What do you think?
Rate this book
Legacy of Shadows #1
Cinders of Yesterday
Dani Black—smart mouthed, pie loving, monster hunter—wants revenge.
A year ago the rogue Necromancer, Spectre, killed her partner. She's been looking for a way to kill him—and keep him dead—ever since. So when rumors surface of a weapon capable of killing anything, she sets off for Dawson Maryland. The only problem? Dawson Maryland might be home to more than just the ever enchanting daughter of a prominent magical family, Emilie Lockgrove. It might also hold clues to Dani's past.
Dani plans to kill Spectre, or die trying.
Emilie Lockgrove—book lover, powerless, nomal—wants answers.
Ten years ago, she survived the fire that killed her mother. Now Emilie has returned to Dawson expecting to confront the trauma of her past, and find peace. What she finds instead? A power she never knew she had and enough family secrets to drown in.
Emilie just wants to reclaim the life stolen from her after the fire.
To survive, each must confront her past, and maybe find hope for the future.
To survive, they'll need to work together to confront their past, break the spell holding back Emilie's magic, and destroy Spectre once and for all.
A year ago the rogue Necromancer, Spectre, killed her partner. She's been looking for a way to kill him—and keep him dead—ever since. So when rumors surface of a weapon capable of killing anything, she sets off for Dawson Maryland. The only problem? Dawson Maryland might be home to more than just the ever enchanting daughter of a prominent magical family, Emilie Lockgrove. It might also hold clues to Dani's past.
Dani plans to kill Spectre, or die trying.
Emilie Lockgrove—book lover, powerless, nomal—wants answers.
Ten years ago, she survived the fire that killed her mother. Now Emilie has returned to Dawson expecting to confront the trauma of her past, and find peace. What she finds instead? A power she never knew she had and enough family secrets to drown in.
Emilie just wants to reclaim the life stolen from her after the fire.
To survive, each must confront her past, and maybe find hope for the future.
To survive, they'll need to work together to confront their past, break the spell holding back Emilie's magic, and destroy Spectre once and for all.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2021
22 people are currently reading
732 people want to read
About the author
Jen Karner
2 books112 followersJen Karner is a queer writer who never attended college but still did the required reading. A feminist banshee, she enjoys horror movies, tabletop games, and debating about her many fandoms. When she isn't writing, you can find her pretending to catch up on her TBR list, trying to convince her dog to love her best, or watching D&D shows.
Jen was raised in the Baltimore suburbs, where she devoured as many books as possible and spent her afternoons running amuck in the woods. She lives in Maryland with her nesting partner, their dog, and a growing number of plants.
Jen was raised in the Baltimore suburbs, where she devoured as many books as possible and spent her afternoons running amuck in the woods. She lives in Maryland with her nesting partner, their dog, and a growing number of plants.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
July 13, 2021
3.50 Stars. I feel a bit conflicted about this one. I liked parts of this but there wasn’t anything here that I really loved. I think it is slightly above average story that wasn’t quite what I was hoping for, but on the other hand I would consider giving its sequel a read. I love paranormal books so much that I can be a bit picky with them so if you like this genre this may fit you better than it did me.
I had a lot of trouble with this one to start with. The beginning did not catch me at all. I actually picked this book up 4 different times but I just kept putting it down and moving to something else. I really thought this would be a DNF, but then I noticed that a couple of my Goodreads friends ended up enjoying this. I also don’t like to DNF review copies so I pushed through and in the end I’m glad I did. I never did connect to this book in the way I hoped, but it did get better as the book went on and it would not have deserved a DNF from me.
I’m not a huge fan of paranormal or fantasy books where a main character is pretty special in some way yet they don’t know it yet. Well that part doesn’t bother me so much, since I’m used to it in these types of books, but what bothers me is when the main character doesn’t know anything, but everyone else does. Family, friends, whoever, they are all in on the secret yet they won’t give answers because it’s not the right time, or the quest isn’t finished, or whatever. And because no one will give any answers, the main character is running around like a chicken with no head and they keep getting hurt or almost dying. Sometimes this idea can work, but it also can really drive me nuts. So you might imagine that I was not the biggest fan of this being a major plot point in this book. However, I have to give the author credit because while they choose this annoying “special person who is in the dark about why” fantasy trope, they actually gave a real reason for it. They reason the character could not know why actually makes some sense and it ended up being a well written idea.
While I enjoyed how most of the plot unfolded, and secrets came to light, I think my biggest problem was connecting to the characters. I liked them and enjoyed them enough to probably read a second book, but I wasn’t really feeling them. I didn’t feel so worried when they were in danger and I didn’t get any happy feels when a small romance started to SLOWLY develop. I can’t explain it any better than to say that I felt disconnected and that I didn’t care about them like I wanted to.
In the end I had my ups and downs with this one. I think this book was worth my time and I’m glad I read it, but to be honest it is a book I might soon forget. I think with where a sequel could go, and hopefully with it more romance, I might enjoy the next book even more. I also want to learn more about Dani, and why she is the way she is, and maybe that will help me to connect more. This was good book for a debut, but I’m hoping for even better with a book 2.
A copy was given to me for a review.
I had a lot of trouble with this one to start with. The beginning did not catch me at all. I actually picked this book up 4 different times but I just kept putting it down and moving to something else. I really thought this would be a DNF, but then I noticed that a couple of my Goodreads friends ended up enjoying this. I also don’t like to DNF review copies so I pushed through and in the end I’m glad I did. I never did connect to this book in the way I hoped, but it did get better as the book went on and it would not have deserved a DNF from me.
I’m not a huge fan of paranormal or fantasy books where a main character is pretty special in some way yet they don’t know it yet. Well that part doesn’t bother me so much, since I’m used to it in these types of books, but what bothers me is when the main character doesn’t know anything, but everyone else does. Family, friends, whoever, they are all in on the secret yet they won’t give answers because it’s not the right time, or the quest isn’t finished, or whatever. And because no one will give any answers, the main character is running around like a chicken with no head and they keep getting hurt or almost dying. Sometimes this idea can work, but it also can really drive me nuts. So you might imagine that I was not the biggest fan of this being a major plot point in this book. However, I have to give the author credit because while they choose this annoying “special person who is in the dark about why” fantasy trope, they actually gave a real reason for it. They reason the character could not know why actually makes some sense and it ended up being a well written idea.
