting of a much younger Sasha, with exaggerated physical attributes, that Nero painted. That means that as Nero watched Sasha grow up from the age of three, he became sexually attracted to her at a young age. Sasha knows this and is okay with it.
If I wrote a book about a man who watched a neighbor girl grow up, fantasizing about her and sexualizing her, the main character would be considered a pervert and creep. But here, that character is a hero. Instead of being creeper out by seeing the painting, Sasha is somehow flattered.
August 8, 2019
I received a free copy to beta and then ARC read in exchange for my honest opinion.
4.5 stars!
I really enjoyed book 5! At first it felt a bit awkward, like someone else wrote the book or ot was being forced, but once it got going that feeling went away. Paranormal Misdirection felt a lot longer to me while reading (in a good way--like I had a full serving). I felt every emotion while reading book 5 in a way I didn't with 1-4. I might have shed a tear or two! Lot of answers, but still enough mystery left to keep me on the edge of my seat and ready for book 6! I enjoyed seeing Sasha's powers grow and her kicking some serious a$$ by the end. It was super cool to see a mention of pushers and readers in this series (from another series by Zales). We get to see more of the world's outside of Sasha's and it was very interesting! Also, THE HEAT IN THIS ONE. OH MY! AND you will finally learn who and what a few people are. ;)
4.5 stars!
I really enjoyed book 5! At first it felt a bit awkward, like someone else wrote the book or ot was being forced, but once it got going that feeling went away. Paranormal Misdirection felt a lot longer to me while reading (in a good way--like I had a full serving). I felt every emotion while reading book 5 in a way I didn't with 1-4. I might have shed a tear or two! Lot of answers, but still enough mystery left to keep me on the edge of my seat and ready for book 6! I enjoyed seeing Sasha's powers grow and her kicking some serious a$$ by the end. It was super cool to see a mention of pushers and readers in this series (from another series by Zales). We get to see more of the world's outside of Sasha's and it was very interesting! Also, THE HEAT IN THIS ONE. OH MY! AND you will finally learn who and what a few people are. ;)
January 2, 2020
Action packed book continued Sashas story
Lots of action and adventure. Fast paced story kept me engaged. This story focused on Sasha finding her biological father. She is going to attempt a rescue. There are other storylines intertwined but they take a backseat to the main thread. Vlad was mentioned but not a main character. Nero, Felix, Ariel and Fluffster all have significant presence. This story ends where the next book begins. I don't know exactly where it is heading, but there are many storylines which may be central to the series. Super enjoyable series should be read in order. Worth the time to read. Humor, adventure, romance and an interesting universe all work together to keep the story moving. The audible version is also available and the narrator does a good job. I have both kindle and audible in all the books available so far.
Lots of action and adventure. Fast paced story kept me engaged. This story focused on Sasha finding her biological father. She is going to attempt a rescue. There are other storylines intertwined but they take a backseat to the main thread. Vlad was mentioned but not a main character. Nero, Felix, Ariel and Fluffster all have significant presence. This story ends where the next book begins. I don't know exactly where it is heading, but there are many storylines which may be central to the series. Super enjoyable series should be read in order. Worth the time to read. Humor, adventure, romance and an interesting universe all work together to keep the story moving. The audible version is also available and the narrator does a good job. I have both kindle and audible in all the books available so far.
July 31, 2019
I loved this book. We get to see a lot of the same characters, as well as some interesting new ones (even if some are only briefly). We also get introduced to some new worlds. The pacing is the same fast way it usually is. It turns out there is more than one bad guy. Problem is, one of them seemed out of character for that person - and I don't mean like a well hidden secret. It just seemed out of place. The person that helps Sasha was a nice surprise. There was a nice wrap up at the end about other characters, so we're not left wondering what happened to them. Some questions were answered and some new ones were introduced, leaving me wondering what will happen next. I can't wait to find out. I am voluntarily reviewing this book, gifted to me by the author, with no obligation.
December 17, 2022
Nope, this was not as straightforward as I was hoping. There was again so much drag to get into the interesting part of the story. I feel like they could have made the series a book shorter and gotten rid of a lot of the random Hullabaloo. The suits and the random worlds and just so much extra did not help. Once you get into it, it gets interesting, but it always takes so long to get to the point of each book.
I am happy that they finally made some progress on the Nero front. I was very angry at Sasha when she found out what Nero was and immediately blabbed it to everyone despite her previous promise to keep it a secret.
The big reveal about her parentage was lacklustre it was a letdown it was too obvious.
I am happy that they finally made some progress on the Nero front. I was very angry at Sasha when she found out what Nero was and immediately blabbed it to everyone despite her previous promise to keep it a secret.
