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The Grimm Chronicles #1
The League of Skull & Bones
Jess Grimm has the ability to travel to any dimension in the multiverse. There’s only one problem... it’s killing her.
Jess is a in a race against time to find a device that can slow the progression of the power inside her, but she isn’t alone. Others want her power, and they don’t care how they get, or if she is dead or alive when they do.
The only person willing to help her is the mysterious Ronan Sparrow a member of the League of Skull & Bones, one of the very groups that want her power. But what does Ronan want in return? Can Jess trust him or will she find herself alone with enemies on all sides?
The League of Skull & Bones, Book 1 of The Grimm Chronicles
Jess is a in a race against time to find a device that can slow the progression of the power inside her, but she isn’t alone. Others want her power, and they don’t care how they get, or if she is dead or alive when they do.
The only person willing to help her is the mysterious Ronan Sparrow a member of the League of Skull & Bones, one of the very groups that want her power. But what does Ronan want in return? Can Jess trust him or will she find herself alone with enemies on all sides?
The League of Skull & Bones, Book 1 of The Grimm Chronicles
Unknown Binding
First published October 12, 2013
3 people are currently reading
118 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Fletcher
20 books145 followersMJ Fletcher was born in New Jersey and now lives by the beach with his very understanding wife and daughter. He has been writing since he first stapled pages together as a child and called them a book. He finally realized his ambitions when his comic book series Adam Zero The Last Man of Earth was published by Ronin Studios. His other comic book work includes Digital Webbing Presents and The Hero Initiative. His first novel The Doorknob Society released in 2012 was nominated for a Cybil award in the young adult category. He has continued writing the Doorknob Society Saga his rollicking steampunk adventure series as well as working on numerous other writing projects.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 29, 2014
Okay, first thing’s first; The League of Skull and Bones looked like it’d be bad ass and I was really looking forward to getting to read this book. I signed up for the tour and got my copy only to be disappointed in the outcome. I finished this book a few days ago and I’ve been mulling it over ever since. I know most of my reviews lately have contained nothing but bitching and whining about how the “heroine” annoyed me and how the book disappointed. Well, I’m sorry, but the books I’ve been reading lately have been nothing but a big fat fail!
This story is a bit difficult for me to explain because not much really made sense to me. Jess Grimm is Old Kind, human-like in appearance but since she kept referring to humans as, “the humans,” I’m going with her and her kind aren’t human at all. She possesses what is known in her world as The Artifact, and it’s a powerful… something, that everyone around her covets. The Artifact is killing her, and to slow its progress she needs a device that is known as a Timelock. Following a few leads to its whereabouts, Jess finds herself the target to Nyla Foxglove, who wants The Artifact for herself. She is saved by a man named Ronan Sparrow who belongs to The League of Skull and Bones and just happens to shows up when she needs help the most. When it seems that everyone is after her, dead or alive, Jess needs to be careful of who to trust, but not everyone is as they seem. With the help of her grandmother, Jess infiltrates the League in order to flush out the one aiding Nyla in her quest to gain The Artifact and overthrow the Council.
I would have loved this book.. if I understood what the fuck was going on in the first place. I get Jess’ dilemma; she’s trying to find an item to keep her from dying because this Artifact is literally killing her. But then you start talking about Engineers, and councils, and old kind, and humans, and… there was so much info-dump during the first few pages that my eyes crossed… THEY CROSSED! Never in my book-reading days has that happened to me.. EVER! I got lost during the first 5% and I’m ashamed to admit I never found my way back. Let’s add to that a seemingly annoying female protagonist, a love triangle and a plot “twist” I saw from a mile away and you’ve got one very grumpy reader. I’m pissed at this book!
Jess spent a great deal of the story letting me know how she would never get close to a man or anyone else because of her horrid scars. How she was no longer the beauty queen she once was and how she was better off alone. Sorry, but I fail to garner any kind of sympathy towards her. It is terrible what happened to her to have acquired said scars, but move on honey, everyone has some to live with. She meets two men during this quest to find her timelock; Merric, who is a mystery to all, and Ronan, who is a member of The League. It didn’t matter who she ends up choosing in the end to me because her “feelings” for either were so wishy-washy it’s annoying. Why is there a love triangle? I mean, really! She’s with one dude and can’t stop thinking of the other. When she is told NOT to trust anyone around her, she goes and does just the opposite. I’m not surprised by what ended up happening to her, she made a choice, now she was going to have to deal with it.
The fights were boring simply because they just seemed like a bunch of pissing contests between Jess and Nyla. What are we fifteen? The writing is decent, not bad except for the execution of the story. I’m not continuing with the series, and honestly, I wouldn’t recommend this to anyone. I feel as though there are better stories out there to read than this.
July 12, 2016
4.5 stars!!
My thoughts: Sheesh, talk about a kick ass book with a bad ass heroine!!
The League of Skulls & Bones is normally a book genre that I’d normally pass over. BUT, after seeing the cover and its synopsis I just couldn’t pass up this reviewing opportunity!
I will admit that before coming reading this, it would be beneficial to you readers to first read The Doorknob Society before embarking on this since the main character’s journey really starts from there. You can read TLOS&B (like me) straightaway and still understand what’s going on but I honestly think it’d be in your best interest to get the background info before diving into the meat of this story.