While I enjoyed how most of the plot unfolded, and secrets came to light, I think my biggest problem was connecting to the characters. I liked them and enjoyed them enough to probably read a second book, but I wasn’t really feeling them. I didn’t feel so worried when they were in danger and I didn’t get any happy feels when a small romance started to SLOWLY develop. I can’t explain it any better than to say that I felt disconnected and that I didn’t care about them like I wanted to.
In the end I had my ups and downs with this one. I think this book was worth my time and I’m glad I read it, but to be honest it is a book I might soon forget. I think with where a sequel could go, and hopefully with it more romance, I might enjoy the next book even more. I also want to learn more about Dani, and why she is the way she is, and maybe that will help me to connect more. This was good book for a debut, but I’m hoping for even better with a book 2.
A copy was given to me for a review.
June 30, 2021
A unique and immersive urban fantasy! With paranormal elements. link: Onsale for 99C at the moment on amazon.
I would highly recommend to readers who love these genres. Or even those who are just curious to it. It mixes our modern world with fantasy elements and magic, plus paranormal elements. In this case things beyond the veil and mystical talents with the living and the dead. Plus mystery for two women, who have a lot in common, and a spark of something more.
Dani is a monster hunter. She disposes of things that turn evil. She recently lost a long-term work partner who was like a mentor and brother to her, and now she wants revenge on the entity responsible. She tracks it and a possible weapon down to a small town off the map.
Emilie has come back to her hometown after 10 years of being away. Her past haunts her with the death of her mother and memory loss that is more than it seems. The two women discover a common goal, and enemy. Both of their pasts and individual mysteries combine to set them both on a path together. They also get help of some magical friends and relatives intown.
The world and magics the author has created is full and the tale woven with interest and intrigue. You can't help but keep reading as you get sucked further into what's happening in the town of Dawson, and the Spectre that lurks in the shadows, targeting the women for nefarious purposes.
The mysteries slowly unravel, as does Emilies own memories, plus the fascinating past of her family history - and how it ties in with this 'Spectre' entity, and also the alluring Dani. The two have a subtle connection, that gets cemented along the journey they take together. You find yourself rooting for them, and hoping for more.
The mystery wraps up well, and is satisfying. We get a glimmer of the start of the romance and further journey's ahead for the two women, so I very much look forward to future installments in the series. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this one to people who love action and adventure, and some kickass ladies.
I would highly recommend to readers who love these genres. Or even those who are just curious to it. It mixes our modern world with fantasy elements and magic, plus paranormal elements. In this case things beyond the veil and mystical talents with the living and the dead. Plus mystery for two women, who have a lot in common, and a spark of something more.
Dani is a monster hunter. She disposes of things that turn evil. She recently lost a long-term work partner who was like a mentor and brother to her, and now she wants revenge on the entity responsible. She tracks it and a possible weapon down to a small town off the map.
Emilie has come back to her hometown after 10 years of being away. Her past haunts her with the death of her mother and memory loss that is more than it seems. The two women discover a common goal, and enemy. Both of their pasts and individual mysteries combine to set them both on a path together. They also get help of some magical friends and relatives intown.
The world and magics the author has created is full and the tale woven with interest and intrigue. You can't help but keep reading as you get sucked further into what's happening in the town of Dawson, and the Spectre that lurks in the shadows, targeting the women for nefarious purposes.
The mysteries slowly unravel, as does Emilies own memories, plus the fascinating past of her family history - and how it ties in with this 'Spectre' entity, and also the alluring Dani. The two have a subtle connection, that gets cemented along the journey they take together. You find yourself rooting for them, and hoping for more.
The mystery wraps up well, and is satisfying. We get a glimmer of the start of the romance and further journey's ahead for the two women, so I very much look forward to future installments in the series. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this one to people who love action and adventure, and some kickass ladies.
April 30, 2021
It’s no secret that urban fantasy is my favorite subgenre, and I’m also fascinated by necromancers. So when I saw this book online, I knew I needed to read it. I just *knew* that CINDERS OF YESTERDAY was going to be a homerun. Sometimes that anticipation can be dangerous, but I had a feeling that Jen Karner was going to knock this concept out of the park.
Reader, I was not wrong. This book is so. good.
The book follows two protagonists: Dani Black, hunter of monsters, and Emilie Lockgrove, a medium without most of her memories. The characters meet in the small town of Dawson, where secrets are prevalent and nothing is as it seems, both touched by tragedy at the hands of the necromancer, Spectre. Dani wants to kill him, and Emilie wants to reclaim the memories she lost thanks to Spectre, but those goals aren’t easy to reach because the necromancer won’t die and stay dead. What follows is a story of facing the past and trusting in one’s instincts, even when the path looks bleak. They have great chemistry with each other, and I loved reading their interactions. Both POVs are very different, but amazing, in their own ways, and I enjoyed reading from both perspectives!
I think one of my favorite parts about the book is the parallel between Spectre’s inability to die and the road Dani and Emilie have to travel to overcome their pasts. There is something so poetic about the way Karner addressed grief and loss with this hard-to-kill adversary, and it’s *chef’s kiss*.
If you like urban fantasy, necromancers, and small-towns with secrets, you don’t want to miss this one!
***I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Reader, I was not wrong. This book is so. good.
The book follows two protagonists: Dani Black, hunter of monsters, and Emilie Lockgrove, a medium without most of her memories. The characters meet in the small town of Dawson, where secrets are prevalent and nothing is as it seems, both touched by tragedy at the hands of the necromancer, Spectre. Dani wants to kill him, and Emilie wants to reclaim the memories she lost thanks to Spectre, but those goals aren’t easy to reach because the necromancer won’t die and stay dead. What follows is a story of facing the past and trusting in one’s instincts, even when the path looks bleak. They have great chemistry with each other, and I loved reading their interactions. Both POVs are very different, but amazing, in their own ways, and I enjoyed reading from both perspectives!
I think one of my favorite parts about the book is the parallel between Spectre’s inability to die and the road Dani and Emilie have to travel to overcome their pasts. There is something so poetic about the way Karner addressed grief and loss with this hard-to-kill adversary, and it’s *chef’s kiss*.
