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13 to Life #5
Rivals and Retribution
In Rivals and Retribution, the fifth book in the 13 to Life series by Shannon Delany, Pietr and Jessie will find themselves caught in a pack war with a new breed of werewolves.
Jessie Gillmansen is in trouble again and she's in for the fight of her life--and Pietr's! With Marlaena's dangerous wolf pack putting more pressure on the Rusakova family, change is inevitable and when it comes, it brings a heavy price that forces Alexi into action to save his youngest brother's heart, head, and life. In the stunning conclusion of this celebrated paranormal series two werewolf families fight for control of the small town of Junction, control of each other and--most elusive of all--control of themselves.
Jessie Gillmansen is in trouble again and she's in for the fight of her life--and Pietr's! With Marlaena's dangerous wolf pack putting more pressure on the Rusakova family, change is inevitable and when it comes, it brings a heavy price that forces Alexi into action to save his youngest brother's heart, head, and life. In the stunning conclusion of this celebrated paranormal series two werewolf families fight for control of the small town of Junction, control of each other and--most elusive of all--control of themselves.
320 pages, Paperback
First published August 7, 2012
21 people are currently reading
2709 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Delany
34 books1,062 followersShannon has written stories since she was a child. She began writing in earnest when her grandmother fell unexpectedly ill during a family vacation. In 2008 her greatly abbreviated version of 13 to Life (written in just five weeks) won the grand prize in the first-ever cell phone novel contest in the western world through Textnovel.com .
Shannon was thrilled when St. Martin’s Press offered her a contract for a series about her 13 to Life characters. She expanded on the cell phone novel version, adding the subplots and characters she didn’t have time to during the contest. As paranormal as werewolves seem, the grief Shannon used to build Jess’s character is something she personally experienced with the loss of her own mother. Focusing on Jess and Pietr’s story of loss, love and dramatic and dangerous changes, Shannon came to better grips with her own struggle. The resulting novel has earned her blurbs from authors she respects most.
The first novel in Shannon’s YA paranormal series, 13 to Life, debuted June 22, 2010, and was followed by Secrets and Shadows (February 2011), Bargains and Betrayals (August 2011), Destiny and Deception (February 2012), and the Rivals and Retribution (August 2012).
Shannon has also debuted with interactive science fiction in her short story ("To Hel and Back") for Spirited: 13 to Haunting Tales (Leap Books) and will make her high fantasy debut with Month 9 Books' charity anthology titled Two and Twenty Dark Tales (October 2012, "Pieces of Eight").
Shannon's second series (a steampunk trilogy titled WEATHER WITCH, also with St. Martin's Press) launched June 25, 2013 with Weather Witch, followed by Stormbringer (January 2014), and Thunderstruck (May 2014).
Previously a teacher, Shannon lives and writes in Upstate New York and enjoys traveling to talk to people about most anything.
Shannon was thrilled when St. Martin’s Press offered her a contract for a series about her 13 to Life characters. She expanded on the cell phone novel version, adding the subplots and characters she didn’t have time to during the contest. As paranormal as werewolves seem, the grief Shannon used to build Jess’s character is something she personally experienced with the loss of her own mother. Focusing on Jess and Pietr’s story of loss, love and dramatic and dangerous changes, Shannon came to better grips with her own struggle. The resulting novel has earned her blurbs from authors she respects most.
The first novel in Shannon’s YA paranormal series, 13 to Life, debuted June 22, 2010, and was followed by Secrets and Shadows (February 2011), Bargains and Betrayals (August 2011), Destiny and Deception (February 2012), and the Rivals and Retribution (August 2012).
Shannon has also debuted with interactive science fiction in her short story ("To Hel and Back") for Spirited: 13 to Haunting Tales (Leap Books) and will make her high fantasy debut with Month 9 Books' charity anthology titled Two and Twenty Dark Tales (October 2012, "Pieces of Eight").
Shannon's second series (a steampunk trilogy titled WEATHER WITCH, also with St. Martin's Press) launched June 25, 2013 with Weather Witch, followed by Stormbringer (January 2014), and Thunderstruck (May 2014).
Previously a teacher, Shannon lives and writes in Upstate New York and enjoys traveling to talk to people about most anything.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
January 2, 2014
Wow! It's the last book...I can't believe it's over. Delany did an amazing job with wrapping up the series in my opinion. There were some slightly annoying things, but seriously, nothing major. Warning, there are some slight spoilers about the previous books in this series.
Characters
I like Jessie a lot. She's a really awesome heroin because she's so committed to doing what needs to be done in order to keep everyone she loves safe. I love the fact that trouble always seems to find her, but not in an annoying way. You know what I mean?
Feldmen was a really funny and brilliant character; I LOVE her growing relationship with Alexi.
I am in love with Max!!!!!!!!!!!!! His relationship with Amy is so adorable and I love how brotherly and protective he is towards Jessie.
Gabriel and Gareth...I'm not really sure what to write about them to be honest. They're the type of characters that different people will have vastly different opinions about. Although they were both described as being really good-looking in their own ways, personally I thought that Gabriel was WAY too ambitious. Every time he did something, I found myself questioning his motives. Gareth on the other hand was too weak willed. He clearly had the potential to be the Alpha male in the pack, yet he continued to refuse it for some reason that wasn't quite explained. I didn't really hate either of them, but I'm not sure I loved them either. But when Pietr and Max are on the scene, can you really blame me?
Derek was REALLY developed a lot in this book considering that he's dead. I love his character even though he was the bad guy in the previous books and did some pretty horrible things.
I'm not sure if I like Marlaena or hate her. She is a really complex character. She's a selfish bitch one second then the next second she's compassionate...ish. Sorry, but I just need to rant about her for a bit.
1. She is a REALLY bad pack leader. She is SUCH a hypocrite and she contradicts herself a lot. She tells her pack not to get into trouble, but then she makes them help her rob a man. She says it's for survival but I'm like seriously?? You could just get a job if you're that desperate for money!
2.
3.
She's actually quite a lot like Katherine Pierce from The Vampire Dairies. Except I actually like Katherine because her bitchiness and selfish attitude actually makes her more likeable for some very strange reason...
Plot
The plot was SO interesting and suspenseful that I was actually tempted to skip to the end to set my mind at ease. Thank goodness, I was able to read it in one sitting otherwise I wouldn't have been able to concentrate on anything else.
I kind of wish there could be another book. But I don't want the series to turn into something like the House of Night which never seems to end...
The references to Twilight cracked me up!!!!!!! I also really love the little hints throughout the book about writing books and comments about how "readers aren't stupid" and so on. I thought they were clever.
All in all, it's an amazing book and an amazing conclusion to an amazingly unique series. The author ties up all the major loose ends so you can be satisfied, but also leaves some elements of mystery so that you can make your own mind up about certain things. All I can say is that I hope Delany changes her mind and extends the series. (Or at least gives Max a spin off series, seriously that would be epic!)
Characters
I like Jessie a lot. She's a really awesome heroin because she's so committed to doing what needs to be done in order to keep everyone she loves safe. I love the fact that trouble always seems to find her, but not in an annoying way. You know what I mean?
Feldmen was a really funny and brilliant character; I LOVE her growing relationship with Alexi.
I am in love with Max!!!!!!!!!!!!! His relationship with Amy is so adorable and I love how brotherly and protective he is towards Jessie.