From what I understand, the heroine, Jessica Grimm, was once one of your typical pretty girls in TDKS but in here she goes through a gritty transformation into a hardcore heroine after saving her cousin from a Gremlin attack and learning that she holds a deadly family artifact within herself.
She then embarks on a journey where she then meets The League of Skulls & Bones and gets partnered up with sexy and mysterious Brit operative Ronan Sparrow, and begins a quest to search for a device that may help or even kill her.
What will become of Jess as she begins to embrace her own sacred lineage and destiny? Can she trust Ronan? Or will her journey find herself with even more enemies wanting to use her or kill her? Read and you will find out!!
My verdict: I highly recommend! Like I had said in the beginning, normally stories like these aren’t my cup of tea but TLOS&B made me a fan of this series and MJ Fletcher.
I literally felt like I was on a rollercoaster ride as there is so much thrill, action, and suspense!! The plot and story line was so well-written, the pacing was just right, and the characters were engaging and intriguing. Definitely kept me on my toes!!
2 thumbs way up!
*A review copy was kindly provided by Reading Addiction Virtual Book Tours for the blog tour. My post date is 12/12. ;)
My thoughts: Sheesh, talk about a kick ass book with a bad ass heroine!!
The League of Skulls & Bones is normally a book genre that I’d normally pass over. BUT, after seeing the cover and its synopsis I just couldn’t pass up this reviewing opportunity!
I will admit that before coming reading this, it would be beneficial to you readers to first read The Doorknob Society before embarking on this since the main character’s journey really starts from there. You can read TLOS&B (like me) straightaway and still understand what’s going on but I honestly think it’d be in your best interest to get the background info before diving into the meat of this story.
From what I understand, the heroine, Jessica Grimm, was once one of your typical pretty girls in TDKS but in here she goes through a gritty transformation into a hardcore heroine after saving her cousin from a Gremlin attack and learning that she holds a deadly family artifact within herself.
She then embarks on a journey where she then meets The League of Skulls & Bones and gets partnered up with sexy and mysterious Brit operative Ronan Sparrow, and begins a quest to search for a device that may help or even kill her.
What will become of Jess as she begins to embrace her own sacred lineage and destiny? Can she trust Ronan? Or will her journey find herself with even more enemies wanting to use her or kill her? Read and you will find out!!
My verdict: I highly recommend! Like I had said in the beginning, normally stories like these aren’t my cup of tea but TLOS&B made me a fan of this series and MJ Fletcher.
I literally felt like I was on a rollercoaster ride as there is so much thrill, action, and suspense!! The plot and story line was so well-written, the pacing was just right, and the characters were engaging and intriguing. Definitely kept me on my toes!!
2 thumbs way up!
*A review copy was kindly provided by Reading Addiction Virtual Book Tours for the blog tour. My post date is 12/12. ;)
January 14, 2014
When I saw this was the first book in a new fantasy/steampunk series, I looked forward to jumping into it. I found the book’s synopsis intriguing and couldn’t wait to read Jess’s story. I had not read any of M.J. Fletcher’s other works, and, unfortunately, I didn’t realize until after I had finished the book that it is a spin-off from The Doorknob Society Saga. Although this story can technically stand alone, and, overall, I was able to understand and follow the plot easily, I have to admit that while reading the book, I kept wishing to know more about her past and the experiences that led Jess to become the hardened, scarred young woman who is introduced to us in The League of Skull & Bones. Now, I want to backtrack and read with The Doorknob Society so that I can fully appreciate the creative futuristic fictional world Fletcher has created and have a better understanding of the dramatic transformation that Jess has already gone through when The League of Skull & Bones begins.
Jess Grimm is a member of the Skeleton Key Guild, one of several societies that exist among the “Old Kind,” a human species with the ability to harness energy to open portals and travel among dimensions in this complex, multiversal world. All members of the Guild possess a skeleton key which allows them to access their powers; however, Jess doesn’t need a key because her body has become the vessel itself for “the Artifact,” a great power that has been infused within her.
The skeleton key tattoos embedded in each of her forearms symbolize the potent power she now possesses. Although the author doesn’t go into detail about the circumstances of why and how Jess obtained the Artifact, it seems her powers are superior to those contained in the skeleton keys other members carry. It is also evident that Jess is still struggling to embrace and manage the new power she now wields. While others envy her and long to possess the power within her, she sees the Artifact as a curse since it is literally draining her life force every time she uses it.
The plot centers around Jess’s journey to find a Timelock, a rare and illegal piece of technology that can stop the Artifact from burning her out and eventually killing her. The entire story is narrated from Jess’s POV and, while it limits our understanding of other events taking place and we aren’t able to get insight into any other characters’ thoughts and motivations, her POV is effective in building angst and suspense as Jess struggles to figure out whom she can really trust. Both her grandmother, head of the Old Kind Council, and her mentor/trainer, DeAndre, keep warning her to be wary of others and to question everyone’s motives.
Although I missed out on understanding how Jess’s life used to be, she refers to herself as being a changed woman, one who carries both physical and emotional scars from what she’s endured from the past. The Jess I meet is a strong heroine whose intelligence, skill, and kick-ass power have made her a valuable member of the Council’s special teams who are tasked with hunting down criminals. After fighting in an Old Kind war, Jess has earned the reputation of being a skilled fighter and killer; by her name alone, she is both feared and revered by others of her race.