If you like urban fantasy, necromancers, and small-towns with secrets, you don’t want to miss this one!
***I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 24, 2021
Are you a fan of Buffy the Vampire Slayer or Supernatural but also been like "Okay... but what if they were lesbians?" Well, do I have the book for you!
I am a huge urban fantasy fan, and spent my teen years devouring Buffy the Vampire Slayer then later Supernatural, so this book was right up my alley! Emilie and Dani were two fantastic heroines overcoming their own trauma with a lovely slow burn between them that made me keep wanting more to see where their blooming relationship and and their adventures would lead them. I loved digging deeper into these characters pasts, and seeing how they would overcome the obstacles they faced.
If you want a fast paced paranormal adventure with a slow burn sappic love story, look no further! I can't wait to see what Jen Karner has up next.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I am a huge urban fantasy fan, and spent my teen years devouring Buffy the Vampire Slayer then later Supernatural, so this book was right up my alley! Emilie and Dani were two fantastic heroines overcoming their own trauma with a lovely slow burn between them that made me keep wanting more to see where their blooming relationship and and their adventures would lead them. I loved digging deeper into these characters pasts, and seeing how they would overcome the obstacles they faced.
If you want a fast paced paranormal adventure with a slow burn sappic love story, look no further! I can't wait to see what Jen Karner has up next.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2021
As a debut novel, Cinders of Yesterday is an exceptional supernatural mystery which hits all the right notes. Jen Karner is now added to my list of authors whose future works are a must read.
The villain Spectre is a necromancer who has murdered all the clairvoyant women in the Devereaux family for the past hundred years. Dani Black is a highly skilled hunter of magic talented individuals who have gone to the dark side. She is seeking her revenge against Spectre for killing her work partner. Emilie Lockgrove has returned to her family home to face her past and find out what exactly happened the day her mother died. Magic abounds everywhere but especially in the town of Dawson where Dani and Emilie meet.
I eagerly jumped into this story with both feet. Karner has an enthralling rhythm with her writing style and the imaginative story carries you along its twists and turns. The characters are as diverse as their magical specialties and very likeable. The setting of the town of Dawson could not be more frightening and foreboding for its silences and sinister feel. This all comes together to make Cinders of Yesterday a really good read.
4⭐️
The villain Spectre is a necromancer who has murdered all the clairvoyant women in the Devereaux family for the past hundred years. Dani Black is a highly skilled hunter of magic talented individuals who have gone to the dark side. She is seeking her revenge against Spectre for killing her work partner. Emilie Lockgrove has returned to her family home to face her past and find out what exactly happened the day her mother died. Magic abounds everywhere but especially in the town of Dawson where Dani and Emilie meet.
I eagerly jumped into this story with both feet. Karner has an enthralling rhythm with her writing style and the imaginative story carries you along its twists and turns. The characters are as diverse as their magical specialties and very likeable. The setting of the town of Dawson could not be more frightening and foreboding for its silences and sinister feel. This all comes together to make Cinders of Yesterday a really good read.
4⭐️
July 18, 2021
An ARC copy was given to me from BookSirens for a honest review.
This book is about Dani Black (a paranormal moster hunter) and Emilie Lockgrove (I didn´t quite understand what Emilie was). I like this book, because I liked the building of the relationship between Dani and Emily as they try to get revenge and defeat their enemy a Necromancer. The fantasy story behind was sometimes difficult to catch, but otherwise I liked the book.
I hope, there will be a sequel.....
This book is about Dani Black (a paranormal moster hunter) and Emilie Lockgrove (I didn´t quite understand what Emilie was). I like this book, because I liked the building of the relationship between Dani and Emily as they try to get revenge and defeat their enemy a Necromancer. The fantasy story behind was sometimes difficult to catch, but otherwise I liked the book.
I hope, there will be a sequel.....
March 15, 2024
CINDERS OF YESTERDAY was a lot of fun and hit all the best notes of a paranormal/fantasy book - -magic, monsters, haunted houses, and an MC who can kick some supernatural butt! The plot sucked me in with its SUPERNATURAL and WYNONNA EARP vibes while Dani and Emilie kept me coming back for more.
After reading this I have a huge crush on Dani! She’s tough, brave, sarcastic, and a natural born protector. She was born to hunt monsters and she’s one of the best at what she does. Emilie and Dani’s relationship was the slowest of slow burns but they're a great fit together. Most of CINDERS OF YESTERDAY is focused on recovering Emilie’s memories and defeating Spectre so things were only starting to develop but their connection and attraction was evident from the beginning.
The final fight scene was like an ode to female strength, power, and rage and it was perfect *chefs kiss*. I loved how strong the women in this book were, whether it was Dani’s physical strength, Emilie’s emotional resilience, or Andromeda’s confidence.
**ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Content Warning: on page death and grief; violence and gore; Emilie’s memories have been magically removed and she’s been led to believe she’s mentally unstable
After reading this I have a huge crush on Dani! She’s tough, brave, sarcastic, and a natural born protector. She was born to hunt monsters and she’s one of the best at what she does. Emilie and Dani’s relationship was the slowest of slow burns but they're a great fit together. Most of CINDERS OF YESTERDAY is focused on recovering Emilie’s memories and defeating Spectre so things were only starting to develop but their connection and attraction was evident from the beginning.
The final fight scene was like an ode to female strength, power, and rage and it was perfect *chefs kiss*. I loved how strong the women in this book were, whether it was Dani’s physical strength, Emilie’s emotional resilience, or Andromeda’s confidence.
**ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Content Warning: on page death and grief; violence and gore; Emilie’s memories have been magically removed and she’s been led to believe she’s mentally unstable
June 23, 2021
I was given a copy of this to review on Netgalley, many thanks to the publishers.
Cinders of Yesterday by Jen Karner is an urban fantasy novel based around two protagonists, Dani Black and Emilie Lockgrove. Dani is a monster hunter with a grudge against a 'necromancer' named Spectre, and Emilie is a young woman coming back to her hometown only to be thrown into memories of a life long forgotten. The points of view switch throughout the book between the two women, and we are taken on a winding journey of family, loss, monsters and even love.