Gabriel and Gareth...I'm not really sure what to write about them to be honest. They're the type of characters that different people will have vastly different opinions about. Although they were both described as being really good-looking in their own ways, personally I thought that Gabriel was WAY too ambitious. Every time he did something, I found myself questioning his motives. Gareth on the other hand was too weak willed. He clearly had the potential to be the Alpha male in the pack, yet he continued to refuse it for some reason that wasn't quite explained. I didn't really hate either of them, but I'm not sure I loved them either. But when Pietr and Max are on the scene, can you really blame me?
Derek was REALLY developed a lot in this book considering that he's dead. I love his character even though he was the bad guy in the previous books and did some pretty horrible things.
I'm not sure if I like Marlaena or hate her. She is a really complex character. She's a selfish bitch one second then the next second she's compassionate...ish. Sorry, but I just need to rant about her for a bit.
1. She is a REALLY bad pack leader. She is SUCH a hypocrite and she contradicts herself a lot. She tells her pack not to get into trouble, but then she makes them help her rob a man. She says it's for survival but I'm like seriously?? You could just get a job if you're that desperate for money!
2.
3.
She's actually quite a lot like Katherine Pierce from The Vampire Dairies. Except I actually like Katherine because her bitchiness and selfish attitude actually makes her more likeable for some very strange reason...
Plot
The plot was SO interesting and suspenseful that I was actually tempted to skip to the end to set my mind at ease. Thank goodness, I was able to read it in one sitting otherwise I wouldn't have been able to concentrate on anything else.
I kind of wish there could be another book. But I don't want the series to turn into something like the House of Night which never seems to end...
The references to Twilight cracked me up!!!!!!! I also really love the little hints throughout the book about writing books and comments about how "readers aren't stupid" and so on. I thought they were clever.
All in all, it's an amazing book and an amazing conclusion to an amazingly unique series. The author ties up all the major loose ends so you can be satisfied, but also leaves some elements of mystery so that you can make your own mind up about certain things. All I can say is that I hope Delany changes her mind and extends the series. (Or at least gives Max a spin off series, seriously that would be epic!)
February 1, 2013
SPOILERS
The 13 to Life series started of amazingly well for me and I was completely enamoured with this original werewolf story. But, books 4 and 5 were a complete let down. I felt book 4, Destiny and Deception, was just a long drawn out lead up to this one. Peter is a completely different character from the beginning after taking the cure, and not in a good way, the timing is all over the place, and just as things start to pick up, it ends on a cliff hanger.
Rivals and Retribution opens where Destiny and Deception left off, with a rescue mission by the Rusakova's to rescue Jessie. Even at Jessie's kidnapping, Pietr didn't seem to be able to build up any heat or passion. Thankfully, fear for Jessie's life is enough to make Pietr's wolf overcome the cure, but my joy at that didn't last very long, as he immediately imprints with Marlaena, alpha of a rival pack who arrived in Junction in the last book, and is a really unappealing character.
The Pietr who appeared in the first three books of this series was hot, passionate, caring, tough, protective and all those things that I love in my book crushes, but this guy disappeared at the end of book 3 and unfortunately, never makes a reappearance.
Again, the timing in this book was all over the place and at times, it felt rushed. At one point, Alexei is struggling to find the new cure and doesn't know if he's going to have it in time to save Pietr, then within a couple of pages, he's on his way home from the laboratory with enough of the cure for everyone. It was just really off.
The last chapter was really annoying. Jessie wakes up after a few hours of sleep and thinks the whole book series has just been a dream!!!! WTF! She eventually realises it wasn't but this was just ridiculous.
I feel as if Shannon had completely lost interest in this series for the last two books. If she'd stopped after book 3, this would have been an amazing series, but unfortunately, that wasn't to be. With the result that I'll be reluctant to pick up anything by this author again.
The 13 to Life series started of amazingly well for me and I was completely enamoured with this original werewolf story. But, books 4 and 5 were a complete let down. I felt book 4, Destiny and Deception, was just a long drawn out lead up to this one. Peter is a completely different character from the beginning after taking the cure, and not in a good way, the timing is all over the place, and just as things start to pick up, it ends on a cliff hanger.
Rivals and Retribution opens where Destiny and Deception left off, with a rescue mission by the Rusakova's to rescue Jessie. Even at Jessie's kidnapping, Pietr didn't seem to be able to build up any heat or passion. Thankfully, fear for Jessie's life is enough to make Pietr's wolf overcome the cure, but my joy at that didn't last very long, as he immediately imprints with Marlaena, alpha of a rival pack who arrived in Junction in the last book, and is a really unappealing character.
The Pietr who appeared in the first three books of this series was hot, passionate, caring, tough, protective and all those things that I love in my book crushes, but this guy disappeared at the end of book 3 and unfortunately, never makes a reappearance.
Again, the timing in this book was all over the place and at times, it felt rushed. At one point, Alexei is struggling to find the new cure and doesn't know if he's going to have it in time to save Pietr, then within a couple of pages, he's on his way home from the laboratory with enough of the cure for everyone. It was just really off.
The last chapter was really annoying. Jessie wakes up after a few hours of sleep and thinks the whole book series has just been a dream!!!! WTF! She eventually realises it wasn't but this was just ridiculous.
I feel as if Shannon had completely lost interest in this series for the last two books. If she'd stopped after book 3, this would have been an amazing series, but unfortunately, that wasn't to be. With the result that I'll be reluctant to pick up anything by this author again.
August 1, 2012
I enjoyed the first four books in this series, but for some reason, this book was very hard to get through. It almost felt like Shannon Delany just wanted to get through this last book so that she could start a new project.
In the prologue, we keep being told that Jessie is not like ordinary girls. The repetition of that annoys me no end, especially because she's like so many teenage girls. One of the biggest examples of this is ALSO in the prologue, when she admits that Pietr isn't as attractive to her now that he's not a werewolf anymore. Without his uniqueness, he's just not as interesting. Still, she's determined to make it work because, after all, a promise is a promise.
But that's not the most annoying thing. (SPOILERS FOLLOW.)
After Pietr DOES turn back into a werewolf, he imprints on Marlaena. Please, authors, can we declare a moratorium on imprinting? It was gross when Jacob did it and now it's just annoying. PLEASE STOP.
And the ending was ridiculous. I'm sorry, but it was. (SPOILERS AGAIN) In the last chapter, she wakes up and thinks her mom's alive again, which means that everything with Pietr didn't happen. And then she sees Pietr and realizes that no, her mom's still dead. And she's all, oh, thank goodness. Because dead mom is sad but no Pietr would be TRAGIC.
The rest of the series was entertaining but I didn't like this book. If you loved the rest of the series and need to see what happens next, go with it, but otherwise, save yourself.
In the prologue, we keep being told that Jessie is not like ordinary girls. The repetition of that annoys me no end, especially because she's like so many teenage girls. One of the biggest examples of this is ALSO in the prologue, when she admits that Pietr isn't as attractive to her now that he's not a werewolf anymore. Without his uniqueness, he's just not as interesting. Still, she's determined to make it work because, after all, a promise is a promise.
But that's not the most annoying thing. (SPOILERS FOLLOW.)
After Pietr DOES turn back into a werewolf, he imprints on Marlaena. Please, authors, can we declare a moratorium on imprinting? It was gross when Jacob did it and now it's just annoying. PLEASE STOP.