The big reveal about her parentage was lacklustre it was a letdown it was too obvious.
July 31, 2019
Sasha has her seer powers under control and she's ready to search for her father. She's determined to rescue him, even if that means putting her life in danger. Her friends are willing to help her, as always, but what about Nero, her mysterious boss? When her rescue mission proves more dangerous than she thought, she will find new unexpected allies!
Paranormal Misdirection is filled with adventure and humor! Sasha and Nero's chemistry is off the charts, and Sasha is more confident and independent! The world building is amazing and we learn more about the Otherlands and their inhabitants. I can't wait for more Sasha and Nero!
Paranormal Misdirection is filled with adventure and humor! Sasha and Nero's chemistry is off the charts, and Sasha is more confident and independent! The world building is amazing and we learn more about the Otherlands and their inhabitants. I can't wait for more Sasha and Nero!
November 6, 2021
Misadventures. Multiple Visions. Unexpected Surprise.
This fifth book continuation reveals a little more of Sasha’s search for her father, finding out what Nero is and if he really has any feelings for her and who is her mother? All these strange truths are revealed in Sasha’s determined and persistent goal to seek answers. She meets a gnome and encounters many characters that play a part in her journey. I enjoy how easy Sasha has gotten with using her craft through trial and errors yet still keeping the joy and love for her magic “effects”.
This fifth book continuation reveals a little more of Sasha’s search for her father, finding out what Nero is and if he really has any feelings for her and who is her mother? All these strange truths are revealed in Sasha’s determined and persistent goal to seek answers. She meets a gnome and encounters many characters that play a part in her journey. I enjoy how easy Sasha has gotten with using her craft through trial and errors yet still keeping the joy and love for her magic “effects”.
August 1, 2019
I don’t think I will ever get tired if this series. Please if you haven’t read the first four put them on your list. You will not be disappointed. Sasha is the perfect heroine. I love her personality and fight. I also happen to still think Fluffster is one of my favorite characters.
This series is fast paced but you can keep up. The writing is fabulous.
Indefinitely recommend not only this book but the entire series.
This series is fast paced but you can keep up. The writing is fabulous.
Indefinitely recommend not only this book but the entire series.
September 10, 2020
Rescue, rescued and the mother of all revelations
In this book Sasha and her unusual team make their way through many gates and worlds to try and save her father. Daunting vision keep Sasha unnerved. After eventually being rescued themselves, they sigh and head back to earth realm. Their arrival to the gate at the airport brings more dreaded visions and betrayal. Quick thinking and a favor cashed in is her only hope. Then there is Lilith.......
In this book Sasha and her unusual team make their way through many gates and worlds to try and save her father. Daunting vision keep Sasha unnerved. After eventually being rescued themselves, they sigh and head back to earth realm. Their arrival to the gate at the airport brings more dreaded visions and betrayal. Quick thinking and a favor cashed in is her only hope. Then there is Lilith.......
July 27, 2019
I absolutely loved this instalment in Sashs's adventures. This book was well written, imaginative, fast paced, full of action, suspense and intrigue with some unexpected twists. Sasha and her friends are again getting into trouble, there's get more information to be learned, new characters and an adventure.
I'm now eagerly awaiting the next instalment.
I'm now eagerly awaiting the next instalment.
August 4, 2019
Sasha puts her seer powers to use several times for seemingly minor things only to get ominous warnings just in time to avert disaster, super conveniently. The power to twitch probabilities to line up just right is quite the superpower. Readers follow her gang through dangerous worlds to find and rescue her father. The ominous last scene is... ominous.
February 20, 2025
Sasha Urban è l'eroina di cui ho bisogno in questo momento! Forte, determinata, ma anche capace di capire le sue emozioni e lasciarsene attraversare.
Coraggiosa, non esita ad accettare il rischio per salvare le sue persone, e lo fa sempre ragionando e provando a pianificare il piú possibile razionalmente.
Coraggiosa, non esita ad accettare il rischio per salvare le sue persone, e lo fa sempre ragionando e provando a pianificare il piú possibile razionalmente.
July 23, 2020
Absolutely everything I surmised
I love it! Such a great series. I am dreading coming to the end, but what a beautifully woven adventurous series. Everything I thought as the series progressed is true and it is just making love this even more. Pick it up today! Totally worth the read or listen.
I love it! Such a great series. I am dreading coming to the end, but what a beautifully woven adventurous series. Everything I thought as the series progressed is true and it is just making love this even more. Pick it up today! Totally worth the read or listen.
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