The book itself was extremely enjoyable as there really wasn't much downtime when it came to the action and world building that Karner succeeds in giving us. The two protagonists in Dani and Emilie are both so enjoyable and likeable that you feel yourself wanting to know more, wanting to follow them both on their journeys. There is a natural pull between the two women, one that is extremely believable and one that you root for throughout the book. It doesn't feel contrived, false or forced in any way and that just lends itself to an enjoyable experience in getting to know both Dani and Emilie.
The world building and lore is very interesting, the differences between the hunters and the Talented and the other side characters were something that kept me reading, kept me wanting more. I would have liked a little more exposition on some of the lore, but overall it really worked to bring you into the story. Spectre is a formidable foe, one that has charm and finesse, yet there does feel to be a little something lacking in regards to his backstory despite that being discussed and examined in the book. He needs a little more punch to his reasonings, and yet at the same time it worked enough for the story and the book and didn't really hold the storyline to a detriment.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book and the characters and I would definitely recommend it to my other reader friends. I will definitely look out for the next books in the series as I want to follow Dani and Emilie to see where they end up and who they'll face off against next.
Cinders of Yesterday by Jen Karner is an urban fantasy novel based around two protagonists, Dani Black and Emilie Lockgrove. Dani is a monster hunter with a grudge against a 'necromancer' named Spectre, and Emilie is a young woman coming back to her hometown only to be thrown into memories of a life long forgotten. The points of view switch throughout the book between the two women, and we are taken on a winding journey of family, loss, monsters and even love.
The book itself was extremely enjoyable as there really wasn't much downtime when it came to the action and world building that Karner succeeds in giving us. The two protagonists in Dani and Emilie are both so enjoyable and likeable that you feel yourself wanting to know more, wanting to follow them both on their journeys. There is a natural pull between the two women, one that is extremely believable and one that you root for throughout the book. It doesn't feel contrived, false or forced in any way and that just lends itself to an enjoyable experience in getting to know both Dani and Emilie.
The world building and lore is very interesting, the differences between the hunters and the Talented and the other side characters were something that kept me reading, kept me wanting more. I would have liked a little more exposition on some of the lore, but overall it really worked to bring you into the story. Spectre is a formidable foe, one that has charm and finesse, yet there does feel to be a little something lacking in regards to his backstory despite that being discussed and examined in the book. He needs a little more punch to his reasonings, and yet at the same time it worked enough for the story and the book and didn't really hold the storyline to a detriment.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book and the characters and I would definitely recommend it to my other reader friends. I will definitely look out for the next books in the series as I want to follow Dani and Emilie to see where they end up and who they'll face off against next.
June 24, 2021
Cinders of Yesterday is such a cool story that hits all of the crave-worthy beats of a dynamite urban fantasy while offering fresh characters and exciting twists on time-tested tropes. Dani and Emilie, a monster hunter and a medium, come colliding into each other's lives in a small, magical town when their goals align around defeating one very bad bad guy. As the women work to overcome their adversary and battle their own inner specters of trauma, grief, and loss, a profound emotional bond blossoms between them. Karner has a palpable talent for uniting internal and external struggles in a manner that lends true complexity to the story. Dani and Emilie, while very different people with their own inner conflicts, are perfectly suited for each other. Cinders of Yesterday combines emotional depth with a sassy, modern voice and humor, page-turning action, and a richly developed paranormal world. A winning tale.
*I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to the author and City Owl Press.*
*I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to the author and City Owl Press.*
December 24, 2021
This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Cinders of Yesterday
Thank you to LibraryThing and City Owl Press for a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this book review.
What should have been a routine hunt, turned horribly wrong when Spectre appeared and murdered Dani’s partner. Many hunters have tried to take down Spectre, but the necromancer refuses to die. Now Dani is his new target as she chases down rumors of a weapon able to kill him. When her search leads to Dawson Maryland, she will cross paths with Emilie Lockgrove, a woman whose history is tied to Spectre. Together they will have to face Spectre, or die trying.
Cinders of Yesterday started off with strong Supernatural vibes. Dani is a tough as nails hunter, willing to risk her life to take down monsters. She moves from place to place, never settling for too long, chasing down leads. Sound familiar? Her attitude is sharp and her skills are on point. On the other hand, while Emilie may not be a battle hardened veteran, she isn’t helpless either. Both characters share a tragic past tied to Spectre and balance off one another. The two make quite the pair as they use their strengths to survive.
Throughout the novel, Dani drops small facts about hunters and their culture. It’s just enough to give readers a taste of the world they live in. The basics are easy enough to discern, but I would have enjoyed learning more about Dani’s life as a hunter before the events of this novel. There is so much detail spent developing the town of Dawson and Emilie’s history, but the closest look at Dani’s hunter past is her partner’s death. And while readers do learn about Dani’s history before she became a hunter, it is not given the same amount of detail as Emilie’s history.
However, Cinders of Yesterday will still keep you entertained as Dani and Emilie team up to take on Spectre. The fight scenes are intense and action packed. And while there isn’t as much fighting as you may expect, the story is filled with suspense, drama, and close calls. There is even a little romance woven into the plot as well. All in all, this was an enjoyable urban fantasy read.
Thank you to LibraryThing and City Owl Press for a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this book review.
What should have been a routine hunt, turned horribly wrong when Spectre appeared and murdered Dani’s partner. Many hunters have tried to take down Spectre, but the necromancer refuses to die. Now Dani is his new target as she chases down rumors of a weapon able to kill him. When her search leads to Dawson Maryland, she will cross paths with Emilie Lockgrove, a woman whose history is tied to Spectre. Together they will have to face Spectre, or die trying.
Cinders of Yesterday started off with strong Supernatural vibes. Dani is a tough as nails hunter, willing to risk her life to take down monsters. She moves from place to place, never settling for too long, chasing down leads. Sound familiar? Her attitude is sharp and her skills are on point. On the other hand, while Emilie may not be a battle hardened veteran, she isn’t helpless either. Both characters share a tragic past tied to Spectre and balance off one another. The two make quite the pair as they use their strengths to survive.
Throughout the novel, Dani drops small facts about hunters and their culture. It’s just enough to give readers a taste of the world they live in. The basics are easy enough to discern, but I would have enjoyed learning more about Dani’s life as a hunter before the events of this novel. There is so much detail spent developing the town of Dawson and Emilie’s history, but the closest look at Dani’s hunter past is her partner’s death. And while readers do learn about Dani’s history before she became a hunter, it is not given the same amount of detail as Emilie’s history.