And the ending was ridiculous. I'm sorry, but it was. (SPOILERS AGAIN) In the last chapter, she wakes up and thinks her mom's alive again, which means that everything with Pietr didn't happen. And then she sees Pietr and realizes that no, her mom's still dead. And she's all, oh, thank goodness. Because dead mom is sad but no Pietr would be TRAGIC.
The rest of the series was entertaining but I didn't like this book. If you loved the rest of the series and need to see what happens next, go with it, but otherwise, save yourself.
Read
September 28, 2012WOW!
So I finally finished reading Rivals and Retribution (The final book in Shannon Delany's debut series) and man, that was one hell of an emotional roller coaster!
To the point where I was crying, laughing, hysterical, and enraged. I even yelled at the book as if that would change the characters decisions.
For me, this last book had it ALL, and I mean all! Even zombie references (You know thats my thing ;D ) and while I'm talking about references, a mention about a certain beloved band in chapter thirteen made me grin like an idiot.
The cherry on top for me was the consistent reminder of Jessie's essay, I love that paradox timey whimy stuff ;D
With all the action and drama crammed into this 306 paged book, there's no taking a breath, the Mafia, sexy Russian werewolves, and Deadly imprinting? ! My head was spinning with anticipation for the next chapter. Page 235 is one of my favourites, it has introduced me to the best way to ever insinuate a character saying "Son of a bitch" without actually ...you know...cussing.
The end to a series usually leaves me demanding more, yet Shannon has so delicately wrapped this story up, your just thankful Jessie and Pietr can finally relax.
Normally reviews have at least one negative thing to be said, but I can't! The story line was gripping, the action was heart pounding, intense complex characters, and an all around spectacular series.
But!
There is ONE thing to complain about, page 143... had a strange powdery residue on the top left-hand corner ;)
I Strongly recommend this series to anyone who loves action and antics.
And thank you Shannon, for sharing this story with all of us. <3
So I finally finished reading Rivals and Retribution (The final book in Shannon Delany's debut series) and man, that was one hell of an emotional roller coaster!
To the point where I was crying, laughing, hysterical, and enraged. I even yelled at the book as if that would change the characters decisions.
For me, this last book had it ALL, and I mean all! Even zombie references (You know thats my thing ;D ) and while I'm talking about references, a mention about a certain beloved band in chapter thirteen made me grin like an idiot.
The cherry on top for me was the consistent reminder of Jessie's essay, I love that paradox timey whimy stuff ;D
With all the action and drama crammed into this 306 paged book, there's no taking a breath, the Mafia, sexy Russian werewolves, and Deadly imprinting? ! My head was spinning with anticipation for the next chapter. Page 235 is one of my favourites, it has introduced me to the best way to ever insinuate a character saying "Son of a bitch" without actually ...you know...cussing.
The end to a series usually leaves me demanding more, yet Shannon has so delicately wrapped this story up, your just thankful Jessie and Pietr can finally relax.
Normally reviews have at least one negative thing to be said, but I can't! The story line was gripping, the action was heart pounding, intense complex characters, and an all around spectacular series.
But!
There is ONE thing to complain about, page 143... had a strange powdery residue on the top left-hand corner ;)
I Strongly recommend this series to anyone who loves action and antics.
And thank you Shannon, for sharing this story with all of us. <3
September 21, 2012
So what did I think of the 5th (and final) book in the 13 To Life Series? To be honest, I was less than impressed. The first 70 pages or so were dedicated to rescuing Jessie (yes, AGAIN). With the story told from the same 3 POVs as book 4, and perspective changing literally from page to page, it was hard to get immersed in the characters or the story. I also felt that Marlaena's POV took too much focus away from Jessie and the Rusakovas.
Since I don't really like any of the new characters (the new pack), I don't care about them. It's hard to read a book that is one third (or more) about characters you don't give a shit about. I found myself wishing all of the Rusakovas, Jessie, and her friend, Amy, were written with the same care and attention that was in the first 3 books. The romantic relationships also suffered from lack of attention by the author. Jessie and Pietr were at a horrible point in their relationship in book 4, and it never improved in book 5 (which makes me sad.) Max and Amy didn't have anything important going on with their relationship. Alexi is over and done with acting like an ass, so we get none of the smoking and drinking and acting all Russian every time he thinks about Nadezhda. I thought he was more interesting (and hot) when he was dark and moody. Basically, everything that I had grown to love about these couples in the first 3 books was missing here. Also missing was the closeness of the Rusakova family, and that was something that I really felt the loss of.
I'm not at all satisfied with the final book of this series. So many subplots were introduced throughout the series that it was a little hard to sort through who knew what by the end. All of the goings on were cleaned up nice and tidy by the last page. I just wish things hadn't been previously dropped and then randomly picked up in book 5, only to have a simple, yet effective, resolution. It was just too easy. The ending was rushed and gave me no satisfaction.
You definitely need to read this book to have closure if you've read the first 4 books in the series. Why give up now, right? Overall, I did love the series, but I didn't always agree with (or enjoy) the the things that were going on. I felt a lot of ups and downs over the course of reading this series. I loved exploring the relationships, both personal and familial, in the first 3 books. The complete neglect that these relationships suffer through in the last 2 books is just wrong and it really breaks my heart.
Since I don't really like any of the new characters (the new pack), I don't care about them. It's hard to read a book that is one third (or more) about characters you don't give a shit about. I found myself wishing all of the Rusakovas, Jessie, and her friend, Amy, were written with the same care and attention that was in the first 3 books. The romantic relationships also suffered from lack of attention by the author. Jessie and Pietr were at a horrible point in their relationship in book 4, and it never improved in book 5 (which makes me sad.) Max and Amy didn't have anything important going on with their relationship. Alexi is over and done with acting like an ass, so we get none of the smoking and drinking and acting all Russian every time he thinks about Nadezhda. I thought he was more interesting (and hot) when he was dark and moody. Basically, everything that I had grown to love about these couples in the first 3 books was missing here. Also missing was the closeness of the Rusakova family, and that was something that I really felt the loss of.
I'm not at all satisfied with the final book of this series. So many subplots were introduced throughout the series that it was a little hard to sort through who knew what by the end. All of the goings on were cleaned up nice and tidy by the last page. I just wish things hadn't been previously dropped and then randomly picked up in book 5, only to have a simple, yet effective, resolution. It was just too easy. The ending was rushed and gave me no satisfaction.
You definitely need to read this book to have closure if you've read the first 4 books in the series. Why give up now, right? Overall, I did love the series, but I didn't always agree with (or enjoy) the the things that were going on. I felt a lot of ups and downs over the course of reading this series. I loved exploring the relationships, both personal and familial, in the first 3 books. The complete neglect that these relationships suffer through in the last 2 books is just wrong and it really breaks my heart.
March 29, 2016
All right guys this is it. This is the final book in Delany's 13 to Life series and holy werewolf babies does it punch it. There's no real 'downtime' for Jessie and our Rusakovas. If its not an emotional crazy, its a medical crazy and if its not a medical crazy its a personal problem and that doesn't begin to cover the other werewolves running around Junction.
Surprising of all was the turn Jessie and Pietr's relationship took. I knew it would change, with the fourth book's ending it HAD to change because Pietr had changed and certain folks didn't make it any easier for him to adjust to those changes. I should say the turn wasn't so surprising, more the way I felt about it. I thought I was feel...differently. More upset I suppose, like I was in the first two books and the problems their relationship underwent then. I think Delany handled this shift in dynamic better.
As for the other Rusakovas--no one is spared the insanity. Alexi undergoes quite a bit in his quest for redemption for his sins (perceived and otherwise). I forgot somewhere between books 3 and 4 how much Alexi made me ache for him. He really tries so hard and he's so under appreciated. He shines in this book, and deserves every moment of it.
Let me put this forth however, reading the last chapter's first page or two had me ready to tweet my displeasure from here to next year. I was almost ready to toss the book, no joke. I'm glad I kept reading though because Delany ties it up in such a way that I forgave her. Mostly. I demand those ten years I lost when I thought the worst idea ever was coming true.
As a finale to a series that I've loved more often then not, with a cast of characters I liked from the get go and a blend of genres I found irresistible this was good. Better than good. Some of it felt rushed; the final confrontation with the bad guys and resolution for instance. It was bam bam bam in such a way I had trouble digesting each new piece of information quickly enough to comprehend the next event.
This series did convince me that Shannon Delany is one of my favorite YA writers in the last five years and whatever she writes next I'll grab before someone can blink and say 'Hey!'
Surprising of all was the turn Jessie and Pietr's relationship took. I knew it would change, with the fourth book's ending it HAD to change because Pietr had changed and certain folks didn't make it any easier for him to adjust to those changes. I should say the turn wasn't so surprising, more the way I felt about it. I thought I was feel...differently. More upset I suppose, like I was in the first two books and the problems their relationship underwent then. I think Delany handled this shift in dynamic better.
As for the other Rusakovas--no one is spared the insanity. Alexi undergoes quite a bit in his quest for redemption for his sins (perceived and otherwise). I forgot somewhere between books 3 and 4 how much Alexi made me ache for him. He really tries so hard and he's so under appreciated. He shines in this book, and deserves every moment of it.
Let me put this forth however, reading the last chapter's first page or two had me ready to tweet my displeasure from here to next year. I was almost ready to toss the book, no joke. I'm glad I kept reading though because Delany ties it up in such a way that I forgave her. Mostly. I demand those ten years I lost when I thought the worst idea ever was coming true.
As a finale to a series that I've loved more often then not, with a cast of characters I liked from the get go and a blend of genres I found irresistible this was good. Better than good. Some of it felt rushed; the final confrontation with the bad guys and resolution for instance. It was bam bam bam in such a way I had trouble digesting each new piece of information quickly enough to comprehend the next event.
This series did convince me that Shannon Delany is one of my favorite YA writers in the last five years and whatever she writes next I'll grab before someone can blink and say 'Hey!'
April 23, 2018
Just to warn anyone who reads this, my review is full of **spoilers**.
My Rating: 2.5/5 stars
I HATED the whole imprint thing between Pietr and Marlaena. It just complicated things even more between Pietr and Jessie. I mean, they'd already been having problems in their relationship and the imprint just made things worse. I am happy ,though, that at the end they finally found a cure that lengthens an oboroten's life and destroys an imprint without killing the wolf. Gabriel made me sick and I didn't miss him when Jessie killed him, though I'm not happy that she had to kill someone. Like some reviews of others that I read, I felt this last book was hard to get through. This book literally sat on my desk for WEEKS before I finally decided to finish it. I'm glad that Alexi finally got with Nadezhda. Wanda will get her happy ending too now that she's back in Junction with Jessie's dad and remembers what happened to change her mind about what she wanted to do in her life (Derek). But overall, I liked the series. I don't know why it was so hard to read through the last two books, though. I wish Marlaena had taken the cure so she could be happy with Gareth. I assume that Gareth didn't leave with her, that he stayed behind to live with the Rusakovas and look after the rest of the pack. I think it would've made her life more easier if she just took the cure. She could have still lead the pack and lived longer. I don't know why she still refused the cure, especially with the fact that she'd be able to keep the wolf and wouldn't be human. Anyway, I have to say that the first three books were the best while the last two didn't live up to my expectations of having an epic ending. I'm kinda disappointed...
My Rating: 2.5/5 stars
I HATED the whole imprint thing between Pietr and Marlaena. It just complicated things even more between Pietr and Jessie. I mean, they'd already been having problems in their relationship and the imprint just made things worse. I am happy ,though, that at the end they finally found a cure that lengthens an oboroten's life and destroys an imprint without killing the wolf. Gabriel made me sick and I didn't miss him when Jessie killed him, though I'm not happy that she had to kill someone. Like some reviews of others that I read, I felt this last book was hard to get through. This book literally sat on my desk for WEEKS before I finally decided to finish it. I'm glad that Alexi finally got with Nadezhda. Wanda will get her happy ending too now that she's back in Junction with Jessie's dad and remembers what happened to change her mind about what she wanted to do in her life (Derek). But overall, I liked the series. I don't know why it was so hard to read through the last two books, though. I wish Marlaena had taken the cure so she could be happy with Gareth. I assume that Gareth didn't leave with her, that he stayed behind to live with the Rusakovas and look after the rest of the pack. I think it would've made her life more easier if she just took the cure. She could have still lead the pack and lived longer. I don't know why she still refused the cure, especially with the fact that she'd be able to keep the wolf and wouldn't be human. Anyway, I have to say that the first three books were the best while the last two didn't live up to my expectations of having an epic ending. I'm kinda disappointed...
August 19, 2012
I can't believe that it's the last book. The first 3 books in this series I loved, but the 4th one wasn't as good. Now at the fifth and final book I have to say I'm pretty disapointed. It took 100 pages just to save Jessie and so not much was going on. In the next 170 pages not much happened except Marlaene & Peter were acting strange and such. Then at page 270 Jessie finally figures it out and in about 20 pages they finally have a cure. I didn't understand how Marlaene always said she loved Gareth but in the end she wouldn't take the cure so they could stay together. WTF? We didn't see much of Jessie and Peter. It didn't really fit in with the other books. It didn't really feel like a last book in a series. It was like it was just a random plot she came up with a threw together. It was way to short and fast paced for me. I gave it 3 stars because I came to love this series but the last was a big disappointment.
January 9, 2016
4 STARS!!!
This series turned out to be pretty good. I was very skeptical in the beginning about how much I would enjoy these books. But, I actually did!!!
This book was very well written. And the ending was just...WOW!! It was a highly enjoyable read :)
This series turned out to be pretty good. I was very skeptical in the beginning about how much I would enjoy these books. But, I actually did!!!
This book was very well written. And the ending was just...WOW!! It was a highly enjoyable read :)
March 27, 2012
So scattered in plot because of the different points of view there is no climax and the defeat of the villains and the challenges is contrived and rushed. For fans only.
February 1, 2013
I am so glad this series is over. It really went downhill the last couple books. This is much less a review and more of a rant (an all over the place, random rant). So be warned.
First off, how many times has Jesse been kidnapped now? This chick is in no way a heroine. I love (by love I mean hate) how she had been locked up in a shed and probably stinks and has bad breath, is thrown down a mountain and now has a split lip and is bleeding all over her mouth; but she pulls Pieter in for a kiss and gets all passionate about it. Normally I get annoyed with the simple stinky dirty aspect of it, but she is effin bleeding all over her face, and you're going to make out? Nasty nasty nasty! I had just finished watching the A team movie before reading this part in the book and I thought of the line "Baby, I just threw up, at least let me get some gum." Yeah, at least they know it's gross and can make a joke of it.
That was not all. I couldn't stand pretty much everything about Jessie in the book. I hate how she called Pieter 'my Pieter'. What you own him? If he acted like he owned you, you would get all pissy about it. I hated all their cuddling and sissy love talk. I hated how she whined 'I love you' to him every goddamn time he left a room and moaning 'I missed you' every time they saw each other again. STFU you needy ass bitch. I wanted to punch her in the face on numerous occasions. The most being the end when she is bitching about Pieter being a dick to her. How? Just because he's not kissing your ass and worshiping the ground you walk on? Get the fuck over yourself.
I was ready to give this book 2 stars until the scene at the end where Jessie kills Gabriel. I get killing Gabriel in self defense. But I was disgusted with Jessie when she even considered killing Marlena. It had nothing to do with keeping herself or the ones she loves safe. She simply considered it because killing her meant the imprint was gone. All she had to do was let Marlena and Pieter have sex. Then the imprint would be gone as it was simply forcing them to pass on their genes. I understand that that is hard to do. But, if they denied the imprint they would make themselves sick, go insane, then die. You are such a jealous, untrusting, selfish, cold-hearted, bitch that you'd rather kill someone (who has a lover in the same position as you but would rather let them get it on and live because he can think of people other than himself, plus he has done nothing but help you and you'd be killing the love of his life in return) then let your boyfriend have meaningless sex with them? She is way worse that Marlena and should go to hell. I hate Jessie.
I much preferred Pieter when he was healed and not so damn pussy whipped too. I never liked Amy or Sarah and I don't even recall the other friend's name, so obviously she was forgettable. But, back to Jessie. I also couldn't stand how she called Alexi Sasha. That was a family pet name that I don't think was meant for her. I also hated when she spoke Russian. Speaking of Russian, I hated the plethora of random 'Da' and 'Nyet' and I really hated 'pravada' always followed by 'true.' I am not stupid, I don't need you to tell me the English meaning of the Russian word each time.
As far as the other characters, they did nothing for me. Marlena and Gareth are boring, I didn't care much for them. I hated how they called the other wolves in their pack 'the pups'. Pups are babies, kids, these were teenagers. Why did the author make them act like 5 year olds, jumping on the bed, giggling and running to Marlena or Gareth once they came home, the way they talked. Then it said they were enrolling in high school and I was like um WTF? Pieter and Max are both in high school too, ergo around the same age as the pups, but they act way different. Why are the pups so immature? Marlena is supposed to be only a few years older than them too. Terrible continuity in this one.
Also, there was no real villain. Dimitri is a poor excuse for one and Marlena pined for Pieter half the book while hating him at the same time. Derek was a proper villain who was sort of in this book, in a way. Gabriel was an attempt at another villain but he was just an annoying punk kid who probably would have turned into a serial killer in 10 years. I used to like the Ruskova's okay, but in this book Cat was pretty much nonexistent, Max was an ancillary character, and Alexi kinda got on my nerves. Speaking of Alexi, I don't get Alexi and Nadezhda. Why do they call each other? Who is she again? He says he never loved her and now she is taken. Were they together in Russia? It may have been said in previous books but I don't remember any of them much.
Now on to the randoms. I thought Pieter was a wolf at the beginning of the last book when he met Marlena? If so, why didn't the imprint happen then? I rolled my eyes so far I thought they would come out of my head when I read that they had imprinted. Really, what a blatant rip off of Twilight. I hate how the author makes fun of Twilight (how the wolves tie clothes to themselves so when they transition back to human they have clothing) then rips it off the next (with the whole imprinting thing while still making fun of it by having character say 'That's real, I thought it was only in Twilight?' Jessie reads YA paranormal type books but her sister makes fun of her for it (yeah for reading the exact same genre this book falls under). She even says, "I am fiercely determined that the existence of paranormal romance is a sure sign of the fall of civilization." She is referring to Twilight, but as I said, this book is the same. Twilight is in no way a literary masterpiece, but it was better and more unique than this series.
Alexi's mom is in an old folks home and walks with a cane. She sounds like a senior citizen but Alexi is only 23 or 24. So did she have him when she was already menopausal? Doesn't make sense.
Pieter and Max both had to wear the special girl repellent necklaces because girls were so attracted to werewolves. But, none of the pups have this effect? None of them are mentioned wearing one.
WTF was the reason for Jessie hearing Derek in her head? What purpose did that part of the plot serve? At the end when she shoots Gabriel in the head, which was pretty gross by the way, she says Derek made her do it. How? Why?
The last 50 pages were the worst. The characters 'snort' a million times. What are they pigs? They do it when nothing is funny and they are not laughing. Why did this annoy me? I don't know but it did.
They all build a cell to keep Pieter and Marlena in. When did they all become architects and construction workers? How the hell do a group of teens and a farmer manage to build a panic room?
Marlena is laid bloody and near death on the love seat at the Ruskova's and the point is made that Cat didn't have time to lay down a cloth. A few pages later Alexi and Nadezhda are cuddling on the same love seat? Um ew, covered in blood...really?
These are just a few of the unexplained or pointless plot issues in this book that I can think of off the top of my head. I am sure there are more. As I said, the continuity was horrible.
So, as you can see, I really have nothing positive to say about this book except that I am glad that the series is over. Whereas I enjoyed the first 2 books, the 3rd went downhill for me and these last two were just plain bad. Perhaps this author should stick with solo books or trilogies.
First off, how many times has Jesse been kidnapped now? This chick is in no way a heroine. I love (by love I mean hate) how she had been locked up in a shed and probably stinks and has bad breath, is thrown down a mountain and now has a split lip and is bleeding all over her mouth; but she pulls Pieter in for a kiss and gets all passionate about it. Normally I get annoyed with the simple stinky dirty aspect of it, but she is effin bleeding all over her face, and you're going to make out? Nasty nasty nasty! I had just finished watching the A team movie before reading this part in the book and I thought of the line "Baby, I just threw up, at least let me get some gum." Yeah, at least they know it's gross and can make a joke of it.
That was not all. I couldn't stand pretty much everything about Jessie in the book. I hate how she called Pieter 'my Pieter'. What you own him? If he acted like he owned you, you would get all pissy about it. I hated all their cuddling and sissy love talk. I hated how she whined 'I love you' to him every goddamn time he left a room and moaning 'I missed you' every time they saw each other again. STFU you needy ass bitch. I wanted to punch her in the face on numerous occasions. The most being the end when she is bitching about Pieter being a dick to her. How? Just because he's not kissing your ass and worshiping the ground you walk on? Get the fuck over yourself.
I was ready to give this book 2 stars until the scene at the end where Jessie kills Gabriel. I get killing Gabriel in self defense. But I was disgusted with Jessie when she even considered killing Marlena. It had nothing to do with keeping herself or the ones she loves safe. She simply considered it because killing her meant the imprint was gone. All she had to do was let Marlena and Pieter have sex. Then the imprint would be gone as it was simply forcing them to pass on their genes. I understand that that is hard to do. But, if they denied the imprint they would make themselves sick, go insane, then die. You are such a jealous, untrusting, selfish, cold-hearted, bitch that you'd rather kill someone (who has a lover in the same position as you but would rather let them get it on and live because he can think of people other than himself, plus he has done nothing but help you and you'd be killing the love of his life in return) then let your boyfriend have meaningless sex with them? She is way worse that Marlena and should go to hell. I hate Jessie.
I much preferred Pieter when he was healed and not so damn pussy whipped too. I never liked Amy or Sarah and I don't even recall the other friend's name, so obviously she was forgettable. But, back to Jessie. I also couldn't stand how she called Alexi Sasha. That was a family pet name that I don't think was meant for her. I also hated when she spoke Russian. Speaking of Russian, I hated the plethora of random 'Da' and 'Nyet' and I really hated 'pravada' always followed by 'true.' I am not stupid, I don't need you to tell me the English meaning of the Russian word each time.
As far as the other characters, they did nothing for me. Marlena and Gareth are boring, I didn't care much for them. I hated how they called the other wolves in their pack 'the pups'. Pups are babies, kids, these were teenagers. Why did the author make them act like 5 year olds, jumping on the bed, giggling and running to Marlena or Gareth once they came home, the way they talked. Then it said they were enrolling in high school and I was like um WTF? Pieter and Max are both in high school too, ergo around the same age as the pups, but they act way different. Why are the pups so immature? Marlena is supposed to be only a few years older than them too. Terrible continuity in this one.
Also, there was no real villain. Dimitri is a poor excuse for one and Marlena pined for Pieter half the book while hating him at the same time. Derek was a proper villain who was sort of in this book, in a way. Gabriel was an attempt at another villain but he was just an annoying punk kid who probably would have turned into a serial killer in 10 years. I used to like the Ruskova's okay, but in this book Cat was pretty much nonexistent, Max was an ancillary character, and Alexi kinda got on my nerves. Speaking of Alexi, I don't get Alexi and Nadezhda. Why do they call each other? Who is she again? He says he never loved her and now she is taken. Were they together in Russia? It may have been said in previous books but I don't remember any of them much.
Now on to the randoms. I thought Pieter was a wolf at the beginning of the last book when he met Marlena? If so, why didn't the imprint happen then? I rolled my eyes so far I thought they would come out of my head when I read that they had imprinted. Really, what a blatant rip off of Twilight. I hate how the author makes fun of Twilight (how the wolves tie clothes to themselves so when they transition back to human they have clothing) then rips it off the next (with the whole imprinting thing while still making fun of it by having character say 'That's real, I thought it was only in Twilight?' Jessie reads YA paranormal type books but her sister makes fun of her for it (yeah for reading the exact same genre this book falls under). She even says, "I am fiercely determined that the existence of paranormal romance is a sure sign of the fall of civilization." She is referring to Twilight, but as I said, this book is the same. Twilight is in no way a literary masterpiece, but it was better and more unique than this series.
Alexi's mom is in an old folks home and walks with a cane. She sounds like a senior citizen but Alexi is only 23 or 24. So did she have him when she was already menopausal? Doesn't make sense.
Pieter and Max both had to wear the special girl repellent necklaces because girls were so attracted to werewolves. But, none of the pups have this effect? None of them are mentioned wearing one.
WTF was the reason for Jessie hearing Derek in her head? What purpose did that part of the plot serve? At the end when she shoots Gabriel in the head, which was pretty gross by the way, she says Derek made her do it. How? Why?
The last 50 pages were the worst. The characters 'snort' a million times. What are they pigs? They do it when nothing is funny and they are not laughing. Why did this annoy me? I don't know but it did.
They all build a cell to keep Pieter and Marlena in. When did they all become architects and construction workers? How the hell do a group of teens and a farmer manage to build a panic room?
Marlena is laid bloody and near death on the love seat at the Ruskova's and the point is made that Cat didn't have time to lay down a cloth. A few pages later Alexi and Nadezhda are cuddling on the same love seat? Um ew, covered in blood...really?
These are just a few of the unexplained or pointless plot issues in this book that I can think of off the top of my head. I am sure there are more. As I said, the continuity was horrible.
So, as you can see, I really have nothing positive to say about this book except that I am glad that the series is over. Whereas I enjoyed the first 2 books, the 3rd went downhill for me and these last two were just plain bad. Perhaps this author should stick with solo books or trilogies.
August 21, 2012
Maybe 2.5. I liked the first 1/3 of the book, but the rest was really choppy, with plot spread incredibly thin among so many stories and POVs. Basically nothing was addressed or wrapped up well because there were too many subplots to give any of it the depth and attention it deserved. I was constantly irritated that key conversations and action seemed to be missing and I couldn’t tell how much time was passing or reconcile who knew what, when, why and how. I think I liked the first 100 pages because it focused on one story, there was no time-skipping or holes where conversations needed to be. After this, though, it was all downhill.
I thoroughly detested the and I thought a lot of the revisiting of past (and current) loose ends seemed pointless and too busy. For example, the Derek stuff was completely ridiculous and seemed to be largely addressed just because it had been mentioned a couple of books ago and dropped--really seemed stupid to dredge it up again and try to force it to fit--or pretend that it “helped”--with the current story. And, a lot of loose ends were conveniently and quickly terminated--often in crazy and abrupt ways (e.g. )--seemingly just to make sure no little string was left hanging and everything was methodically checked off. There was no climax to the story, though there was some potential for a big one with --instead, everything ended with almost a whimper. I thought the ending with was so ludicrous!! And, though checked off, many of the endings were unclear and left me with questions: ? It bugged me, too, that we never got any big declarations of devotion from anybody--! And, the thing at the end was beyond ridiculous!!
This book was better than the last, but not by much. I’m just happy the series is over! It should have ended 2 books ago and, even then, it was so chaotic and littered with plot threads that I could barely sort it all out. I’m not sure what compelled me to continue this series to the end… One final note: I did like some of the tongue-in-cheek comments Jess makes/thinks in this series--overt comparisons to Twilight, comments about feeling like she’s in a paranormal romance sequel, etc. Those were fun, but didn’t make up for all of the things that weren’t fun… I doubt I’ll read anything else by this author in the future.
I thoroughly detested the and I thought a lot of the revisiting of past (and current) loose ends seemed pointless and too busy. For example, the Derek stuff was completely ridiculous and seemed to be largely addressed just because it had been mentioned a couple of books ago and dropped--really seemed stupid to dredge it up again and try to force it to fit--or pretend that it “helped”--with the current story. And, a lot of loose ends were conveniently and quickly terminated--often in crazy and abrupt ways (e.g. )--seemingly just to make sure no little string was left hanging and everything was methodically checked off. There was no climax to the story, though there was some potential for a big one with --instead, everything ended with almost a whimper. I thought the ending with was so ludicrous!! And, though checked off, many of the endings were unclear and left me with questions: ? It bugged me, too, that we never got any big declarations of devotion from anybody--! And, the thing at the end was beyond ridiculous!!
This book was better than the last, but not by much. I’m just happy the series is over! It should have ended 2 books ago and, even then, it was so chaotic and littered with plot threads that I could barely sort it all out. I’m not sure what compelled me to continue this series to the end… One final note: I did like some of the tongue-in-cheek comments Jess makes/thinks in this series--overt comparisons to Twilight, comments about feeling like she’s in a paranormal romance sequel, etc. Those were fun, but didn’t make up for all of the things that weren’t fun… I doubt I’ll read anything else by this author in the future.
April 15, 2012
Well, I cannot believe this is the end...I am so sad that I will not be visiting my beloved werewolf family of Jess, Pietr, Max, Amy, Cat, and Alexi. As I sit and think about it now, my heart is aching at the loss this causes...But, with Rivals and Retribution the last book in the 13 to Life series, you can bet that Shannon Delany will make it a memorable one!!