Jess is still haunted by nightmares of a gruesome attack and tends to keep her personal distance from others. The scars that mar her body are one main reason she avoids relationships, although two men who are featured in the book, Merric and Ronan, will eventually cause her to reconsider her need for the comfort and support a personal relationship can offer.
In her journey to save her own life, Jess discovers a ruthless enemy, Nyla Foxglove, is scheming for a way to take Jess’s power from her regardless of the repercussions. Nyla is a tauntingly evil antagonist whose arrogance and self-serving needs make her easy to immediately dislike. In order to defeat Nyla, Jess infiltrates The League of Skull & Bones, a secretive and elite group of enforcers the Council uses to do their “dirty work” in order to find out who among the Council is allied with Nyla and her plans for a coup.
This first book in the Grimm Chronicles is full of mystery, suspenseful action, and a slight touch of romance all rolled up into a well-crafted plot with one heck of a shocking cliff-hanger ending that left me reeling at the end!
The book was an enjoyable read, but I still wish more details about Jess’s backstory were included to help me connect with her more easily and see the full depth of her character. However, I also realize that including this exposition would be redundant for those readers who have already been following The Doorknob Society saga and want to continue the journey by reading The Grimm Chronicles. This first book shows a promising start to this imaginative new series.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 16, 2013
This book was given to me by PRATR and the author for an honest review. The League of Skull and Bones is the first in a new series entitled the Grimm Chronicles by MJ Fletcher. It is a futuristic steam punk fantasy ride. This book is a spin off of MJ Fletcher's Doorknob Society novels (of which there are five) however it is not necessary to read the previous novels to understand and enjoy this book. I enjoyed the League of Skull & Bones very much and look forward to reading the next book in the series, A Conclave of Shadows.
The main character in this book is Jessica Grimm. She is a Skeleton Key Guild member who is revered as a very effective killing machine having victoriously fought in the war between the Old Kind and the First Kind. The Old Kind is made up of different societies of people who are governed by The Council of Old Kind, which happens to be led by Jessica's grandmother, Maura Grimm. Jessica's grandmother is also leader of the Quorum that rules the Skeleton Key Guild. The Skeleton Key guild members possess magical use of weapons via their tattoos on their forearms, their skeleton keys. Jessica is a little different in most in that she also possesses the Artifact. The Artifact makes Jessica nearly invincible, it is a power that Jessica can call upon to assist her or protect her during a fight/threat. Jessica is a loner who has isolated herself from her friends after having fought in the war and obtained some nasty scars. There are few that she trusts, of which are: Michael Slade, Jr. her partner in the Skeleton Guild and an Impossible Engineer (inventors who build gadgets); Edgar, a mapmaker who plots out the many dimensions of their futuristic world enabling them to get around, Maura, Jessica's grandmother, and DeAndre Morgan, her “handler” or trainer.
Although the Artifact can be a lethal weapon and protects Jessica at the same time she states it is slowly killing her. The Artifact is seen as the most powerful weapon of the Old Kind and control of it places Jessica in the line of fire. Nyla Foxglove is a Skeleton Key member who is out to take the Artifact away from Jessica in a play for power. Ronan Sparrow is a League of Skull & Bones member who comes to Jessica's rescue during an attack by Nyla. The League of Skull & Bones is an elite group of trained mercenaries used by the Council of Old Kind to rid them of their “problems.” Jessica joins the League in the hopes of flushing out Nyla's accomplice in her play for power/control.
Jessica is attracted to Ronan but is not sure she can trust him. Then there is another character name Merric Vale who is an mysterious character who calms and connects with Jessica like no other. Jessica is on a mission to try to stop Nyla from attaining the Artifact for her evil use, however she is unsure of who to trust. This book is a very fast paced ride. I really liked Merric and would like to hear more of him in the future. I anticipate his role becoming larger in future installments. It's disappointing to me that the book ends in a cliffhanger, because I really want to know what comes next! I will have to get book two and read it and soon! This book would best be enjoyed by the adult reader who enjoys fantasy and/or steam punk. On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being the best, I give this book a 7/10.
The main character in this book is Jessica Grimm. She is a Skeleton Key Guild member who is revered as a very effective killing machine having victoriously fought in the war between the Old Kind and the First Kind. The Old Kind is made up of different societies of people who are governed by The Council of Old Kind, which happens to be led by Jessica's grandmother, Maura Grimm. Jessica's grandmother is also leader of the Quorum that rules the Skeleton Key Guild. The Skeleton Key guild members possess magical use of weapons via their tattoos on their forearms, their skeleton keys. Jessica is a little different in most in that she also possesses the Artifact. The Artifact makes Jessica nearly invincible, it is a power that Jessica can call upon to assist her or protect her during a fight/threat. Jessica is a loner who has isolated herself from her friends after having fought in the war and obtained some nasty scars. There are few that she trusts, of which are: Michael Slade, Jr. her partner in the Skeleton Guild and an Impossible Engineer (inventors who build gadgets); Edgar, a mapmaker who plots out the many dimensions of their futuristic world enabling them to get around, Maura, Jessica's grandmother, and DeAndre Morgan, her “handler” or trainer.