However, Cinders of Yesterday will still keep you entertained as Dani and Emilie team up to take on Spectre. The fight scenes are intense and action packed. And while there isn’t as much fighting as you may expect, the story is filled with suspense, drama, and close calls. There is even a little romance woven into the plot as well. All in all, this was an enjoyable urban fantasy read.
April 16, 2024
This book is for everyone who loves complicated, Dean Winchester-esque disaster lesbians and the investigative, monster-of-the-week parts of SUPERNATURAL—Destiel for sapphics. At times horrifying and heartwarming, CINDERS OF YESTERDAY is a crisp and sharply written paranormal fantasy with clever characters and visceral, precise action and imagery.
May 20, 2024
4.5 Stars
It reads sooo much like Supernatural but sapphic. And because I’m a big fan of the show so obviously I loved reading this book. The story in itself was so rich and intricate but easy to follow. The fast paced scenes with the monsters and that were written vividly and it felt like watching a reel play in my mind’s eye. Enjoyed this book so much. Can’t wait for book 2!
It reads sooo much like Supernatural but sapphic. And because I’m a big fan of the show so obviously I loved reading this book. The story in itself was so rich and intricate but easy to follow. The fast paced scenes with the monsters and that were written vividly and it felt like watching a reel play in my mind’s eye. Enjoyed this book so much. Can’t wait for book 2!
August 21, 2021
Dani is a hunter of monsters; and her newest mission is to track down a weapon that can kill the worst thing she's faced. The mission turns out to be more complicated that she could have ever dreamt.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
This story follows two main characters in the town of Dawson - an idyllic little place that has more secrets than you can believe.
Dani Black is only in her late-twenties, but is already a veteran hunter. Alongside her partner, she has killed countless monsters and stopped magic-users when they turn dark.
After her partner is killed by Spectre - a monster that refuses to stay dead - Dani knows that it's only a matter of time before Spectre tracks her down and finishes the job. She's pointed in the direction of a legendary dagger that might be powerful enough to stop Spectre, but when she arrives in Dawson, she finds so much more.
Emilie Lockgrove has spent the last ten years running from her life, crippled by the memory of her mother burning to death, and a gaping hole in the rest of her memories.
When her grandad offers an olive branch, Emilie decides that she can't truly get on with her life, until she puts her ghosts to rest. Hopefully, a trip back will restore her memories, and answer her questions.
The two of them end up being thrown together in a haunted house, and realise they need to work together if they're going to get rid of Spectre.
I really enjoyed this. It made a nice mystery, with Dani and Emilie slowly filling in the blanks, they discover just how much everyone has been hiding from them.
There's plenty of danger and action, and I was never bored.
I loved all the hints of magic about the town of Dawson, you get the feeling that it's not quite as it appears, and could easily turn into the setting quite dark.
I really liked the level of romance in this book. There is an attraction between Dani and Emilie, but it never overwhelms the story. It's really sweet how they slowly connect with each other - especially Dani, who has been a constant loner.
I liked that the characters stay focussed on the job at hand, and don't waste time mooning over one another, which is a pet peeve of mine.
Overall, this was a great start to a series, and I can't wait to see where it goes next!
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
This story follows two main characters in the town of Dawson - an idyllic little place that has more secrets than you can believe.
Dani Black is only in her late-twenties, but is already a veteran hunter. Alongside her partner, she has killed countless monsters and stopped magic-users when they turn dark.
After her partner is killed by Spectre - a monster that refuses to stay dead - Dani knows that it's only a matter of time before Spectre tracks her down and finishes the job. She's pointed in the direction of a legendary dagger that might be powerful enough to stop Spectre, but when she arrives in Dawson, she finds so much more.
Emilie Lockgrove has spent the last ten years running from her life, crippled by the memory of her mother burning to death, and a gaping hole in the rest of her memories.
When her grandad offers an olive branch, Emilie decides that she can't truly get on with her life, until she puts her ghosts to rest. Hopefully, a trip back will restore her memories, and answer her questions.
The two of them end up being thrown together in a haunted house, and realise they need to work together if they're going to get rid of Spectre.
I really enjoyed this. It made a nice mystery, with Dani and Emilie slowly filling in the blanks, they discover just how much everyone has been hiding from them.
There's plenty of danger and action, and I was never bored.
I loved all the hints of magic about the town of Dawson, you get the feeling that it's not quite as it appears, and could easily turn into the setting quite dark.
I really liked the level of romance in this book. There is an attraction between Dani and Emilie, but it never overwhelms the story. It's really sweet how they slowly connect with each other - especially Dani, who has been a constant loner.
I liked that the characters stay focussed on the job at hand, and don't waste time mooning over one another, which is a pet peeve of mine.
Overall, this was a great start to a series, and I can't wait to see where it goes next!
May 22, 2021
Read an ARC from the author
Content warning: trauma, parental death, house fires, fantasy violence, psychiatric hospital, immolation
A necromancer named Spectre killed Dani Black’s partner and the hunter is out for revenge. He also haunts Emilie Lockgrove, a medium with repressed memories and a whole bunch of family trauma to unpack. They come together in Dawson, Maryland, in search of a blade and a way to kill the necromancer once and for all.
Smooth as a knife’s edge and just as sharp, an exciting and sapphic new entry into the paranormal genre with plenty of scary monsters to go around.
The contemporary world-building of talented, casters, and sentinels stays so true to genre and tropes, while also holding its own ground. From start to finish, the factional tensions take center stage in ways that feel fresh and familiar. It’s a lot of fun, especially during the action set pieces and the eerie scenes which stand firmly within the horror genre in fantastically spooky and unnerving ways.
Dani has a quick mouth on her, but as the story goes on, a vulnerability shines through as she and Emilie get closer. Their dynamic is so spikey at first, but it makes sense. They both have deep damage to work through. What I loved is that though they both need each other to survive the deadly encounters with Spectre, healing comes from within. It’s beautifully done and swoon-worthy until the very end.