Rivals and Retribution begins right where Destiny and Deception leaves off...And boy does it hit the ground running. Shannon has made sure in the book we experience every bit of our glorious werewolf family; with so much action, suspense. heartache, and joy, this book has it all.
And truly, Rivals and Retribution rocked my world. I was so captivated all the way through the book...even until the VERY END I was glued to every page!!! I was on a roller-coaster ride of emotions; feeling worried, relieved, angry, totally pissed off (wondering exactly where Shannon was taking us on this particular story-line all the while thinking... WTH????), heartbroken, and the best one of all...HAPPY! WOW...doesn't that all make for an exhilarating experience?
While I know this is the end, there are things that I am left wondering...I feel like some things were not closed enough for me and I also feel like there was so much packed in to this book that some of the big stuff that should have had more time devoted to it, was neglected.
I LOVE this series....I have loved every book...and this one is just as good as all the others...Yeah, I wish there were certain aspects covered more for my benefit, but the book itself is fantastic!! I hope that Shannon will bring us a spin off so that we can learn a little more about the aspects not closed in Rivals and Retribution and maybe even a peek in to the lives of some of my favorite characters!!
http://tsktskwhattoread2.blogspot.com...
Rivals and Retribution begins right where Destiny and Deception leaves off...And boy does it hit the ground running. Shannon has made sure in the book we experience every bit of our glorious werewolf family; with so much action, suspense. heartache, and joy, this book has it all.
And truly, Rivals and Retribution rocked my world. I was so captivated all the way through the book...even until the VERY END I was glued to every page!!! I was on a roller-coaster ride of emotions; feeling worried, relieved, angry, totally pissed off (wondering exactly where Shannon was taking us on this particular story-line all the while thinking... WTH????), heartbroken, and the best one of all...HAPPY! WOW...doesn't that all make for an exhilarating experience?
While I know this is the end, there are things that I am left wondering...I feel like some things were not closed enough for me and I also feel like there was so much packed in to this book that some of the big stuff that should have had more time devoted to it, was neglected.
I LOVE this series....I have loved every book...and this one is just as good as all the others...Yeah, I wish there were certain aspects covered more for my benefit, but the book itself is fantastic!! I hope that Shannon will bring us a spin off so that we can learn a little more about the aspects not closed in Rivals and Retribution and maybe even a peek in to the lives of some of my favorite characters!!
http://tsktskwhattoread2.blogspot.com...
August 10, 2012
3.5 idk there were some things that i didnt lik ...but the best thing bout the series other then Jessie and Pietr is the brotherly relationship between Jessie and Max/Alexi how the boys actualy care about her and are protective of her ..I think its the characters i like the most about the series even though i may not always have liked what happend in the series i always turnd back to liking the chacters but not Marlena and a few others i didnt lik ... i think in this one they could have worked on the ending there are still some small answers that didnt seemd answerd completely to me , makin me kinda wantin another book but there wasnt enough questions that would need answerd for there to be another book (if that makes since) i dont know where there would go with it next not that im opposed id lik another book but idk anyway the last bit of the book seemed a little rushed
August 1, 2012
This is the final book in the 13 to Life series. I have enjoyed this series overall with books 2 and 3 being my most favorite. I really think that 5 books was just too long. The writing definitely wasn't on par with earlier books and I found myself getting increasingly annoyed with characters that I had previously liked.
The book continues with the story of Marlaena and friends (the rival wolf pack in Junction) and at the beginning of the book Pietr is still just human. But people want to change that so they start by setting in motion the kidnapping of Jess. She stayed kidnapped for almost 80 pages and I really thought I would lose it then. I know we needed to get back story on where everyone was at but it just dragged on and on and on.
There is imprinting (give me a break!), a mother/son partnership, two lovers reunited and a cure for the werewolves. The ending was a bit ridiculous - not in the paranormal sense more in how it highlights Jessie's immaturity and it just left me feeling....very blah.
If you've been following the series then you should read this to have some closure, but just don't have your expectations too high. It definitely doesn't compare to past books in the series and was mostly disappointing to me.
The book continues with the story of Marlaena and friends (the rival wolf pack in Junction) and at the beginning of the book Pietr is still just human. But people want to change that so they start by setting in motion the kidnapping of Jess. She stayed kidnapped for almost 80 pages and I really thought I would lose it then. I know we needed to get back story on where everyone was at but it just dragged on and on and on.
There is imprinting (give me a break!), a mother/son partnership, two lovers reunited and a cure for the werewolves. The ending was a bit ridiculous - not in the paranormal sense more in how it highlights Jessie's immaturity and it just left me feeling....very blah.
If you've been following the series then you should read this to have some closure, but just don't have your expectations too high. It definitely doesn't compare to past books in the series and was mostly disappointing to me.
Read
March 13, 2013I decided to read this book is because it really interested because the characters Jessica Gillsman and Peitr Rusakova were so mysterious. Pietr was the one who caught the attention. i really liked the character of his. My favourite quote from this was " you could be a mother hen sometimes" said Max. " I know just as long as my little chickens come back safetly then yes" replied Jess. something I learned from this series is that it could be really hard to leave someone who you love dearly and when they keep on annoying you on that they shouldn't have came because your the one who gets into trouble a lot and you know that they love you too but they don't want you in danger anymore. The quote that i wrote up there is so funny to me. But it also shows that Jess cares about Pietr's family as much as they take care of her and her family. The 2 characters that interested me the most were Jess and Pietr. I really like the way they care about each other and do love each other a lot. but Pietr's character was way more interesting than jess. I really love the pietr's character is mysterious and thriller too.
September 10, 2012
*warning spoilers*
I was not impressed with this book, though I did enjoyed the first three books, this one was just a displeasing finale.
After all the time I invested into this series, the payoff was just not what I wanted. AT ALL. I felt as if the author gave up on the story and rushed the book to the end. And a sense of time, which is a key component in Pietr's DNA, was lost. I had no sense of time. One minute they're building holding cells for Marlaena and Pietr because they're going insane and the next Alexi found the cure.
While I did get my "happy ending" story. I despised the final chapter. Don't try and trick me into thinking Pietr and the Rusakova's weren't real and it was all a figment of Jessica's wild imagination. Horrible, horrible final chapter.
I wanted so dearly to care about Pietr and Jessica's relationship, but I found Jessica becoming increasingly more needy/cling/annoying. The passion between them was lost in the whole "get Pietr's personality back."
Though, I will credit the author for writing a unique werewolf story. One I hadn't seen before.
I was not impressed with this book, though I did enjoyed the first three books, this one was just a displeasing finale.
After all the time I invested into this series, the payoff was just not what I wanted. AT ALL. I felt as if the author gave up on the story and rushed the book to the end. And a sense of time, which is a key component in Pietr's DNA, was lost. I had no sense of time. One minute they're building holding cells for Marlaena and Pietr because they're going insane and the next Alexi found the cure.
While I did get my "happy ending" story. I despised the final chapter. Don't try and trick me into thinking Pietr and the Rusakova's weren't real and it was all a figment of Jessica's wild imagination. Horrible, horrible final chapter.
I wanted so dearly to care about Pietr and Jessica's relationship, but I found Jessica becoming increasingly more needy/cling/annoying. The passion between them was lost in the whole "get Pietr's personality back."
Though, I will credit the author for writing a unique werewolf story. One I hadn't seen before.
April 1, 2014
OMIGOD !!! THIS SERIES IS PERFECTION !!! Pietr is just...GAAAAAHHHHH ! But anyways I hated Marlaena. And when she refused to take the cure I was like "DIS BITCH ! TAKE THE FUCKING CURE !!!!! GERATH WANTS TO BE WITH YOU SERIOUSLY !!!" Cause honestly I liked Gareth. But then she packed her things and hit the road and I was okay with that. But then that last chapter when Jessie was questioning if she fantasized everything that happened and the accident didn't happen and she didn't meet Pietr and shit I was so fucking scared that that was the last twist on the story !!! But then when she saw Pietr in the door frame claiming he had to pee I nearly cried with joy and started laughing. So such a happy ending and I loved this series. It was definitely a little out of my comfort zone because it was about werewolves but it was really good and I recommend it. Even if your not much of a fan of these types of books give it a try. So anyways loved this series and finally a happy ending !!!!
September 24, 2012
Well...
I've been waiting for this book to come out for a little while now and as soon as I got it, I couldnt wait to read it! I desperately hoped that it would make up for the last book, Destiny and Deception... But sadly, I was let down.
I found the last two books in this series to not only be slacking in the characters personalities but also in just the story line in general. Some problems take forever to solve while others (that in my opinion are the ones that should take longer to solve) are solved so quickly it makes me think Shannon was just rushing to get this book over with.
I actually want to give this book only 1 star but I have trouble doing so because I love books 1-3 so much.
I hope others enjoyed it though!
I've been waiting for this book to come out for a little while now and as soon as I got it, I couldnt wait to read it! I desperately hoped that it would make up for the last book, Destiny and Deception... But sadly, I was let down.
I found the last two books in this series to not only be slacking in the characters personalities but also in just the story line in general. Some problems take forever to solve while others (that in my opinion are the ones that should take longer to solve) are solved so quickly it makes me think Shannon was just rushing to get this book over with.
I actually want to give this book only 1 star but I have trouble doing so because I love books 1-3 so much.
I hope others enjoyed it though!
August 13, 2012
The book was a good conclusion to the series. I was expecting more, but we all can't get what we want. Ms. Delany tied up all the lose ends. Not better than the first four books, but a good read. Definitely recommend the series.
September 7, 2012
Worst ending possible! I get where this author was going but to put Jessie and Pieter's relationship on the rocks for two whole books and then not show any of the love they share once all of their trials were ove just sucked it kind of ended abruptly and I was not pleased!
February 10, 2014
Thank god a big happy ending!
I wanted to kill that stupid she wolf Marlaena and wanted to smack Pietrs head against a wall.
Troublesome book but still not enough closure for me...as almost always...I still have questions.
Since i'm mostly satisfied i'll sleep now!
I wanted to kill that stupid she wolf Marlaena and wanted to smack Pietrs head against a wall.
Troublesome book but still not enough closure for me...as almost always...I still have questions.
Since i'm mostly satisfied i'll sleep now!
Want to read
January 12, 2012The cover looks awesome! I can't wait to read this :D
April 10, 2018
**SPOILER ALERT**
Ok, so I wondered how this was going to wrap up in 300 pages. Enough detail to have the story play out, yet room to let your mind fill in the blanks--the way you wanted.
Jessie is kidnapped, taken up the mountain, falls down, triggering Pietr to wolf out and rescue her.
Pietr is really weird thereafter and Marlaena is too...
Pietr & Marlaena imprint on each other and start going mad just before Alexi figures out a cure to stop the imprint and stop the shortened lifespan but still let the wolf come out. Yeah Alexi. He also hooks up with his lady love.
Marlaena and Gareth appear to ride off into the sunset, he took the cure, she didn't. All the pups did too.
Jessie killed Gabe in the barn.
Dimitri was killed out in the woods, not exactly sure by whom.
Jessie relives Dereks life through his memories and gets an understanding of why he was the way he was, as well as learning some valuable lessons that helped her in times of need--and she had plenty! She helped Alexi see that Wanda was manipulated by Derek; and also helped Wanda realize her dream of being a kindergarten teacher.
At the very end Jessie thinks everything was a dream...and then she see's Pietr outside her bedroom door and is confused but realizes he wasn't something she created for her lit assignment.
So hopefully they live happily ever after...!!!
Ok, so I wondered how this was going to wrap up in 300 pages. Enough detail to have the story play out, yet room to let your mind fill in the blanks--the way you wanted.
Jessie is kidnapped, taken up the mountain, falls down, triggering Pietr to wolf out and rescue her.
Pietr is really weird thereafter and Marlaena is too...
Pietr & Marlaena imprint on each other and start going mad just before Alexi figures out a cure to stop the imprint and stop the shortened lifespan but still let the wolf come out. Yeah Alexi. He also hooks up with his lady love.
Marlaena and Gareth appear to ride off into the sunset, he took the cure, she didn't. All the pups did too.
Jessie killed Gabe in the barn.
Dimitri was killed out in the woods, not exactly sure by whom.
Jessie relives Dereks life through his memories and gets an understanding of why he was the way he was, as well as learning some valuable lessons that helped her in times of need--and she had plenty! She helped Alexi see that Wanda was manipulated by Derek; and also helped Wanda realize her dream of being a kindergarten teacher.
At the very end Jessie thinks everything was a dream...and then she see's Pietr outside her bedroom door and is confused but realizes he wasn't something she created for her lit assignment.
So hopefully they live happily ever after...!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2025
This book was just...wow! Okay, so I loved the first book and thought I might as well read the others. And they seemed to get better with each book. And this last book was so hard to put down! Through the whole book I was like HOW IS SHANNON WRITING THIS!?!?!?! The whole imprinting thing drove me nuts. I was dying, but in a good way. Don't listen to anyone who tells you the last book left you disappointed. If you liked all the other books, this finale will not disappoint. The only reason I didn't give it five stars is because I would've liked some more romance between Pietr and Jessie. I know they were already a couple and Pietr was dealing with the imprint thing, but I would've liked to read more kisses. Other than that it was just FABULOUS!! A definite must read
April 17, 2018
I really loved the first three books, I loved how Pietr was. But once he got cured and he became different.. and then that girl Marlaena came into the story. I couldn't stand her! I swear I've been panicking for hours until I finally just finished the book because they had imprinted! I HATE how they did! I felt like my heart kept breaking and breaking! I'm glad Pietr is now cured... but I still feel so upset of what had happened. I don't feel so happy as I should. I wish there was more to the ending between Jessica and Pietr just so I could forget what happened between Pietr and Marlaena.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2020
I loved this book. Once I picked it up, I couldn't put it back down. The entire book felt like one huge climax. I felt like I was always on the edge of my seat. I knew that Pietr and Marlaena would imprint, but the extremes they went to really kept me on edge. Overall I thought this book tied things up nicely. I just wish Cat would've found a love interest like everyone else. I also wished to know what happened to Gareth and the pack after Marlaena left. Did they stay with the Rusakovas, or did they move on?
July 28, 2018
Complete and utter trash
November 1, 2018
No
The first few book were good the last were not. Didn’t like the pietr Jessie dynamic without that would have been better
The first few book were good the last were not. Didn’t like the pietr Jessie dynamic without that would have been better
September 9, 2022
Tengo que decir que me gusto mucho toda la saga "13 To Life" la historia y todos sus personajes a un que me costó un poco entender de que iba la historia.
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