Although the Artifact can be a lethal weapon and protects Jessica at the same time she states it is slowly killing her. The Artifact is seen as the most powerful weapon of the Old Kind and control of it places Jessica in the line of fire. Nyla Foxglove is a Skeleton Key member who is out to take the Artifact away from Jessica in a play for power. Ronan Sparrow is a League of Skull & Bones member who comes to Jessica's rescue during an attack by Nyla. The League of Skull & Bones is an elite group of trained mercenaries used by the Council of Old Kind to rid them of their “problems.” Jessica joins the League in the hopes of flushing out Nyla's accomplice in her play for power/control.
Jessica is attracted to Ronan but is not sure she can trust him. Then there is another character name Merric Vale who is an mysterious character who calms and connects with Jessica like no other. Jessica is on a mission to try to stop Nyla from attaining the Artifact for her evil use, however she is unsure of who to trust. This book is a very fast paced ride. I really liked Merric and would like to hear more of him in the future. I anticipate his role becoming larger in future installments. It's disappointing to me that the book ends in a cliffhanger, because I really want to know what comes next! I will have to get book two and read it and soon! This book would best be enjoyed by the adult reader who enjoys fantasy and/or steam punk. On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being the best, I give this book a 7/10.
November 11, 2013
Review: 4 out of 5 stars
The Grimm Chronicles in a spin-off series to The Doorknob Society saga. This review may contain possible spoilers from the first series.
We first meet Jessica Grimm in MJ Fletcher’s The Doorknob Society saga and whilst I do feel this book can be read without reading the saga as enough background information is given I do think it would be beneficial to read his first books so that you do get the complete story to find out more about the other characters and what has happened to Jess to cause her to be the toughened, kick-butt character she now is.
Jess has gone through a drastic transformation, once popular and defined as the ‘pretty girl’ she is now covered in scars and tattoos; a result of Gremlin attacks she endured to save her cousin, she is also the holder of the Grimm family artifact which is a power she holds within herself and is slowly killing her; in this book we see her in search of a device which will hopefully help her but could also mean her demise.
Jess is hardened, fierce and snarky and whilst I appreciated the changes, the softness was all gone and it was now all business as she learns more about her growing powers and her destiny. I felt I was reading about a completely different character to who I had previously known and whilst I think it was a good thing; my heart broke for what she was going through and for the constant nightmares and struggles she now faces.
When Jess decides to join the League of Skull and Bones, a secretive group that carries out the Guilds more unsavoury business to get insider information, she is partnered with gorgeous, British league operative Ronan Sparrow who I didn’t know from the onset whether he could be trusted or not; mainly because of a comment made by another character so he was a bit of a question mark; who I did adore though was Merric who was one big mystery, I am eager to learn more about him and have my fingers crossed we will have another love interest.
The League of Skull & Bones was a roller-coaster of a book! It was fast-paced and filled with wonderful action sequences and danger as we see Jess search for Nyla Foxglove, a villain written to perfection and targeting Jess and those closest to her – her sole purpose to take over the Guild; it was go go go and a thrilling adventure as we learn more about the artifact and Jess’s powers which she is slowly discovering more about, the twists and turns were aplenty.
We see a few characters make an appearance from The Doorknob Society, I still adore Slade and Edgar is fabulous as per norm but I was also saddened a few characters I have come to love were no shows; hopefully we’ll see them in upcoming installments.
Oh my gosh! Fletcher has written a doozy of an ending that literally has me needing the next book stat; I was left gaping and devastated by the turn of events which I won’t reveal to avoid spoilers but it was a twist I never saw coming.
Overall, despite a few minor flaws, The League of Skull & Bones is a wonderfully written, action-packed thrill ride which has left me more than eager to read the next installment.
Thank-you kindly to M.J Fletcher for providing me with a copy of The League of Skull & Bones to read and review.
The Grimm Chronicles in a spin-off series to The Doorknob Society saga. This review may contain possible spoilers from the first series.
We first meet Jessica Grimm in MJ Fletcher’s The Doorknob Society saga and whilst I do feel this book can be read without reading the saga as enough background information is given I do think it would be beneficial to read his first books so that you do get the complete story to find out more about the other characters and what has happened to Jess to cause her to be the toughened, kick-butt character she now is.
Jess has gone through a drastic transformation, once popular and defined as the ‘pretty girl’ she is now covered in scars and tattoos; a result of Gremlin attacks she endured to save her cousin, she is also the holder of the Grimm family artifact which is a power she holds within herself and is slowly killing her; in this book we see her in search of a device which will hopefully help her but could also mean her demise.
Jess is hardened, fierce and snarky and whilst I appreciated the changes, the softness was all gone and it was now all business as she learns more about her growing powers and her destiny. I felt I was reading about a completely different character to who I had previously known and whilst I think it was a good thing; my heart broke for what she was going through and for the constant nightmares and struggles she now faces.
When Jess decides to join the League of Skull and Bones, a secretive group that carries out the Guilds more unsavoury business to get insider information, she is partnered with gorgeous, British league operative Ronan Sparrow who I didn’t know from the onset whether he could be trusted or not; mainly because of a comment made by another character so he was a bit of a question mark; who I did adore though was Merric who was one big mystery, I am eager to learn more about him and have my fingers crossed we will have another love interest.
The League of Skull & Bones was a roller-coaster of a book! It was fast-paced and filled with wonderful action sequences and danger as we see Jess search for Nyla Foxglove, a villain written to perfection and targeting Jess and those closest to her – her sole purpose to take over the Guild; it was go go go and a thrilling adventure as we learn more about the artifact and Jess’s powers which she is slowly discovering more about, the twists and turns were aplenty.
We see a few characters make an appearance from The Doorknob Society, I still adore Slade and Edgar is fabulous as per norm but I was also saddened a few characters I have come to love were no shows; hopefully we’ll see them in upcoming installments.
Oh my gosh! Fletcher has written a doozy of an ending that literally has me needing the next book stat; I was left gaping and devastated by the turn of events which I won’t reveal to avoid spoilers but it was a twist I never saw coming.
Overall, despite a few minor flaws, The League of Skull & Bones is a wonderfully written, action-packed thrill ride which has left me more than eager to read the next installment.
Thank-you kindly to M.J Fletcher for providing me with a copy of The League of Skull & Bones to read and review.
August 5, 2015
I give this 3 stars.
This series is a spinoff from the DoorKnob Society saga, which I have to say I really enjoyed, in spite of the many grammar and spelling errors. I must recommend that in order to fully appreciate this story, one should read the DS Saga since some details are assumed to be understood.
Jessica Grimm, the main character in this series, was one of my favorite supporting characters in the DS Saga so I was really looking forward to seeing her character develop more.
I was disappointed. I didn't like the start of this series. Because this is a spinoff, and I have read the DS Saga, it’s very hard not to compare the quality of the two series. I’ll do my best to stay focused on A League of Skull and Bones.
This book centers around Jess. The main of objective is her needing to find a Timelock and that gets boring without the rest of the dynamic crew from the previous saga. I couldn’t really get into the new characters, although Merric being shrouded in mystery did keep my intrigue up.
Sadly, foreshadowing was painfully obvious to me. There were also character and world building inconsistencies between the two series that bothered me. There was a point where I asked myself if the same author wrote this. It felt like the author rushed through this. It wasn’t as beautifully and dynamically crafted as the Door Knob Society Series, though I believe it has the same potential.
I went into this book with the expectation that there would be an adventure driven plot, some creative world building and a little angsty romance. Yes, there was non-stop action, but the world building was minimal and the romance turned out to be lust and physical gratification motivated by insecurities.
It’s definitely not young adult. The DS Saga had some implied sex scenes as the doors closed. I really appreciated that aspect and think it added to the intensity of the romance since it was not based solely on a physical element of attraction. Also, her feelings for either person were so wishy-washy and naive that it was exhausting and irritating.
This book centers around Jessica’s mental, emotional and physical change from a popular, well-put together social butterfly to a physically scarred, tattooed and hardened killer fighting for her life.
In the end though, it was all about having enough confidence to jump in bed and still be able to turn heads, while searching for a piece of technology that could save her life. She was portrayed previously as being smart, strong and confident. Her inner dialogue here was repetitive, shallow, and conflicting. Also, her inner voice sounded too much like Chloe’s, the main character of DS.
Honestly, I think MJ Fletcher needs to work out the inconsistencies and depth of Jess’ character a wee bit more. Again, it has all the same potential as the DS Saga. Come on, MJ, I know you can make this better. I’m hoping that some of these things will be addressed and redeemed in the next book, A Conclave of Shadows.
At this point though, The Door Knob Society is better by far and I recommend reading it before starting this book.
This series is a spinoff from the DoorKnob Society saga, which I have to say I really enjoyed, in spite of the many grammar and spelling errors. I must recommend that in order to fully appreciate this story, one should read the DS Saga since some details are assumed to be understood.
Jessica Grimm, the main character in this series, was one of my favorite supporting characters in the DS Saga so I was really looking forward to seeing her character develop more.
I was disappointed. I didn't like the start of this series. Because this is a spinoff, and I have read the DS Saga, it’s very hard not to compare the quality of the two series. I’ll do my best to stay focused on A League of Skull and Bones.
This book centers around Jess. The main of objective is her needing to find a Timelock and that gets boring without the rest of the dynamic crew from the previous saga. I couldn’t really get into the new characters, although Merric being shrouded in mystery did keep my intrigue up.
Sadly, foreshadowing was painfully obvious to me. There were also character and world building inconsistencies between the two series that bothered me. There was a point where I asked myself if the same author wrote this. It felt like the author rushed through this. It wasn’t as beautifully and dynamically crafted as the Door Knob Society Series, though I believe it has the same potential.
I went into this book with the expectation that there would be an adventure driven plot, some creative world building and a little angsty romance. Yes, there was non-stop action, but the world building was minimal and the romance turned out to be lust and physical gratification motivated by insecurities.
It’s definitely not young adult. The DS Saga had some implied sex scenes as the doors closed. I really appreciated that aspect and think it added to the intensity of the romance since it was not based solely on a physical element of attraction. Also, her feelings for either person were so wishy-washy and naive that it was exhausting and irritating.
This book centers around Jessica’s mental, emotional and physical change from a popular, well-put together social butterfly to a physically scarred, tattooed and hardened killer fighting for her life.
In the end though, it was all about having enough confidence to jump in bed and still be able to turn heads, while searching for a piece of technology that could save her life. She was portrayed previously as being smart, strong and confident. Her inner dialogue here was repetitive, shallow, and conflicting. Also, her inner voice sounded too much like Chloe’s, the main character of DS.
Honestly, I think MJ Fletcher needs to work out the inconsistencies and depth of Jess’ character a wee bit more. Again, it has all the same potential as the DS Saga. Come on, MJ, I know you can make this better. I’m hoping that some of these things will be addressed and redeemed in the next book, A Conclave of Shadows.
At this point though, The Door Knob Society is better by far and I recommend reading it before starting this book.
June 11, 2015
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What happens when you sacrifice yourself to save your family and the rest of your kind? Jessica Grimm finds that out, and it isn't pleasant. She now is attached to an artifact that is killing her and is now on the chase for a Timelock that may help her save her life. The only problem is, there is someone who wants the artifact and will do anything to get it. So Jessica now has to take major risks and learn to trust someone other than her closest friends. The only thing is, does she trust the right people?
Jessica is on the chase, trying to find the person who is attacking the people that are dear to her. In order to do that though, she needs to join the League of Skull & Bones. She knows that someone on the inside is a traitor; it's just trying to find out who that is. While looking for this, she starts to feel things for 2 different men, things she hasn't felt in a long time.
First there is Merric Vale, he is a complete mystery, and people are telling Jessica to stay away because he's dangerous. However, whenever she is around him, she feels safe and protected. She’s seen him at his worst, and still she isn’t afraid of him.
Then there is Ronan. He looks at her like he doesn’t see the scars, he just sees her. And she likes it. He has shown that he is interested in her, but can she trust him? He is a part of the League that is feeding information to the enemy, is he a part of it? Or is he unaware of what is actually going on?
Will Jessica finally be able to trust enough to let someone new in? Will she be able to defeat the threat against her?
This was my first steam punk novel and I was not disappointed. This was a fast paced book that was very hard to put down. Throughout the story, you're constantly guessing what's going to happen next, or who the one responsible is. And at the end, you get a major surprise that throws you off balance and wanting more. I'm looking forward to what happens next to Jessica Grimm.
What happens when you sacrifice yourself to save your family and the rest of your kind? Jessica Grimm finds that out, and it isn't pleasant. She now is attached to an artifact that is killing her and is now on the chase for a Timelock that may help her save her life. The only problem is, there is someone who wants the artifact and will do anything to get it. So Jessica now has to take major risks and learn to trust someone other than her closest friends. The only thing is, does she trust the right people?
Jessica is on the chase, trying to find the person who is attacking the people that are dear to her. In order to do that though, she needs to join the League of Skull & Bones. She knows that someone on the inside is a traitor; it's just trying to find out who that is. While looking for this, she starts to feel things for 2 different men, things she hasn't felt in a long time.
First there is Merric Vale, he is a complete mystery, and people are telling Jessica to stay away because he's dangerous. However, whenever she is around him, she feels safe and protected. She’s seen him at his worst, and still she isn’t afraid of him.
Then there is Ronan. He looks at her like he doesn’t see the scars, he just sees her. And she likes it. He has shown that he is interested in her, but can she trust him? He is a part of the League that is feeding information to the enemy, is he a part of it? Or is he unaware of what is actually going on?
Will Jessica finally be able to trust enough to let someone new in? Will she be able to defeat the threat against her?
This was my first steam punk novel and I was not disappointed. This was a fast paced book that was very hard to put down. Throughout the story, you're constantly guessing what's going to happen next, or who the one responsible is. And at the end, you get a major surprise that throws you off balance and wanting more. I'm looking forward to what happens next to Jessica Grimm.
August 9, 2016
When I first began the book I wasn't quite sure what way it was going or what it was about. As I read more,I became engrossed in the intrigue and adventure.
Jess is a strong but insecure character. Oxymoronic to say that isn't it?? Well let me explain. She is a heroine in her own right. Strong in how she has overcome adversity and has fought valiantly for her people. Strong in her protection of her family even going as far as saving one from taking on the family protection of the key. Strong in how she loves the friends that she kept close to her. Strong in her convictions and beliefs. Insecure in who she is because of the scars and nightmares from the war. insecure in her ability to read men. Insecure in how she sees Merric and Ronnan. insecure in her thoughts that anyone could see her as attractive.
Overall a wonderful character because she isn't perfect. She should follow her instincts more though.
Merric: a very enigmatic character. I wanted to cry for him when he finally opened up to Jess and felt betrayed. You know he has feelings for Jess and she has them for him as well but is fearful of acting upon them. Although she follows up on her feelings for Ronnan. Bad bad consequences from that one. Merric protects her and saves her many times. Although Merric is enigmatic you are drawn to him. He likes Jess but feels she needs to learn things on her own and follow the journey she needs to become more of who she is and be stronger.
Ronnan: Although gorgeous he is a snake. He can be charismatic and kind but is still a wolf in sheeps clothing.
The story: intriguing and engrossing. Will keep you guessing and wanting more. I love the scene where Jess escape the dimension and where Merric finally opens up. The writing style will capture you into the storyline and not let you go.
A story of finding oneself while solving a mystery. Of becoming a stronger person and learning about betrayal and trust. A wonderful intriguing mystery and I look forward to seeing if Jess comes out of this stronger and alive.
Jess is a strong but insecure character. Oxymoronic to say that isn't it?? Well let me explain. She is a heroine in her own right. Strong in how she has overcome adversity and has fought valiantly for her people. Strong in her protection of her family even going as far as saving one from taking on the family protection of the key. Strong in how she loves the friends that she kept close to her. Strong in her convictions and beliefs. Insecure in who she is because of the scars and nightmares from the war. insecure in her ability to read men. Insecure in how she sees Merric and Ronnan. insecure in her thoughts that anyone could see her as attractive.
Overall a wonderful character because she isn't perfect. She should follow her instincts more though.
Merric: a very enigmatic character. I wanted to cry for him when he finally opened up to Jess and felt betrayed. You know he has feelings for Jess and she has them for him as well but is fearful of acting upon them. Although she follows up on her feelings for Ronnan. Bad bad consequences from that one. Merric protects her and saves her many times. Although Merric is enigmatic you are drawn to him. He likes Jess but feels she needs to learn things on her own and follow the journey she needs to become more of who she is and be stronger.
Ronnan: Although gorgeous he is a snake. He can be charismatic and kind but is still a wolf in sheeps clothing.
The story: intriguing and engrossing. Will keep you guessing and wanting more. I love the scene where Jess escape the dimension and where Merric finally opens up. The writing style will capture you into the storyline and not let you go.
A story of finding oneself while solving a mystery. Of becoming a stronger person and learning about betrayal and trust. A wonderful intriguing mystery and I look forward to seeing if Jess comes out of this stronger and alive.
January 1, 2014
Another series from the author of The Doorknob Society! However, this series is actually a spin-off of The Doorknob Society which to be honest I just hoped for another story, another world, mainly because MJ Fletcher has this really creative way with plots and I know that it wouldn't have been a disappointed. Nonetheless, the story was still good and thrilling but had some flaws here and there that kinda lessened my overall rating and enjoyment of the story.
The plot was really fun to read and original, I liked how action-packed it all through the story, leaves you no space to get bored. However, I just keep picking up on similarities between this story and The Doorknob Society series which is, I have to say was my favorite. What I didn't like about this book was the fact that reading Jess's character, I found her personality to be somewhat similar to this of Chloe's which was such a disappointment. They were both the same kind of bad-ass female characters, at least to me. I just expected a new character - bad-ass yes but different - and although I loved Jess's character but it was close to reading another story with a similar main character. The romantic aspect was cute, still not fully clear so I can't wait to read the next book to find out but there were new characters, some whom were the mysterious type of guys and whatnot but I liked the characters. And I totally found the delimma that was facing Jess and endangering her life to be interesting.
Overall, I still enjoyed the story and I am planning on reading the next book. And although I wasn't pulled into the story as much I hoped to, I went through the pages of this book like a maniac. Fast-paced, action-packed story with an original plot and an ending that was such a cliffhanger but it was also exciting and slightly unpredictable. And so again, for all of those who loves reading fantasy novels, I would say to give this book a try.
The plot was really fun to read and original, I liked how action-packed it all through the story, leaves you no space to get bored. However, I just keep picking up on similarities between this story and The Doorknob Society series which is, I have to say was my favorite. What I didn't like about this book was the fact that reading Jess's character, I found her personality to be somewhat similar to this of Chloe's which was such a disappointment. They were both the same kind of bad-ass female characters, at least to me. I just expected a new character - bad-ass yes but different - and although I loved Jess's character but it was close to reading another story with a similar main character. The romantic aspect was cute, still not fully clear so I can't wait to read the next book to find out but there were new characters, some whom were the mysterious type of guys and whatnot but I liked the characters. And I totally found the delimma that was facing Jess and endangering her life to be interesting.
Overall, I still enjoyed the story and I am planning on reading the next book. And although I wasn't pulled into the story as much I hoped to, I went through the pages of this book like a maniac. Fast-paced, action-packed story with an original plot and an ending that was such a cliffhanger but it was also exciting and slightly unpredictable. And so again, for all of those who loves reading fantasy novels, I would say to give this book a try.
January 15, 2014
I received this book from the author in exchange for and honest review.
While The League of Skull & Bones is book one of the Grimm Chronicles, the characters are featured in an earlier series called The Doorknob Society Saga. While I don't think it's completely necessary to read that series first, I recommend it. I haven't read it, and I felt a bit overwhelmed at times while reading this book. Jessica's prior adventures sound so exciting, I can't wait to read them.
Part romance, part action-adventure, part steampunk with never a dull moment just about sums up this novel. Even though I was lost at times, I still enjoyed the unique and intricate plot. I'm adding all of The Doorknob Society Saga to my TBR list and will probably reread this one when I finish the others. I love the fantasy world M.J. Fletcher has created that parallels the human world. It is really quite fascinating.
Jess is a great, kick-ass female protagonist. She is a fighter through and through, as well as a survivor. Not only that but she's intelligent and witty. Jess is surrounded by espionage and intrigue. Poor girl doesn't know who she can trust. After surviving a horrific attack, she's left with both physical and emotional scars that haunt her on a daily basis.
For a girl who thinks she bears disgusting scars, she seems to have two very attractive men interested in her. Although, she doesn't feel like she can trust either one of them. She is partnered with Ronan to hunt down the woman after her power. He is rather blatant in his advances. I never liked the guy and found it rather annoying when Jess softened to him. I much prefer the powerful and enigmatic Merric.
Alas, this novel ends in one heck of a cliffhanger, so be prepared going in. If you like non-stop action in an intriguing world, add The League of Skull & Bones to your TBR list. Note- I recommend this one for ages 18+ due to mature content.
While The League of Skull & Bones is book one of the Grimm Chronicles, the characters are featured in an earlier series called The Doorknob Society Saga. While I don't think it's completely necessary to read that series first, I recommend it. I haven't read it, and I felt a bit overwhelmed at times while reading this book. Jessica's prior adventures sound so exciting, I can't wait to read them.
Part romance, part action-adventure, part steampunk with never a dull moment just about sums up this novel. Even though I was lost at times, I still enjoyed the unique and intricate plot. I'm adding all of The Doorknob Society Saga to my TBR list and will probably reread this one when I finish the others. I love the fantasy world M.J. Fletcher has created that parallels the human world. It is really quite fascinating.
Jess is a great, kick-ass female protagonist. She is a fighter through and through, as well as a survivor. Not only that but she's intelligent and witty. Jess is surrounded by espionage and intrigue. Poor girl doesn't know who she can trust. After surviving a horrific attack, she's left with both physical and emotional scars that haunt her on a daily basis.
For a girl who thinks she bears disgusting scars, she seems to have two very attractive men interested in her. Although, she doesn't feel like she can trust either one of them. She is partnered with Ronan to hunt down the woman after her power. He is rather blatant in his advances. I never liked the guy and found it rather annoying when Jess softened to him. I much prefer the powerful and enigmatic Merric.
Alas, this novel ends in one heck of a cliffhanger, so be prepared going in. If you like non-stop action in an intriguing world, add The League of Skull & Bones to your TBR list. Note- I recommend this one for ages 18+ due to mature content.
February 23, 2014
I love steam-punk novels because I know that I will never be disappointed. For this book that was exactly what it was, I was not disappointed at all. M.J. Fletcher captured my attention right from the beginning and held onto me till the very end.
I felt the book was fast-paced for me. Everything flowed perfectly well and by the end it left me wanting more. I feel that it being also an ebook also helped with that but besides that the story was a great NA read. I feel that every NA book that I have been reading have been more than great.
Jess is a girl who I feel has major trusting issues. However, after reading what she goes through in her life, I would too. She learns to trust people that come into the story later on in throughout the book and Nyla is not helping her. But which evil character helps the main character anyway. I feel she was a good villain and these two characters are what made the story even more exciting.
Overall this book is a great read for someone who is looking for kick-ass heroine and a story full of action and adventure. I will totally be checking out this author and her books and I recommend you do the same.
I give this book 4 bites!
I felt the book was fast-paced for me. Everything flowed perfectly well and by the end it left me wanting more. I feel that it being also an ebook also helped with that but besides that the story was a great NA read. I feel that every NA book that I have been reading have been more than great.
Jess is a girl who I feel has major trusting issues. However, after reading what she goes through in her life, I would too. She learns to trust people that come into the story later on in throughout the book and Nyla is not helping her. But which evil character helps the main character anyway. I feel she was a good villain and these two characters are what made the story even more exciting.
Overall this book is a great read for someone who is looking for kick-ass heroine and a story full of action and adventure. I will totally be checking out this author and her books and I recommend you do the same.
I give this book 4 bites!
December 23, 2013
Jess is a very interesting female lead. Scarred out of her initial image of herself – the pretty girl that always looks perfect and finds flirting easy, she is now focused on fighting. For her friends, for her life, for what she considers to be right. Trapped between the “I don’t do boyfriends” mantra, her need to reconcile with how she sees herself now, and the need to not be alone, Jess makes a shaky way through a dark world of paranormal abilities, never quite knowing who to trust.
Merric, the enigmatic bar owner with unknown powers and a mystery of a past, was by far my favorite male in the story. The one who does not promise or offer help, yet is there right on cue, I found myself rooting for him from the first moment he was introduced.
The evil woman in the story, Nyla, with her signature flowers and a need to go after everyone, was a great choice of opponent for Jess. Add that to traveling through dimensions, powerful devices, factions that all have their own interests. and time running out, and you have yourself a nice thrill traveling alongside Jess.
Merric, the enigmatic bar owner with unknown powers and a mystery of a past, was by far my favorite male in the story. The one who does not promise or offer help, yet is there right on cue, I found myself rooting for him from the first moment he was introduced.
The evil woman in the story, Nyla, with her signature flowers and a need to go after everyone, was a great choice of opponent for Jess. Add that to traveling through dimensions, powerful devices, factions that all have their own interests. and time running out, and you have yourself a nice thrill traveling alongside Jess.
August 26, 2015
This is a spinoff from The Doorknob Society books, to where you are now following Jessica Grimm in her adventures instead of her cousin, Chloe Masters.
Jess needs to find a way to keep the Artifact from killing her, as well as figure out who is after her for the Artifact. She trusts no one, how can she when they all seem to want something from her?
Can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Jess needs to find a way to keep the Artifact from killing her, as well as figure out who is after her for the Artifact. She trusts no one, how can she when they all seem to want something from her?
Can't wait to read the next book in this series.
January 22, 2014
The ending took me by surprise and beleive me when I say It does't happen often mostly I can tell what's going to happen after reading the first 30 or 40 pages but this time it was different not the fact i expected that but the way it was presented was just gr8
full review coming soon
full review coming soon
January 5, 2014
Gah I hate cliffhanger. fill review to come on the 13th
July 1, 2014
Good start to Jess' series, but the cliffhanger was brutal!! Where's Book 2??
November 18, 2014
Amazing! As usual M.J. Fletcher did not disappoint in this book!
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