I had the incredible privilege of following this book through all phases of its development. I am immensely proud of Jen and the atmospheric, mystical world of magic and otherworldly that they have pulled off here. The world-building is crisp, and the chemistry between Dani and Emilie is the most electric its been.
I’m so excited for others to get to experience this book that is equal parts a sapphic fix-it fic of and a love letter to Supernatural.
Content warning: trauma, parental death, house fires, fantasy violence, psychiatric hospital, immolation
A necromancer named Spectre killed Dani Black’s partner and the hunter is out for revenge. He also haunts Emilie Lockgrove, a medium with repressed memories and a whole bunch of family trauma to unpack. They come together in Dawson, Maryland, in search of a blade and a way to kill the necromancer once and for all.
Smooth as a knife’s edge and just as sharp, an exciting and sapphic new entry into the paranormal genre with plenty of scary monsters to go around.
The contemporary world-building of talented, casters, and sentinels stays so true to genre and tropes, while also holding its own ground. From start to finish, the factional tensions take center stage in ways that feel fresh and familiar. It’s a lot of fun, especially during the action set pieces and the eerie scenes which stand firmly within the horror genre in fantastically spooky and unnerving ways.
Dani has a quick mouth on her, but as the story goes on, a vulnerability shines through as she and Emilie get closer. Their dynamic is so spikey at first, but it makes sense. They both have deep damage to work through. What I loved is that though they both need each other to survive the deadly encounters with Spectre, healing comes from within. It’s beautifully done and swoon-worthy until the very end.
I had the incredible privilege of following this book through all phases of its development. I am immensely proud of Jen and the atmospheric, mystical world of magic and otherworldly that they have pulled off here. The world-building is crisp, and the chemistry between Dani and Emilie is the most electric its been.
I’m so excited for others to get to experience this book that is equal parts a sapphic fix-it fic of and a love letter to Supernatural.
July 3, 2021
This book has a little bit of everything and I really enjoyed it. A bit of paranormal, a budding romance, action, and more!
I really hope that this develops into more of a series (even tho there is good closure there are a few open threads), i'd love to visit with these characters again.
I really hope that this develops into more of a series (even tho there is good closure there are a few open threads), i'd love to visit with these characters again.
October 24, 2024
3 stars. Wasn't bad. A lot of potential here and I will for sure read book two whenever it comes out. I liked the characters of Emilie and Dani quite a bit and there was some great actions scenes in this. It was really just the pacing and world building that bogged everything down for me. This was solid start to this series and I'm intrigued to see what the author does next with it.
June 13, 2021
Thank you to the publisher for providing me an ARC in exchange for a review! All thoughts and opinions of this book are my own.
Cinders of Yesterday by Jen Karner is an urban fantasy that follows two main protagonists, Dani Black, a monster hunter, and Emilie Lockgrove, a medium that has had her memories shielded for most of her life. This story is based in the small town of Dawson, a town with many secrets and plenty of history. Much of the conflict is based around a necromancer, Spectre. Defeating him and bringing an end to him is no easy task, as it seems like killing him is next to impossible. Switching between viewpoints of both Dani and Emilie, this story follows their journey of coming to terms with the past and their future, despite everything that seems to be against them.
The main characters are truly what made this book extremely interesting to me. There are plenty of moving parts between Dani and Emilie’s backstories, which build up the lore of the book. I thoroughly enjoyed the connection between the two MCs and the development along the way. Even the side characters had a lot of build up and connection with the two main characters which aided in the overall development of Dani and Emilie. It was something that I found was done extremely well, even if certain characters only were there for a few conversations. It made the story feel very well built out and made it feel much more genuine, as if you truly were watching the story unfold in this small town.
The flow of the story is very fast paced, and there is action at almost every corner. Even when there is not necessarily ‘in your face’ action, there’s still a lot of good drama or good dialogue going on with the characters as they understand and learn more about their past. The two protagonists add a charm to the story with their striking personalities and add a flair that keeps you turning the page. They certainly have their charm, but also have a harsh side to the both of them which contrasts extremely well against the quaint, charming small town feel you get from Dawson, the center stage for the story. The story is balanced well against the descriptions and the build up of the lore and the backstory that builds into the drives of the main characters.
Overall, this was a refreshing tale that had me constantly on my toes. The two protagonists were charming, and I found myself really enjoying the build up and the development of all of the characters. The story was paced well, and while there were a lot of tense, action filled scenes, it felt very well balanced by moments that simply allowed the characters to connect and to build their relationships. I loved the general story a lot, and found it being somewhat of a refreshing read for me. There’s a lot of great chemistry and a lot of amazing lore to keep the reader engaged no matter what part of the story you’re in.
With the main characters, the paranormal, and the development throughout the entire story, this is definitely a book that i’d recommend to any fantasy lovers. With its charming main characters and storyline, I would definitely check out any other books in this universe to see how the story continues.
Cinders of Yesterday by Jen Karner is an urban fantasy that follows two main protagonists, Dani Black, a monster hunter, and Emilie Lockgrove, a medium that has had her memories shielded for most of her life. This story is based in the small town of Dawson, a town with many secrets and plenty of history. Much of the conflict is based around a necromancer, Spectre. Defeating him and bringing an end to him is no easy task, as it seems like killing him is next to impossible. Switching between viewpoints of both Dani and Emilie, this story follows their journey of coming to terms with the past and their future, despite everything that seems to be against them.
The main characters are truly what made this book extremely interesting to me. There are plenty of moving parts between Dani and Emilie’s backstories, which build up the lore of the book. I thoroughly enjoyed the connection between the two MCs and the development along the way. Even the side characters had a lot of build up and connection with the two main characters which aided in the overall development of Dani and Emilie. It was something that I found was done extremely well, even if certain characters only were there for a few conversations. It made the story feel very well built out and made it feel much more genuine, as if you truly were watching the story unfold in this small town.
The flow of the story is very fast paced, and there is action at almost every corner. Even when there is not necessarily ‘in your face’ action, there’s still a lot of good drama or good dialogue going on with the characters as they understand and learn more about their past. The two protagonists add a charm to the story with their striking personalities and add a flair that keeps you turning the page. They certainly have their charm, but also have a harsh side to the both of them which contrasts extremely well against the quaint, charming small town feel you get from Dawson, the center stage for the story. The story is balanced well against the descriptions and the build up of the lore and the backstory that builds into the drives of the main characters.
Overall, this was a refreshing tale that had me constantly on my toes. The two protagonists were charming, and I found myself really enjoying the build up and the development of all of the characters. The story was paced well, and while there were a lot of tense, action filled scenes, it felt very well balanced by moments that simply allowed the characters to connect and to build their relationships. I loved the general story a lot, and found it being somewhat of a refreshing read for me. There’s a lot of great chemistry and a lot of amazing lore to keep the reader engaged no matter what part of the story you’re in.
With the main characters, the paranormal, and the development throughout the entire story, this is definitely a book that i’d recommend to any fantasy lovers. With its charming main characters and storyline, I would definitely check out any other books in this universe to see how the story continues.
December 23, 2021
I liked this book -- I just wanted to *love* it, and I occasionally struggled with frustration at the points where it didn't quite go far enough for me to feel that love. (That said, please don't take this review as a negative one. I still really did like it!)
The positive: This is an extremely badass, noir-style paranormal investigation story with sapphic leads falling in love together as they fight monsters. The main characters are both legitimately cool in very different ways. It celebrates and uplifts a wide variety of women, and it deals with family struggles in a way that sparks through beautifully in places. There was a part in the climax I got teary.
The negative: It just feels like it needed a bit more structural editing than it had. It commits to the gritty noir narrative to the point that conversations are sometimes so dedicated to being ominous banter that they stop actually communicating meaning, we know the two leads are physically attracted to each other but we don't explicitly see what they like in each other, and it repeatedly undercuts its own dramatic revelations, which tends to remove tension. (One example: Dani overhears someone saying that she's a member of the Black family, and immediately after that, that person comes into the room she's in and TELLS her that she's a member of the Black family, and in the scene immediately after, the secondary character Emilie suddenly also discovers that Dani is a member of the Black family. This is is treated as a shock revelation by the narrative all three of these times. However... the chapters are labelled by character pov, meaning that we the readers have known that she's Dani Black since the first header of chapter one, so *none* of these three revelations actually land). The same thing happens for pretty much every hard-hitting twist -- it's revealed before the scene in which it's supposed to be hard-hitting. I could get past these things, but they feel like something that should have been fixed between first and second draft, which made them distracting.
That long and short of it is that it gave me tastes of something I really liked, while never committing to delivering the whole meal. I would still recommend this to someone looking for a fun sapphic read, because it gave me a lot of what I love in the paranormal genre while centering queer women, and it *almost* delivered on those other things. I'll definitely want to check out the author's subsequent books to see where the characters go from here, because if these elements were tightened up it would have been a five star read for me! So I'm excited to see where Karner goes from here.
The positive: This is an extremely badass, noir-style paranormal investigation story with sapphic leads falling in love together as they fight monsters. The main characters are both legitimately cool in very different ways. It celebrates and uplifts a wide variety of women, and it deals with family struggles in a way that sparks through beautifully in places. There was a part in the climax I got teary.
The negative: It just feels like it needed a bit more structural editing than it had. It commits to the gritty noir narrative to the point that conversations are sometimes so dedicated to being ominous banter that they stop actually communicating meaning, we know the two leads are physically attracted to each other but we don't explicitly see what they like in each other, and it repeatedly undercuts its own dramatic revelations, which tends to remove tension. (One example: Dani overhears someone saying that she's a member of the Black family, and immediately after that, that person comes into the room she's in and TELLS her that she's a member of the Black family, and in the scene immediately after, the secondary character Emilie suddenly also discovers that Dani is a member of the Black family. This is is treated as a shock revelation by the narrative all three of these times. However... the chapters are labelled by character pov, meaning that we the readers have known that she's Dani Black since the first header of chapter one, so *none* of these three revelations actually land). The same thing happens for pretty much every hard-hitting twist -- it's revealed before the scene in which it's supposed to be hard-hitting. I could get past these things, but they feel like something that should have been fixed between first and second draft, which made them distracting.
That long and short of it is that it gave me tastes of something I really liked, while never committing to delivering the whole meal. I would still recommend this to someone looking for a fun sapphic read, because it gave me a lot of what I love in the paranormal genre while centering queer women, and it *almost* delivered on those other things. I'll definitely want to check out the author's subsequent books to see where the characters go from here, because if these elements were tightened up it would have been a five star read for me! So I'm excited to see where Karner goes from here.
August 5, 2024
I'm not saying it's Supernatural but make it lesbians but... well, that's exactly what the author told me it was when I bought my copy and it delivered!
I love the spooky vibe. I love the banter. I love the will they won't they. Honestly, there's nothing /not/ to love about this book so just do yourself a favor and grab a copy already.
I love the spooky vibe. I love the banter. I love the will they won't they. Honestly, there's nothing /not/ to love about this book so just do yourself a favor and grab a copy already.
May 20, 2021
In Cinders of Yesterday, Jen Karner has perfectly captured the vibes of small town Maryland and intertwined them with enthralling fantasy, fast-paced action, and wonderful tension both paranormal and queer. With narrative from the perspective of both protagonists, Dani Black and Emilie Lockgrove, their individual voices ring clear as they grapple with personal tragedy, rediscover a lost past, and battle the monster that haunts them both.
Y'all. I loved it so much! The characters are 🔥🔥🔥 and flow of story makes it hard to put down. I recieved an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review and, without question, my next move is pre-ordering a copy to read and re-read. I can't wait to see where the series goes!
Y'all. I loved it so much! The characters are 🔥🔥🔥 and flow of story makes it hard to put down. I recieved an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review and, without question, my next move is pre-ordering a copy to read and re-read. I can't wait to see where the series goes!
July 9, 2021
Cinder of Yesterday is the biggest surprise when it comes to book I have read so far this year. This urban fantasy tells a story from the two main leads. The story gives readers the back story of the two characters that helps explain why the characters are hunting down the evil in the world.
The story felt very in the moment and the flow was natural between the characters down the the city where everything takes place.
As someone who finds most urban fantasy over the top or full of sex. This author has changed my mind and I find myself excited to read more by this author.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of Jen Karner Cinders of Yesterday.
The story felt very in the moment and the flow was natural between the characters down the the city where everything takes place.
As someone who finds most urban fantasy over the top or full of sex. This author has changed my mind and I find myself excited to read more by this author.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of Jen Karner Cinders of Yesterday.
June 25, 2021
This book definitely filled a Supernatural sized hole in my heart.
June 18, 2021
“If experience had taught her anything, it was that men loved explaining things to women.”
“Are we more than the sum of our parts? Or just pieces of a puzzle, never finished, always evolving into something more. Something different.”
Dani is a hunter who has lived most of her life not knowing where she came from, but knowing that she was meant to hunt. She is a strong, independent character who knows what she wants and goes for it. She is on the hunt for the boogeyman which leads her to a seemingly quiet town.
Emilie has lost most of her memories and doesn’t know what she doesn’t remember, but she knows that she needs to go home to find out. She has spent years in psychological treatments and has been putting off going back to her small town of Dawson for a decade but with her Grandpa getting older, she has to go back.
I loved this story! It was fast paced and unlike anything I’ve read before.
If you enjoy urban fantasy and strong female leads who deal with their trauma, then this is the book for you!
Arc provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own
“Are we more than the sum of our parts? Or just pieces of a puzzle, never finished, always evolving into something more. Something different.”
Dani is a hunter who has lived most of her life not knowing where she came from, but knowing that she was meant to hunt. She is a strong, independent character who knows what she wants and goes for it. She is on the hunt for the boogeyman which leads her to a seemingly quiet town.
Emilie has lost most of her memories and doesn’t know what she doesn’t remember, but she knows that she needs to go home to find out. She has spent years in psychological treatments and has been putting off going back to her small town of Dawson for a decade but with her Grandpa getting older, she has to go back.
I loved this story! It was fast paced and unlike anything I’ve read before.
If you enjoy urban fantasy and strong female leads who deal with their trauma, then this is the book for you!
Arc provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own
June 20, 2021
Cinders of Yesterday is a great fantasy romance read that will immerse you into a world of hunters, wraiths, talented, bladesingers, and sentinels. After Dani's partner was murdered by a necromancer called Spectre, she sets off to end him once and for all. Her quest leads to a small town, where she bumps into Emilie Lockgrove, who is unknowingly entangled in Spectre's web.
Though it takes a bit to understand this world, once Dani and Emilie start working together to end Spectre's destructive cycle, it becomes a very intriguing read as family history is uncovered. Amidst the action and plotting, there is a hint of romance as they start to rely on each other and let down their guard. I enjoyed this debut novel and the characters, especially Emilie. Excited that there may be more to their story.
Though it takes a bit to understand this world, once Dani and Emilie start working together to end Spectre's destructive cycle, it becomes a very intriguing read as family history is uncovered. Amidst the action and plotting, there is a hint of romance as they start to rely on each other and let down their guard. I enjoyed this debut novel and the characters, especially Emilie. Excited that there may be more to their story.
June 22, 2021
Do you like Supernatural? Do you like distressed lesbians? Boy howdy are you going to love this!
June 16, 2021
Cinders of Yesterday is a richly developed, action-packed paranormal fantasy debut that everyone needs to read. If you love magic and monsters and badass knife wives, then you'll fall head-over-heels in love with this story. Dani and Emilie are such beautifully messy and relatable characters with so much more to show. I'm beyond excited to see how Jen is going to develop these girls in the sequel, and what sort of trouble they'll get into next.
September 6, 2021
Rating: 4.5/5.0
What an amazing action-adventure paranormal romantic story that is spellbindingly captivating!
Read full review in the 2021 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
What an amazing action-adventure paranormal romantic story that is spellbindingly captivating!
Read full review in the 2021 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
December 6, 2025
3.75 stars 🌟
December 9, 2022
A brief spark jumped between them, and Emilie felt it strike down to her core. Dani didn’t pull away, instead smirked with a tug of her lips and tightened her grip around Emilie’s hand. Maybe the hunter wanted somebody to reach out as much as Emilie needed to do it.
3.5 stars. I finished this yesterday, so it's a little difficult for me to corral all of my thoughts. I enjoyed this paranormal romance, and it had a lot of the hallmarks of something that I could really enjoy. But all of the potential that it had in the beginning just sort of flatlined near the end. It's not that things took a turn that I thought didn't make sense, or the plot let me down in any way. It's just that I wasn't as interested in the happenings. We're following two women, one who is a hunter of the supernatural, and another who is discovering the magical nature of her family and her own powers. They're both linked by an evil entity that has hurt them both and the people they love in the past, and now they're teaming up to hopefully try to take him down.
As always, I love a good slow burn. There's a lot of attraction between the two women, but because of their circumstances, they don't really act on it. The tension and chemistry was really well written though. I love pet names when they're apt and fun, and Dani referring to Emilie as "killer" was so cute. The rules and particulars of this paranormal world were easy enough to grasp, though it did feel like we kept getting introduced to new things, just when we felt like we had a good foundation. The ending revelations and the things that happened to Emilie were a bit much. I was intrigued enough to keep on reading, but I just wanted a bit more of... something else. As much as I love slow burn, I do wish that our main characters had spent a little more time together. But I guess that's what you have to expect when the romance takes place over a series of books. I prefer this format to them getting together super quickly. I just wish there had been more to hold my attention. I can't deny that I spaced out a lot in those last chapters.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Amy Landon, which I liked well enough. I didn't really love her voices for the men; a bit too forced. But it was a fun listen. I could definitely see myself continuing the series, because I really like our main characters, and I love the way it ended. Lots of great possibilities.
Content warnings:
“You don’t have to do this alone. I’ve got your back, killer.”
February 16, 2024
CINDERS OF YESTERDAY is a riveting urban fantasy with paranormal elements, featuring a sapphic romance and two deeply sympathetic heroines living with magic (and its perils) on a daily basis. Dani and Emilie wield their abilities—as well as the scars from their respective losses—as weapons while they work together to avenge the deaths of their loved ones at the hands of the sinister Spectre. Karner doesn’t shy away from using curses and dark magic as an apt metaphor for generational trauma—the layers of meaning are deep in this novel. The plot, world-building, and magic system are fully dimensional and immaculately rendered. I savored every word. Even if you don’t normally read fantasy, you’ll love this book. It’s spectacular!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews