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Marionette #1
Pulling Strings
Fitch Farrow never wanted to be a killer, but he’s damn good at it.
They call me Marionette. A murderer. A monster. And they’re not wrong. With my telekinesis, I’ve spent years making bodies dance before they drop. My criminal lifestyle was manageable, tolerable even, until I saw my little brother following in my footsteps.
I can’t let that happen. I won’t. Even if it means risking everything. As a member of a notorious gang of witches, I know the price of betrayal: prison if I’m lucky, death if I’m not. But I don’t care. I’ll do whatever it takes to keep him out of this life.
Locked up, I find myself caught between two forces: my gang, who doesn’t take betrayal lightly, and the government, who’d rather use me than execute me. Both sides dangle freedom in front of me. Both would rip me apart to get what they want.
But I’ve never let anyone pull my strings. Not the gang. Not the law. Not fear.
I just have to decide who I’m willing to betray: my brother, the gang, or myself.
They call me Marionette. A murderer. A monster. And they’re not wrong. With my telekinesis, I’ve spent years making bodies dance before they drop. My criminal lifestyle was manageable, tolerable even, until I saw my little brother following in my footsteps.
I can’t let that happen. I won’t. Even if it means risking everything. As a member of a notorious gang of witches, I know the price of betrayal: prison if I’m lucky, death if I’m not. But I don’t care. I’ll do whatever it takes to keep him out of this life.
Locked up, I find myself caught between two forces: my gang, who doesn’t take betrayal lightly, and the government, who’d rather use me than execute me. Both sides dangle freedom in front of me. Both would rip me apart to get what they want.
But I’ve never let anyone pull my strings. Not the gang. Not the law. Not fear.
I just have to decide who I’m willing to betray: my brother, the gang, or myself.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2024
35 people are currently reading
403 people want to read
About the author
Quinn Cameron
10 books72 followersQuinn Cameron writes queer romance stories packed with fantasy, paranormal intrigue, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting.
She thrives on damaged characters, tragic backstories, and the sweet, sweet agony of hurt/comfort—because what's love without a little emotional devastation first?
No matter how much angst she puts her characters through, she guarantees a happily ever after (or at least a very satisfying "about damn time").
When she's not torturing fictional souls, she can be found daydreaming, sipping iced lattes, and thinking up new ways to make her readers yell at their Kindles.
She thrives on damaged characters, tragic backstories, and the sweet, sweet agony of hurt/comfort—because what's love without a little emotional devastation first?
No matter how much angst she puts her characters through, she guarantees a happily ever after (or at least a very satisfying "about damn time").
When she's not torturing fictional souls, she can be found daydreaming, sipping iced lattes, and thinking up new ways to make her readers yell at their Kindles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
September 22, 2024
This was such an interesting debut and start to a series! Urban fantasy isn’t a genre I tend to spend a lot of time in so this had a lot of novelty value for me. This had a very dark city crime vibe for me (think Gotham-esque) which I really enjoyed.
Finch, our main character, is an assassin for a criminal group who kidnapped him as a child after murdering his family and finds himself struggling as his brother looks to follow in his footsteps.
The magic system in this series seems to be focused on ‘witches’ who are segregated into their own section of the city. The magic system seems to be hugely wide and varied. So far we’ve seen telekenetics (Finch our MC) Necromancers, conjures, illusionists, various elemental welders, shape shifters and shadow walkers to name a few. With such a wide range of magic to choose from who knows what else can come in future installments.
Finch is my favourite kind of messy, smart mouthed, baggage carrying, disaster bisexual. It should be worth noting that this is very much not a romance and if you are looking for something romance heavy this might not be the best fit for you. I get the impression that they are setting up a bit of a flirtation with the female character (on book two), but I know from the authors social media that the series is marketed as slow burn MM (I can tolerate a love triangle if I know what’s coming).
This very much feels like one story told over four books, rather than four books in the one universe. It’s been on a fast release schedule but it’s worth the heads up book 4 isn’t out till October so schedule your reading as you need 😂😂 ( I can already sense my frustration when I have to wait).
Quinn Cameron is definitely an author on my radar now and their future projects sound very interesting!
edit: there is no love triangle if you’re like me and don’t care for them. Just good ol’ tasty emotional slow burn 😮💨
Finch, our main character, is an assassin for a criminal group who kidnapped him as a child after murdering his family and finds himself struggling as his brother looks to follow in his footsteps.
The magic system in this series seems to be focused on ‘witches’ who are segregated into their own section of the city. The magic system seems to be hugely wide and varied. So far we’ve seen telekenetics (Finch our MC) Necromancers, conjures, illusionists, various elemental welders, shape shifters and shadow walkers to name a few. With such a wide range of magic to choose from who knows what else can come in future installments.
Finch is my favourite kind of messy, smart mouthed, baggage carrying, disaster bisexual. It should be worth noting that this is very much not a romance and if you are looking for something romance heavy this might not be the best fit for you. I get the impression that they are setting up a bit of a flirtation with the female character (on book two), but I know from the authors social media that the series is marketed as slow burn MM (I can tolerate a love triangle if I know what’s coming).
This very much feels like one story told over four books, rather than four books in the one universe. It’s been on a fast release schedule but it’s worth the heads up book 4 isn’t out till October so schedule your reading as you need 😂😂 ( I can already sense my frustration when I have to wait).
Quinn Cameron is definitely an author on my radar now and their future projects sound very interesting!
edit: there is no love triangle if you’re like me and don’t care for them. Just good ol’ tasty emotional slow burn 😮💨
October 18, 2024
Pulling Strings is the first book of a very beloved urban fantasy series that follows a powerful witch with telekinesis powers, Fitch Farrow. Commonly known as The Marionette, Fitch Farrow is the top serial killer of a gang called The Bloody Hex. Although he doesn’t like being a villain and doesn’t seem to agree with their values, Fitch continues to kill in order to keep his younger brother safe from the gang.
But when the gang boss decides it is time for his brother to start killing, Fitch will have to make a very difficult decision.
I picked up Pulling Strings because there is nothing I love more than hidden gems, and this debut novel has an average rating of 4.47 as I’m writing this review, and all my friends who tried it absolutely adored it. I don’t mind writing harsh reviews of popular books but, in this case, I’m very sorry that this honest review is about a debut series with less than one hundred ratings on GR.
Let’s start with the good: the writing style was great; I read this book extremely fast because it flows really well. I also liked the idea of this story, but I hated the execution. I found the characters’ actions and motivations, and the whole situation in general, extremely unrealistic-and not because it’s a fantasy book.
The main character, Fitch Farrow, is a very powerful killer who doesn’t want to be a killer. Sometimes he talks about how much he hates killing people, but I haven’t seen any real trauma, any real impact of everything he was asked to do. It’s one of those stories were the author makes it 'dark' by adding things like murder, without adding the emotional impact that goes with it, so they talk about killing people almost as if they were killing flies in order to keep it comfortable and light for the reader. Fitch is, for the most part, a sassy character who seems to go against the leader, disrespecting him and even ignoring what he’s saying at times, but doesn’t actually do anything to change his situation.
I was expecting Fitch to be in a really bad position: his brother is captive of this bad gang boss and Fitch has to kill for them to save his brother, but it’s not like that: his brother is free, and he actually wants to join the gang. Not only that, but it’s revealed that this gang actually murder their father and took them captive when they were younger. I was also expecting some real fear towards the gang boss after being controlled by them their whole lives but, again, his brother seems happy in the gang and Fitch disrespects the leader's authority on a daily basis.
On top of that, the power dynamics are confusing. The leader of the Bloody Hex seems way less powerful than Fitch so I don’t understand why Fitch can’t just plan a way to kill the actual powerful witches of the gang and eliminate the leader, instead of going along with them. Moreover, the whole Bloody Hex doesn’t make sense: they are against the government, but the leader never actually tells them what they are trying to achieve. When you try to raise a revolution, you have to tell people why they should fight for you. In this book, people join the gang just because they are criminals ¿?
It’s also never explained how Fitch and the Bloody Hex manage to go unnoticed, when they always hang out at the same pub and, when they announce that they are looking for new members, a whole cast of criminals go to the auditions. Is the government completely blind? I could keep going about everything that didn’t make sense to me, but I’d be here all day.
Lastly, while this is labeled as a MM romance, there isn’t any real romance in it. It’s supposedly a mm slow burn throughout the series, but in this first book you don’t have any. That didn’t bother me a lot, but make sure that you don’t mind that Fitch kind of flirts with a woman instead.
Overall, this was sadly not the book for me. What bothered me the most was the inconsistency between the hero’s actions and his thoughts/goals, the fact that the author failed to make me see the leader as a terrifying villain nobody is able to cross and the politics/ideals (Bloody Hex versus the government) were barely explained.
However, this is a hidden gem for a lot of my friends so I encourage you to read other reviews if you like a ‘dark story’ that’s actually full of humor, so you have the ‘balance’ between fun and blood even if the situation is not realistic.
*Rating: 1.5 stars
But when the gang boss decides it is time for his brother to start killing, Fitch will have to make a very difficult decision.
I picked up Pulling Strings because there is nothing I love more than hidden gems, and this debut novel has an average rating of 4.47 as I’m writing this review, and all my friends who tried it absolutely adored it. I don’t mind writing harsh reviews of popular books but, in this case, I’m very sorry that this honest review is about a debut series with less than one hundred ratings on GR.
Let’s start with the good: the writing style was great; I read this book extremely fast because it flows really well. I also liked the idea of this story, but I hated the execution. I found the characters’ actions and motivations, and the whole situation in general, extremely unrealistic-and not because it’s a fantasy book.
The main character, Fitch Farrow, is a very powerful killer who doesn’t want to be a killer. Sometimes he talks about how much he hates killing people, but I haven’t seen any real trauma, any real impact of everything he was asked to do. It’s one of those stories were the author makes it 'dark' by adding things like murder, without adding the emotional impact that goes with it, so they talk about killing people almost as if they were killing flies in order to keep it comfortable and light for the reader. Fitch is, for the most part, a sassy character who seems to go against the leader, disrespecting him and even ignoring what he’s saying at times, but doesn’t actually do anything to change his situation.
I was expecting Fitch to be in a really bad position: his brother is captive of this bad gang boss and Fitch has to kill for them to save his brother, but it’s not like that: his brother is free, and he actually wants to join the gang. Not only that, but it’s revealed that this gang actually murder their father and took them captive when they were younger. I was also expecting some real fear towards the gang boss after being controlled by them their whole lives but, again, his brother seems happy in the gang and Fitch disrespects the leader's authority on a daily basis.
On top of that, the power dynamics are confusing. The leader of the Bloody Hex seems way less powerful than Fitch so I don’t understand why Fitch can’t just plan a way to kill the actual powerful witches of the gang and eliminate the leader, instead of going along with them. Moreover, the whole Bloody Hex doesn’t make sense: they are against the government, but the leader never actually tells them what they are trying to achieve. When you try to raise a revolution, you have to tell people why they should fight for you. In this book, people join the gang just because they are criminals ¿?
It’s also never explained how Fitch and the Bloody Hex manage to go unnoticed, when they always hang out at the same pub and, when they announce that they are looking for new members, a whole cast of criminals go to the auditions. Is the government completely blind? I could keep going about everything that didn’t make sense to me, but I’d be here all day.
Lastly, while this is labeled as a MM romance, there isn’t any real romance in it. It’s supposedly a mm slow burn throughout the series, but in this first book you don’t have any. That didn’t bother me a lot, but make sure that you don’t mind that Fitch kind of flirts with a woman instead.
Overall, this was sadly not the book for me. What bothered me the most was the inconsistency between the hero’s actions and his thoughts/goals, the fact that the author failed to make me see the leader as a terrifying villain nobody is able to cross and the politics/ideals (Bloody Hex versus the government) were barely explained.
However, this is a hidden gem for a lot of my friends so I encourage you to read other reviews if you like a ‘dark story’ that’s actually full of humor, so you have the ‘balance’ between fun and blood even if the situation is not realistic.
*Rating: 1.5 stars
September 8, 2024
Such a solid start to this series! I am absolutely invested, starting book 2 immediately. This is a very nicely written urban fantasy with a complex plot and strong character development. The world building and magic/fantasy/paranormal elements are well done and not too busy or over explained. There is an original vibe that I really like. The writing is snappy, it’s fast paced and very easy to read.
My ONLY qualm with this is the lack of romance. I LOVE a slow burn and was expecting that here, I knew it wasn’t going to be much but there is barely a hint of building tension. I’ve finished this without knowing for sure who the love interest will eventually be. So please keep this in mind to avoid disappointment, despite this (as a reader who always needs a touch of romance) I still thought this read was extremely well worth it and have hopes for more romance building in the rest of the series.
My ONLY qualm with this is the lack of romance. I LOVE a slow burn and was expecting that here, I knew it wasn’t going to be much but there is barely a hint of building tension. I’ve finished this without knowing for sure who the love interest will eventually be. So please keep this in mind to avoid disappointment, despite this (as a reader who always needs a touch of romance) I still thought this read was extremely well worth it and have hopes for more romance building in the rest of the series.
September 10, 2024
UPDATE: I've now read the entire series and it gets better and better. The series is also a solid MM, for those who may be wondering. Dive in and meet the marionette, you won't regret it.
*
Well, well, well, this was a pleasant surprise. I had a feeling it was going to be good when I read the sample and couldn't wait to dive into the full book.
I rarely read now (I wish I read more), and rarely personally rec books because of it. But this one caught my eye. The solid writing and Fitch's sassy, snarky voice sold it to me. I mean, how can I resist a book about an assassin known as the Marionette? Throw in that anti-hero vibe, a gritty rough around the edges world, and a mess of a main character, and I am so there.
Fitch Farrow is our chain-smoking, potion-taking, alcoholic (he can quit anytime, just not right now) assassin (alleged assassin), and he's late for his "appointment". The boss of the Bloody Hex needs some poor guy dealt with in a way that sends a message. Hungover and cocky, Fitch gets the job done, but it's sloppy. Doesn't matter though, he's the marionette, with 31 kills to his name, almost a celebrity in the walled witch city.
All that changes when, trying to keep his brother from the gang's clutches, Fitch gets arrested.
Fitch's snark isn't much help in jail, with his powers muffled.
The irony of course, is that the Bloody Hex's boss, Grimm, is the true puppetmaster. Fitch knows it, and doesn't care. It's too late for him. But he'll save his brother, consequences be damned.
This book is a whole heap of urban fantasy fun and it's right up my dark alley. The writing is on point, and the story riveting, with an ensemble of interesting (and equally messed up) side-characters that keep things lively.
Highly recommended. I'm diving in to the next one...
*
Well, well, well, this was a pleasant surprise. I had a feeling it was going to be good when I read the sample and couldn't wait to dive into the full book.
I rarely read now (I wish I read more), and rarely personally rec books because of it. But this one caught my eye. The solid writing and Fitch's sassy, snarky voice sold it to me. I mean, how can I resist a book about an assassin known as the Marionette? Throw in that anti-hero vibe, a gritty rough around the edges world, and a mess of a main character, and I am so there.
Fitch Farrow is our chain-smoking, potion-taking, alcoholic (he can quit anytime, just not right now) assassin (alleged assassin), and he's late for his "appointment". The boss of the Bloody Hex needs some poor guy dealt with in a way that sends a message. Hungover and cocky, Fitch gets the job done, but it's sloppy. Doesn't matter though, he's the marionette, with 31 kills to his name, almost a celebrity in the walled witch city.
All that changes when, trying to keep his brother from the gang's clutches, Fitch gets arrested.
Fitch's snark isn't much help in jail, with his powers muffled.
The irony of course, is that the Bloody Hex's boss, Grimm, is the true puppetmaster. Fitch knows it, and doesn't care. It's too late for him. But he'll save his brother, consequences be damned.
This book is a whole heap of urban fantasy fun and it's right up my dark alley. The writing is on point, and the story riveting, with an ensemble of interesting (and equally messed up) side-characters that keep things lively.
Highly recommended. I'm diving in to the next one...
Want to read
April 3, 2025This book is free on Amazon (Canada) today (04/03/2025). 🙂
October 25, 2024
okay, this got off to a somewhat exciting start in the east side tower, but i felt like it stalled after that before picking up a little in the end. i expected this to be plot focused and action packed/fast paced, but i didn’t find the second to be true. i feel like the story moves from event to event in a fashion that’s like…right below interesting😬 the idea is there and it’s wonderfully creative, but i found the execution pretty stale, esp with the gang.
like the gang is probably the most confusing part of this. bc obvi since they’re a gang, they’re supposed to be fearsome, like the main enemy of the capitol, but there wasn’t a strong scary vibe to them. they came off as a bunch of disorganized fools who also happen to do crime in the same disorganized way….i can’t take them seriously. there’s just an air of idiotic biker gang to them lmao idk how to describe it🤣🤣 like they have their own personal killing machine in fitch who, with his brand of telekinetic magic, could make his kills look accidental or like suicide, and apparently has been doing that, but is somehow still notorious for being a mass murderer bc he’s obvious enough that everyone still knows it’s him killing these people?? like is he even trying to get away with these murders or is he just bullshitting his way thru them, cocky and unprepared bc whatever?? like there’s sending a message and then there’s stupidity.
the east side tower was exciting, but also incredibly frustrating the more i think about it. fitch is a chaotic, binge-drinking, chain-smoking mess who just kinda flies by the seat of his pants. he fucks himself by waiting until the very last minute to kill his mark. but he’s got a strict deadline, so he’s forced to go to the east side tower, a very public place full of people and cameras, to kill this guy at WORK….he’s late enough already from his drunken escapades the night before, that his mark is already in a meeting with 10 other people….the meeting that fitch was supposed to make sure he wasn’t able to attend and cast a vote🤦♀️ so he’s forced to kill this guy telekinetically in front of 10 people(!!) before trying to escape where he gets caught on camera in the building🤦♀️ and bc he was so late, he drove his own personal vehicle, a very noticeable porsche, and used valet parking🤦♀️ and the valet parking attendant was able to identify him and even point out to police where he parked fitch’s vehicle🤦♀️ and we know this bc fitch was still IN said vehicle, getting ready to flee the scene🤦♀️ also, did i mention he’s notorious enough that he’s easily recognizable and he did nothing to hide who he was except for putting the hand with his gang tattoo in his pocket??🤦♀️ it’s like bad decision after bad decision.
and then there’s gang leader, grimm, who fitch obviously does not like bc grimm has forced him into this kind of life. and fitch is openly contrary and disrespectful toward grimm, like when they’re at Bitters’ End in front of other people. like what fucking gang leader would allow that?? grimm seems annoyed and angry with fitch’s behavior, yes, but mostly exasperated bc fitch is out of his ability to properly control. like what kind of gang leader is unable to inspire their followers to respect them, either by being likable, by manipulation, or by force? if your men disrespect you, you bring them to heel, and you make sure they never do it again. grimm will gather his gang for a meeting and half of them won’t even be paying attention! i’m being TOLD grimm inspires fear, and uses fear to manipulate and keep people in line….and to a certain extent, he does that by using fitch’s brother to get fitch to kill for him….but then i’m also being SHOWN all of this evidence that no one respects grimm and he isn’t anything close to formidable like you would expect from a gang leader.
then there’s fitch’s brother, donovan, who absolutely hero worships fitch and wants to be just like him, and fitch….well….we’re sold a story that fitch would do anything to save his brother and keep his brother from losing himself the way fitch did to become the marionette. in fact, part of the reason why fitch became the marionette is bc he was protecting his brother from grimm, who exploits fitch’s love for his brother to manipulate fitch into doing what he wants.
but what confuses me is the way fitch acts around his brother. fitch kinda treats donovan like an annoyance and is very dismissive and doesn’t really listen to his brother. it almost feels like fitch is irked around his brother bc he’s preoccupied with his own life and he doesn’t have time for this. plus fitch and the gang are witches and donovan is a human. so all this results in donovan having this intense yearning for his brother’s approval and respect. he thinks he can achieve this by being initiated into the gang, which would result from donovan killing someone, kinda like a made man. fitch is very against this and doesn’t want his brother to ever have to murder or be under someone’s thumb like he is….he’s wants his brother to have a normal and safe life and live well. so fitch tries everything he possibly can to stop donovan from being initiated, including trying to take him out of the city while he’s supposed to be driving donovan to his planned initiation. this is all well and good, except for the fact that he treats his brother like he always does, so his brother obviously gets this feeling like fitch doesn’t think he’s capable and he doesn’t respect him, and it only make donovan more needy to stay and prove himself.
and here’s the thing: donovan IS completely incompetent and unfit for gang life. he’s like a newborn foal with gangly legs trying to walk for the first time. if there’s a way for donovan to fuck something up, chances are he will. honestly, he’s so fucking incompetent that i struggle to understand how he has even survived this long around the gang. bc he spent quite a few of his formative years around the gang, living with the gang, and guess what? donovan hasn’t learned a SINGLE. FUCKING. THING. zero fucking survival skills, zero fucking skills that would help with crime life, like learning to fight, learning your way around weapons, literally fucking anything!! which only makes the gang more laughable and less intimidating. so you’re telling me donovan wants to join the gang and follow in his brother’s footsteps, KNOWING he’s a HUMAN in a witch’s world, and has done absolutely FUCK NOTHING to prepare himself for that???🙄🙄🙄 he wants to be useful to the gang, to do what big bro does, to be respected and taken seriously by fitch and the gang, yet does fucking nothing to gain any valuable advantages or skill sets that will set him apart and help him be just as useful as witches??? my fuck. he just ends up being an annoying nuisance and complete liability.
so while i can understand some of the way fitch acts around his brother, i just can’t help but question if he even LIKES his brother. we’re told he does, sure. we watch fitch try to get his brother a better life, yes. but the dismissive and annoyed manner that fitch always seems to adopt in his interactions with his brother leave me wondering. i also question if fitch notices that his brother hero worships him. bc he also seems to have this inability to effectively explain to his brother the reasons why he doesn't want his brother in the gang and why he thinks donovan leaving the city is the best choice. and if he understood donovan’s hero worship, maybe he’d be able to get it thru donovan’s thick skull why he shouldn’t idolize fitch’s life. ugh it just gets on my nerves bc the incompetence of everyone is overwhelming....a great summary for my main issues with the book😂😂
so while everyone is incompetent in some way, it’s also clear that grimm very much NEEDS fitch in order for his plans to succeed, probably bc of how powerful fitch’s magic is…..oh and did i mention that fitch’s magic makes it pretty fucking easy to keep people immobile and break their fucking necks sooo…..what’s keeping him from breaking grimm’s neck??? he doesn’t want to be under grimm’s thumb and forced to murder, and he doesn’t want his brother’s life to turn into that either so….i guess i’m just confused when grimm’s magic is illusion magic, interesting, but not deadly. and fitch’s magic could easily snap grimm’s and all the hex members’ necks if fitch just had a tiny bit for forethought. and he and his brother would be free to live their lives, esp after fitch won his trial.
i think that’s part of my issue with the plot being somewhat boring: being unable to take the gang seriously, and this book takes a lot of time to establish the inner workings of the gang and grimm as character, plus fitch's issues with gang life and donovan's desire for it. but i also just found some portions of the book to be drawn out and dull, such as the prison stint. this book just feels like an exhaustive introduction really, and i think, perhaps, streamlining it would have helped the plot to feel more exciting.
moving on to the "romance". there is almost no foundation built for the main couple. we establish in the first chapter that they are, what? friends with occasional benefits that also fuck other people too? and then there is absolutely nothing moving forward. there really couldn't be anyway bc the love interest barely shows up. like, if i didn't already know who the love interest was gonna be, i wouldn't have been able to guess. i'm not mad at no romance in book 1 of a 4 book series, but such minimal groundwork leaves me a bit worried.
but i will say that i am still cautiously intrigued by the possibilities of this magical world and its potential storylines, including the romance, so i’ll carry on with book 2. fingers crossed tho😬🤞
like the gang is probably the most confusing part of this. bc obvi since they’re a gang, they’re supposed to be fearsome, like the main enemy of the capitol, but there wasn’t a strong scary vibe to them. they came off as a bunch of disorganized fools who also happen to do crime in the same disorganized way….i can’t take them seriously. there’s just an air of idiotic biker gang to them lmao idk how to describe it🤣🤣 like they have their own personal killing machine in fitch who, with his brand of telekinetic magic, could make his kills look accidental or like suicide, and apparently has been doing that, but is somehow still notorious for being a mass murderer bc he’s obvious enough that everyone still knows it’s him killing these people?? like is he even trying to get away with these murders or is he just bullshitting his way thru them, cocky and unprepared bc whatever?? like there’s sending a message and then there’s stupidity.
the east side tower was exciting, but also incredibly frustrating the more i think about it. fitch is a chaotic, binge-drinking, chain-smoking mess who just kinda flies by the seat of his pants. he fucks himself by waiting until the very last minute to kill his mark. but he’s got a strict deadline, so he’s forced to go to the east side tower, a very public place full of people and cameras, to kill this guy at WORK….he’s late enough already from his drunken escapades the night before, that his mark is already in a meeting with 10 other people….the meeting that fitch was supposed to make sure he wasn’t able to attend and cast a vote🤦♀️ so he’s forced to kill this guy telekinetically in front of 10 people(!!) before trying to escape where he gets caught on camera in the building🤦♀️ and bc he was so late, he drove his own personal vehicle, a very noticeable porsche, and used valet parking🤦♀️ and the valet parking attendant was able to identify him and even point out to police where he parked fitch’s vehicle🤦♀️ and we know this bc fitch was still IN said vehicle, getting ready to flee the scene🤦♀️ also, did i mention he’s notorious enough that he’s easily recognizable and he did nothing to hide who he was except for putting the hand with his gang tattoo in his pocket??🤦♀️ it’s like bad decision after bad decision.
and then there’s gang leader, grimm, who fitch obviously does not like bc grimm has forced him into this kind of life. and fitch is openly contrary and disrespectful toward grimm, like when they’re at Bitters’ End in front of other people. like what fucking gang leader would allow that?? grimm seems annoyed and angry with fitch’s behavior, yes, but mostly exasperated bc fitch is out of his ability to properly control. like what kind of gang leader is unable to inspire their followers to respect them, either by being likable, by manipulation, or by force? if your men disrespect you, you bring them to heel, and you make sure they never do it again. grimm will gather his gang for a meeting and half of them won’t even be paying attention! i’m being TOLD grimm inspires fear, and uses fear to manipulate and keep people in line….and to a certain extent, he does that by using fitch’s brother to get fitch to kill for him….but then i’m also being SHOWN all of this evidence that no one respects grimm and he isn’t anything close to formidable like you would expect from a gang leader.
then there’s fitch’s brother, donovan, who absolutely hero worships fitch and wants to be just like him, and fitch….well….we’re sold a story that fitch would do anything to save his brother and keep his brother from losing himself the way fitch did to become the marionette. in fact, part of the reason why fitch became the marionette is bc he was protecting his brother from grimm, who exploits fitch’s love for his brother to manipulate fitch into doing what he wants.
but what confuses me is the way fitch acts around his brother. fitch kinda treats donovan like an annoyance and is very dismissive and doesn’t really listen to his brother. it almost feels like fitch is irked around his brother bc he’s preoccupied with his own life and he doesn’t have time for this. plus fitch and the gang are witches and donovan is a human. so all this results in donovan having this intense yearning for his brother’s approval and respect. he thinks he can achieve this by being initiated into the gang, which would result from donovan killing someone, kinda like a made man. fitch is very against this and doesn’t want his brother to ever have to murder or be under someone’s thumb like he is….he’s wants his brother to have a normal and safe life and live well. so fitch tries everything he possibly can to stop donovan from being initiated, including trying to take him out of the city while he’s supposed to be driving donovan to his planned initiation. this is all well and good, except for the fact that he treats his brother like he always does, so his brother obviously gets this feeling like fitch doesn’t think he’s capable and he doesn’t respect him, and it only make donovan more needy to stay and prove himself.
and here’s the thing: donovan IS completely incompetent and unfit for gang life. he’s like a newborn foal with gangly legs trying to walk for the first time. if there’s a way for donovan to fuck something up, chances are he will. honestly, he’s so fucking incompetent that i struggle to understand how he has even survived this long around the gang. bc he spent quite a few of his formative years around the gang, living with the gang, and guess what? donovan hasn’t learned a SINGLE. FUCKING. THING. zero fucking survival skills, zero fucking skills that would help with crime life, like learning to fight, learning your way around weapons, literally fucking anything!! which only makes the gang more laughable and less intimidating. so you’re telling me donovan wants to join the gang and follow in his brother’s footsteps, KNOWING he’s a HUMAN in a witch’s world, and has done absolutely FUCK NOTHING to prepare himself for that???🙄🙄🙄 he wants to be useful to the gang, to do what big bro does, to be respected and taken seriously by fitch and the gang, yet does fucking nothing to gain any valuable advantages or skill sets that will set him apart and help him be just as useful as witches??? my fuck. he just ends up being an annoying nuisance and complete liability.
so while i can understand some of the way fitch acts around his brother, i just can’t help but question if he even LIKES his brother. we’re told he does, sure. we watch fitch try to get his brother a better life, yes. but the dismissive and annoyed manner that fitch always seems to adopt in his interactions with his brother leave me wondering. i also question if fitch notices that his brother hero worships him. bc he also seems to have this inability to effectively explain to his brother the reasons why he doesn't want his brother in the gang and why he thinks donovan leaving the city is the best choice. and if he understood donovan’s hero worship, maybe he’d be able to get it thru donovan’s thick skull why he shouldn’t idolize fitch’s life. ugh it just gets on my nerves bc the incompetence of everyone is overwhelming....a great summary for my main issues with the book😂😂
so while everyone is incompetent in some way, it’s also clear that grimm very much NEEDS fitch in order for his plans to succeed, probably bc of how powerful fitch’s magic is…..oh and did i mention that fitch’s magic makes it pretty fucking easy to keep people immobile and break their fucking necks sooo…..what’s keeping him from breaking grimm’s neck??? he doesn’t want to be under grimm’s thumb and forced to murder, and he doesn’t want his brother’s life to turn into that either so….i guess i’m just confused when grimm’s magic is illusion magic, interesting, but not deadly. and fitch’s magic could easily snap grimm’s and all the hex members’ necks if fitch just had a tiny bit for forethought. and he and his brother would be free to live their lives, esp after fitch won his trial.
i think that’s part of my issue with the plot being somewhat boring: being unable to take the gang seriously, and this book takes a lot of time to establish the inner workings of the gang and grimm as character, plus fitch's issues with gang life and donovan's desire for it. but i also just found some portions of the book to be drawn out and dull, such as the prison stint. this book just feels like an exhaustive introduction really, and i think, perhaps, streamlining it would have helped the plot to feel more exciting.
moving on to the "romance". there is almost no foundation built for the main couple. we establish in the first chapter that they are, what? friends with occasional benefits that also fuck other people too? and then there is absolutely nothing moving forward. there really couldn't be anyway bc the love interest barely shows up. like, if i didn't already know who the love interest was gonna be, i wouldn't have been able to guess. i'm not mad at no romance in book 1 of a 4 book series, but such minimal groundwork leaves me a bit worried.
but i will say that i am still cautiously intrigued by the possibilities of this magical world and its potential storylines, including the romance, so i’ll carry on with book 2. fingers crossed tho😬🤞
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2024
READ IT! I love the writing style, I love the story, and these are the most lovable flawed characters I’ve read all year. The banter between characters is hilarious and endearing. I cannot wait to read up the rest of the story. I’m so glad I stumbled upon this little gem. #TEAMCLYDE
October 20, 2024
I give up. I got to Fitch's arrest and just have no emotional investment in this book. There's nothing remotely romantic even hinted at to latch on to, just a F-boi who gets plastered and makes TSTL decision after decision. And I don't get why he's even in this gang situation, given he can practically rip people apart with a thought. Why not just do that? What stops him? It's not clear, and I just don't care. There's nothing at stake. His younger brother even WANTS to join the gang, and Fitch has never done one single thing to ever try to stop him from feeling that way. I might be interested in reading about his brother?! But this badly needed a Save the Cat moment and I got nothing.
December 16, 2024
The opening scene of "Pulling Strings" has its antihero, a magic-using hitman named Fitch, nearly oversleeping for -- let's call it an appointment. This turns out to be his thirtieth killing, and although he's less than fully committed to his employment situation, I'd still expect a competent hitman to do a little research in advance of the job. So I did a double-take when he entered his target's office building and was "relieved to find no receptionist."
(Buildings generally have doorpeople and/or security guards rather than receptionists, anyway, but let that pass -- except, why isn't there a security guard or six?)
Once I started to pick at the plotting, more and more problems presented themselves. Fitch is notorious -- there's even a fandom, with fanart -- and people apparently know what he looks like, but for some reason it's a big problem that he's recognized while carrying out this hit. But if it's a problem for him to be recognized, then why hasn't he made any effort at disguise? (Something else that could have been planned in advance.)
The narrative then makes a point of the victim's ugliness and his PA's age (old women, ew, amirite?) and treats both of them as somewhat contemptible. I didn't love that.
Fitch sometimes seems to understand that he was coerced into joining the criminal gang run by Grimm, yet sometimes he either doesn't remember or it doesn't matter: I couldn't tell. There's a prison break during which Grimm is nearly killed; Fitch saves his life, but why? Grimm is essentially holding Fitch's younger brother hostage, and since he seems to be the linchpin of the whole enterprise, wouldn't it be expedient to let him die and thus throw the gang into disarray?
The worldbuilding was murky, too -- I didn't have a clear picture of the city where the action took place, or of the context for the politics that inform Grimm's ambitions. I wasn't even sure whether "the Capitol" was a very large building or a consequence of confusion between capitols and capitals.
Two stars because in spite of everything I did want to find out what happened next. On the other hand, I don't want to find out badly enough to continue the series.
Thanks to GRR for the ARC.
(Buildings generally have doorpeople and/or security guards rather than receptionists, anyway, but let that pass -- except, why isn't there a security guard or six?)
Once I started to pick at the plotting, more and more problems presented themselves. Fitch is notorious -- there's even a fandom, with fanart -- and people apparently know what he looks like, but for some reason it's a big problem that he's recognized while carrying out this hit. But if it's a problem for him to be recognized, then why hasn't he made any effort at disguise? (Something else that could have been planned in advance.)
The narrative then makes a point of the victim's ugliness and his PA's age (old women, ew, amirite?) and treats both of them as somewhat contemptible. I didn't love that.
Fitch sometimes seems to understand that he was coerced into joining the criminal gang run by Grimm, yet sometimes he either doesn't remember or it doesn't matter: I couldn't tell. There's a prison break during which Grimm is nearly killed; Fitch saves his life, but why? Grimm is essentially holding Fitch's younger brother hostage, and since he seems to be the linchpin of the whole enterprise, wouldn't it be expedient to let him die and thus throw the gang into disarray?
The worldbuilding was murky, too -- I didn't have a clear picture of the city where the action took place, or of the context for the politics that inform Grimm's ambitions. I wasn't even sure whether "the Capitol" was a very large building or a consequence of confusion between capitols and capitals.
Two stars because in spite of everything I did want to find out what happened next. On the other hand, I don't want to find out badly enough to continue the series.
Thanks to GRR for the ARC.
July 7, 2024
This book had me hooked from the beginning. I loved the universe the author created and devoured every word. I read this in one sitting ( much to my husbands chagrin) and am starting book 2 asap. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to lose themselves in a book world for a little while.
September 4, 2024
4.25 Stars ⭐️
This was another "new to me" author. I saw a recommendation from an author that I enjoy and thought, "this sounds interesting."
It was.
We are introduced to Fitch Farrow who happens to be an assassin for the gang The Bloody Hex. It took me a little while to understand everything, but we are dropped into a world where it appears as if witches live in a sort of walled compound. There are different types of witches with many supernatural powers - i.e. technomancy, shadowmancy, watermancy, etc. Our MMC is not only a technomancer, but he is mentally able to get people to move their bodies as well, whether they want to or not. As an assassin, that comes in handy.
Little by little we learn that Fitch was the son of a Capital Investigator (think the FBI) who was assassinated by The Bloody Hex when Fitch was a teenager. The only reason he and his little brother survived was because one of the thugs was violently shaking his brother and Fitch mentally tore the guy into pieces before he was able to kill him. Yep, he was surprised too.
So, it is now about a decade later and the leader of the gang- Grimm - has managed to turn Fitch into the most famous and prolific (serial?) killer - he has 31 kills. The one thing that motivates Fitch is trying to protect his little brother. Donovan is only human - he has no powers, but he has not had been inducted into the gang yet and he hasn't had to kill. Fitch has been doing it instead.
When we begin, Donovan is turning 20 and is now going to be inducted - but he has to make his first kill for it to be official. Fitch is adamantly opposed to this and because of this, he reacts badly. Did I mention that Fitch is already a basket case? He is a chain smoking alcoholic (even though he says he can stop anytime- he’s just not ready ) who ends up in a different bed every night and he really is a mess. There are also so many different emotions going on under the surface in this story, mainly because of Grimm's extreme talent at manipulation. He is and has been using the brothers against each other. Donovan looks up to Fitch and only wants to be like his big brother, but Fitch doesn't understand that - he only wants Donnie safe, he doesn’t want him to have to lose himself and become what Fitch has become. His solution is that he wants Donnie as far away from the gang as possible. Needless to say, Donnie doesn’t understand and they do not agree on this.
In this book, Fitch is arrested trying to save Donnie. We then follow along to see the results - to see what is going to happen. If he is convicted, the Capital is going to chop off his head with a guillotine, something Fitch is obviously opposed to. I guess you can say that The Capital is beyond excited to have finally caught the famous killer.
The storyline was fun and interesting. There is more going on than meets the eye. Grimm has a definite plan regarding the future of the city and his goal to eventually take over leadership. Another surprise is when we discover that Fitch used to have a personal relationship with one of the Capital's most important investigators (remember, his father had been an famous investigator and they had been very close with many of his colleagues and their families before he was killed.) So, there is lots going on.
This was a quick and easy read and I enjoyed it quite a bit. It didn't end in a cliffhanger, but it definitely set up the second book.
This was another "new to me" author. I saw a recommendation from an author that I enjoy and thought, "this sounds interesting."
It was.
We are introduced to Fitch Farrow who happens to be an assassin for the gang The Bloody Hex. It took me a little while to understand everything, but we are dropped into a world where it appears as if witches live in a sort of walled compound. There are different types of witches with many supernatural powers - i.e. technomancy, shadowmancy, watermancy, etc. Our MMC is not only a technomancer, but he is mentally able to get people to move their bodies as well, whether they want to or not. As an assassin, that comes in handy.
Little by little we learn that Fitch was the son of a Capital Investigator (think the FBI) who was assassinated by The Bloody Hex when Fitch was a teenager. The only reason he and his little brother survived was because one of the thugs was violently shaking his brother and Fitch mentally tore the guy into pieces before he was able to kill him. Yep, he was surprised too.
So, it is now about a decade later and the leader of the gang- Grimm - has managed to turn Fitch into the most famous and prolific (serial?) killer - he has 31 kills. The one thing that motivates Fitch is trying to protect his little brother. Donovan is only human - he has no powers, but he has not had been inducted into the gang yet and he hasn't had to kill. Fitch has been doing it instead.
When we begin, Donovan is turning 20 and is now going to be inducted - but he has to make his first kill for it to be official. Fitch is adamantly opposed to this and because of this, he reacts badly. Did I mention that Fitch is already a basket case? He is a chain smoking alcoholic (even though he says he can stop anytime- he’s just not ready ) who ends up in a different bed every night and he really is a mess. There are also so many different emotions going on under the surface in this story, mainly because of Grimm's extreme talent at manipulation. He is and has been using the brothers against each other. Donovan looks up to Fitch and only wants to be like his big brother, but Fitch doesn't understand that - he only wants Donnie safe, he doesn’t want him to have to lose himself and become what Fitch has become. His solution is that he wants Donnie as far away from the gang as possible. Needless to say, Donnie doesn’t understand and they do not agree on this.
In this book, Fitch is arrested trying to save Donnie. We then follow along to see the results - to see what is going to happen. If he is convicted, the Capital is going to chop off his head with a guillotine, something Fitch is obviously opposed to. I guess you can say that The Capital is beyond excited to have finally caught the famous killer.
The storyline was fun and interesting. There is more going on than meets the eye. Grimm has a definite plan regarding the future of the city and his goal to eventually take over leadership. Another surprise is when we discover that Fitch used to have a personal relationship with one of the Capital's most important investigators (remember, his father had been an famous investigator and they had been very close with many of his colleagues and their families before he was killed.) So, there is lots going on.
This was a quick and easy read and I enjoyed it quite a bit. It didn't end in a cliffhanger, but it definitely set up the second book.
July 1, 2024
“Happy murderversary,”
Okay, I admit I downloaded the book because of the title and cover. Normally I prefer good people dealing with a dark world, but sometimes I need something fresh...and what better than an assassin and a male POV?
26 years old with 30 kills tattooed on his fingers left Fitch a drunken, chain-smoking telekenetic who could barely reach his target in time. Needless to say, everyone knew his name, and he was excellent at last-minute escapes.
They called him the Marionette, but the real puppeteer was his The Bloody Hex’s leader, Grimm. Grimm had an easy way to manage Fitch: his younger brother Donovan. Donovan had no powers, but he grew up in the gang and was about to be conscripted despite his ‘disability’. Fitch, however, wanted Donovan to stay innocent, normal, and safe.
Fitch’s latest murder made the headlines. Since the loss of another member of the gang allowed Donovan to be initiated, Grimm punished Fitch by demanding he ensure that Donovan’s first kill be successful.
I could see why Donovan was so enthusiastic about joining the gang, since it was the only family he knew. I could also see why Fitch drank so much, dependent upon a villainous profession he didn’t desire.
I spent most of the novel wanting this self-destructive man realize he can take control of his life and stop the madness 🫣! Doesn’t he want to be a better man?
The WORLD:
Witches have been forced into a reservation, leading to a Gotham-like city with enforcers and gangs at each others’ throats. Fitch, unfortunately, was born with above-average power, which made him a target for the villains. Only those lacking power can leave.
I like the assortment of characters.
⁃ Both male and female lovers
⁃ Tattoos
⁃ Potions
⁃ OOh, impersonation 😁!
⁃ Tic-Tac-Toe with a zombie
It’s Urban Fantasy and not a romance. The writing is engaging.
Okay, I admit I downloaded the book because of the title and cover. Normally I prefer good people dealing with a dark world, but sometimes I need something fresh...and what better than an assassin and a male POV?
26 years old with 30 kills tattooed on his fingers left Fitch a drunken, chain-smoking telekenetic who could barely reach his target in time. Needless to say, everyone knew his name, and he was excellent at last-minute escapes.
They called him the Marionette, but the real puppeteer was his The Bloody Hex’s leader, Grimm. Grimm had an easy way to manage Fitch: his younger brother Donovan. Donovan had no powers, but he grew up in the gang and was about to be conscripted despite his ‘disability’. Fitch, however, wanted Donovan to stay innocent, normal, and safe.
Fitch’s latest murder made the headlines. Since the loss of another member of the gang allowed Donovan to be initiated, Grimm punished Fitch by demanding he ensure that Donovan’s first kill be successful.
I could see why Donovan was so enthusiastic about joining the gang, since it was the only family he knew. I could also see why Fitch drank so much, dependent upon a villainous profession he didn’t desire.
I spent most of the novel wanting this self-destructive man realize he can take control of his life and stop the madness 🫣! Doesn’t he want to be a better man?
The WORLD:
Witches have been forced into a reservation, leading to a Gotham-like city with enforcers and gangs at each others’ throats. Fitch, unfortunately, was born with above-average power, which made him a target for the villains. Only those lacking power can leave.
I like the assortment of characters.
⁃ Both male and female lovers
⁃ Tattoos
⁃ Potions
⁃ OOh, impersonation 😁!
⁃ Tic-Tac-Toe with a zombie
It’s Urban Fantasy and not a romance. The writing is engaging.
August 22, 2024
This book was such a fun read! With a great mix of interesting and messed up characters, plots, relationships, etc, it had me hooked from start to finish. Getting to follow Fitch’s perspective in this and getting to know his character was so entertaining, and I loved seeing his development and thought processes. If you’re a fan of anything urban fantasy and like your characters a bit more on the rough side, this is the book for you. I received a free ARC of this, and I’m choosing to leave an honest review.
May 16, 2024
Awesome read !
I loved this book, this is one of the best paranormal fantasy I've ever read. I would definitely recommend reading this book if you're into fantasy. I loved that Fitch being the older brother was protective over Donovan and he was willing to do anything to protect him no matter what. Even though Donovan was hardheaded and he upset me for being so naive. But I can't wait for the next book to come out.
I loved this book, this is one of the best paranormal fantasy I've ever read. I would definitely recommend reading this book if you're into fantasy. I loved that Fitch being the older brother was protective over Donovan and he was willing to do anything to protect him no matter what. Even though Donovan was hardheaded and he upset me for being so naive. But I can't wait for the next book to come out.
August 30, 2024
I was told this would be a slow burn, and i'm not disappointed. I see so many layers of this story coming together, and i'm excited to see what happens next. Fitch is a very injured main character, who would absolutely never admit to having an injury physical or psychological. I think I see where part of this is headed, and I hope I'm wrong because my heart already breaks for him. I'm excited to see what happens next.
Read
August 2, 2024Urban fantasy, not a romance.
Fitch is a mercenary desperately trying to keep his brother from joining The Hex, Fitch's mercenary guild.
Fitch goes to great lengths to keep Donovan safe.
The book ends on a cliffhanger.
Fitch is a mercenary desperately trying to keep his brother from joining The Hex, Fitch's mercenary guild.
Fitch goes to great lengths to keep Donovan safe.
The book ends on a cliffhanger.
March 11, 2024
Pulling strings is a fast paced easy and magical read that sucked me in from the start! I really enjoyed the male pov and the modern setting for magical beings. The MMC Fitch is a witch with telekinetic powers his badass sexy and witty personality is everything. but his brother is human. Fitch is doing everything in his power to protect his brother from the same fate with the bloody hex. The sequel cannot come fast enough I need to see what happens next I need fitch to bring down Grimm and I need Donovan to come to his senses.
April 30, 2024
I loved this story! Dystopian, witches, and so much intrigue!!!!! Fitch is part of the Bloody Hex and it looks like he’s been set up to take the fall for his gang and while he’s away in prison he starts to question his loyalties. Does he help the government offering him a way out or does he stay in the gang to protect his brother… or does he come up with a plan C and surprise everyone!!!! Ends on a cliffhanger !!!
August 25, 2024
Great Concept.
Great Execution.
Great Character Development.
However, this was tagged as MM Romance. There was none!
The MC is definitely bi - but to give this an MM Romance tag is grossly misleading!
Great Execution.
Great Character Development.
However, this was tagged as MM Romance. There was none!
The MC is definitely bi - but to give this an MM Romance tag is grossly misleading!
December 12, 2024
DNF @ 39%
I'm sorry but I can't anymore, simply because the story is bland, Fitch is frustrating and the rest of the cast (Fitch's brother, Grimm, etc) that has appeared is aggravating and meeh at the same time.
Although mainly my beef is with Fitch! There hasn't been a single woman that passed the pages till that point that he didn't leer at her and didn't have intercourse with at some point in his life. For an MM romance, even a slow burn one, with a bisexual MC, there was just too much ogling of females it got annoying. And the only male of some significance was Nash that got 1 page time in the very beginning, everyone else was described as sub-par.
But really I could get pass my annoyance for all of that, IF Fitch wasn't such a desultory individual. He could at any point sat down, figure out his mind and life and do something about it all but instead he lets himself be swept away by whatever. His thoughts and his actions are in 2 different directions and he has the means to change it but nuuuhh... Lau in their review here says it all!!! Although I do disagree in one point, the writing style might have made the story flow, but the story telling was slugging through molasses for me.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I'm sorry but I can't anymore, simply because the story is bland, Fitch is frustrating and the rest of the cast (Fitch's brother, Grimm, etc) that has appeared is aggravating and meeh at the same time.
Although mainly my beef is with Fitch! There hasn't been a single woman that passed the pages till that point that he didn't leer at her and didn't have intercourse with at some point in his life. For an MM romance, even a slow burn one, with a bisexual MC, there was just too much ogling of females it got annoying. And the only male of some significance was Nash that got 1 page time in the very beginning, everyone else was described as sub-par.
But really I could get pass my annoyance for all of that, IF Fitch wasn't such a desultory individual. He could at any point sat down, figure out his mind and life and do something about it all but instead he lets himself be swept away by whatever. His thoughts and his actions are in 2 different directions and he has the means to change it but nuuuhh... Lau in their review here says it all!!! Although I do disagree in one point, the writing style might have made the story flow, but the story telling was slugging through molasses for me.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
March 18, 2024
This is a great start to a new series and a very interesting take on magic in a modern world. I can't wait to read the next book.
To start, Fitch is a blond ball of snark, practically incapable of saying anything without a heavy coating of sarcasm. A coping mechanism? Could be, since the kid has had it rough! He witnessed the deaths of his parents by a magical gang and now has to act as an enforcer and assassin for that very same gang in order to protect his younger brother, who is a normal human in a city specifically populated by magic-users. Yet, like most tag-a-long kids, baby brother Donovan wants to follow in his brother's footsteps as an official member of the Bloody Hex gang, and Fitch's efforts to stop his initiation are derailed when he finds himself on trial for murder.
The setting is intriguing--the main cast are all in a city seemingly cordoned off from the rest of the nation of normals. People have moved on from hanging the witches, but that doesn't mean they want to bump shoulders with them on the daily either. This city, apparently located in my state of Maine (yay!), has its own laws and law enforcers in the Investigators, who have ways of deadening magic and think nothing of an "Off with his head!" approach to punishment.
How can Fitch safeguard his brother's innocence when he's barely one step away from the guillotine himself?
To start, Fitch is a blond ball of snark, practically incapable of saying anything without a heavy coating of sarcasm. A coping mechanism? Could be, since the kid has had it rough! He witnessed the deaths of his parents by a magical gang and now has to act as an enforcer and assassin for that very same gang in order to protect his younger brother, who is a normal human in a city specifically populated by magic-users. Yet, like most tag-a-long kids, baby brother Donovan wants to follow in his brother's footsteps as an official member of the Bloody Hex gang, and Fitch's efforts to stop his initiation are derailed when he finds himself on trial for murder.
The setting is intriguing--the main cast are all in a city seemingly cordoned off from the rest of the nation of normals. People have moved on from hanging the witches, but that doesn't mean they want to bump shoulders with them on the daily either. This city, apparently located in my state of Maine (yay!), has its own laws and law enforcers in the Investigators, who have ways of deadening magic and think nothing of an "Off with his head!" approach to punishment.
How can Fitch safeguard his brother's innocence when he's barely one step away from the guillotine himself?
August 7, 2024
**ARC REVIEW**
@cquinnwrite was kind enough to send me the first two books in her Marionette series in the lead up to the publication of the third book of the series, Brother's Keeper (out Aug 1st).
This book was such a fun read! It's gritty and unflinching in its depiction of crime in the world of magic that she's built. Finch is decidedly *not* a good dude, but he will do anything to keep his brother out of the life of crime that he had been forced into. He uses his telekinetic magic to act as an angel of death, forcing people to commit suicide to meet the agenda of his boss Grimm. He ends up in jail when a job goes sideways and the bigger game of his gang leader begins to unfurl before him. The cast of characters are all interesting, and I'm looking forward to more of them in the books that follow. The author bills this as a slow burn M/M romance (hitting two of my weaknesses!), so I'm all in for this to develop through the books that follow.
Its a really solid first book for the series and I'm definitely looking forward to picking up Capital Matters soon!
⚠️Warnings⚠️
Violence and death (on page). Drug and alcohol consumption. Incarceration. Rioting. Gang activity. Blackmail.
@cquinnwrite was kind enough to send me the first two books in her Marionette series in the lead up to the publication of the third book of the series, Brother's Keeper (out Aug 1st).
This book was such a fun read! It's gritty and unflinching in its depiction of crime in the world of magic that she's built. Finch is decidedly *not* a good dude, but he will do anything to keep his brother out of the life of crime that he had been forced into. He uses his telekinetic magic to act as an angel of death, forcing people to commit suicide to meet the agenda of his boss Grimm. He ends up in jail when a job goes sideways and the bigger game of his gang leader begins to unfurl before him. The cast of characters are all interesting, and I'm looking forward to more of them in the books that follow. The author bills this as a slow burn M/M romance (hitting two of my weaknesses!), so I'm all in for this to develop through the books that follow.
Its a really solid first book for the series and I'm definitely looking forward to picking up Capital Matters soon!
⚠️Warnings⚠️
Violence and death (on page). Drug and alcohol consumption. Incarceration. Rioting. Gang activity. Blackmail.
August 12, 2024
Quinn Cameron's first novel in the Marionette Series, "Pulling Strings," defied my expectations in the best possible way. From the first page, it was engaging, blending violence and fantasy seamlessly. Cameron has crafted a dark and dangerous world that pulls you in immediately.
I anticipated a typical MM novel, but this book demonstrates why the genre needs to expand beyond traditional conventions to include contemporary themes. Not all happy endings are cute and sweet; some, like this one, are dark, fun, and offer a unique reading experience. For instance, Fitch Farrow's internal struggles as a protector felt authentic, adding another layer of depth to the storyline.
For those seeking a traditional MM novel, be advised that this book leans more toward urban fantasy than classic MM romance. The characters are diverse, representing a wide range of sexual identities, making the novel inclusive and refreshing. Cameron's portrayal of these characters is both sensitive and realistic, contributing to the book's overall richness.
In conclusion, "Pulling Strings" is a captivating read that challenges genre conventions and offers a fresh perspective on urban fantasy. It's a must-read for those looking to explore beyond the typical MM novel.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I anticipated a typical MM novel, but this book demonstrates why the genre needs to expand beyond traditional conventions to include contemporary themes. Not all happy endings are cute and sweet; some, like this one, are dark, fun, and offer a unique reading experience. For instance, Fitch Farrow's internal struggles as a protector felt authentic, adding another layer of depth to the storyline.
For those seeking a traditional MM novel, be advised that this book leans more toward urban fantasy than classic MM romance. The characters are diverse, representing a wide range of sexual identities, making the novel inclusive and refreshing. Cameron's portrayal of these characters is both sensitive and realistic, contributing to the book's overall richness.
In conclusion, "Pulling Strings" is a captivating read that challenges genre conventions and offers a fresh perspective on urban fantasy. It's a must-read for those looking to explore beyond the typical MM novel.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 21, 2024
First off, this was a breath of fresh air for me. Not only that but this book helped push me towards getting out of my book slump. The storyline, characters, world building, and just everything about this book was phenomenal. And that is a word that I don't use loosely. I loved the idea that the main character is in a notorious gang that wields magic and does heinous crimes. I have stuck to books that are main characters who have magic and fall in love with the enemy. I am so glad that I stepped out to explore more books that don't revolve around that. Now for characters. I gotta say I think my favorite character has got to be Avery. It was just some of the things that he did and said that genuinely made me laugh out loud. I think it would be really cool to get a book in his perspective. I really liked Fitch and love the concept of him being a marionette (due to the powers he has.) I know he's the main character and main characters are supposed to evolve and all that, which is happening to him but I wish there was more scenes of him doing "work" for the gang. Other than that I loved everything! Therefore I will be giving this book 5 stars!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 6, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I didn't know what to expect when I picked up this book, and I'm so thankful for that because it was such a topsy-turvy amazing ride! Quinn Cameron does an amazing job of bringing these characters to life. The whole time I was at the edge of my seat wondering what would happen to our poor underdog (and frankly underappreciated) Fitch Farrow ❤️. As of right now I'm still unsure who the main love interest is, although I have some hopes 😈. It was honestly a great start to a new series and I can't wait to dive into the rest of the series to find out what else is in store for our boys.
I don't want to give too much away, but if you're looking for morally grey (or downright dark) characters, with a tragic backstory, an ego the size of King Kong and some well hidden hurts then look no further! The book honestly flew by in a blink of an eye because I was so invested in Fitch and his story. It's not often I become so engrossed in a book that doesn't have any spice 🔥 but the plot had me hooked enough that I barely noticed although since it's a slow burn I'm hopeful for the future 😈🥵. Really glad I gave this book and this author a shot, and I'm sure you won't be disappointed either 🥰
I didn't know what to expect when I picked up this book, and I'm so thankful for that because it was such a topsy-turvy amazing ride! Quinn Cameron does an amazing job of bringing these characters to life. The whole time I was at the edge of my seat wondering what would happen to our poor underdog (and frankly underappreciated) Fitch Farrow ❤️. As of right now I'm still unsure who the main love interest is, although I have some hopes 😈. It was honestly a great start to a new series and I can't wait to dive into the rest of the series to find out what else is in store for our boys.
I don't want to give too much away, but if you're looking for morally grey (or downright dark) characters, with a tragic backstory, an ego the size of King Kong and some well hidden hurts then look no further! The book honestly flew by in a blink of an eye because I was so invested in Fitch and his story. It's not often I become so engrossed in a book that doesn't have any spice 🔥 but the plot had me hooked enough that I barely noticed although since it's a slow burn I'm hopeful for the future 😈🥵. Really glad I gave this book and this author a shot, and I'm sure you won't be disappointed either 🥰
April 21, 2024
Marionette takes the stage with telekinesis powers like you haven't seen before.
Fitch never asked for this life but he is good at it, well except he doesn't fly under the radar the way the Bloody Hex would prefer.
Fitch stays because it's the only way to try and keep his brother safe. Suddenly him keeping his brother safe lands the most notorious killer behind bars. The world screams for his death while an old friend tries to make him an offer he will accept.
Fitch is forced to decide who to trust and how he can ensure the continued safety of his brother. Caught between the capital and the gang he must make some tough decisions and hope that those are the right choices.
I loved this book right from the beginning. Fitch is a fantastically snarky character who marches to the beat of his own drum whenever possible. He follows directions but not well. I am loving all the different types of witches and abilities that are new and different. Some of them being more useful and others more a lovely party trick. I can't wait to see what is next.
Fitch never asked for this life but he is good at it, well except he doesn't fly under the radar the way the Bloody Hex would prefer.
Fitch stays because it's the only way to try and keep his brother safe. Suddenly him keeping his brother safe lands the most notorious killer behind bars. The world screams for his death while an old friend tries to make him an offer he will accept.
Fitch is forced to decide who to trust and how he can ensure the continued safety of his brother. Caught between the capital and the gang he must make some tough decisions and hope that those are the right choices.
I loved this book right from the beginning. Fitch is a fantastically snarky character who marches to the beat of his own drum whenever possible. He follows directions but not well. I am loving all the different types of witches and abilities that are new and different. Some of them being more useful and others more a lovely party trick. I can't wait to see what is next.
March 31, 2024
I came for the "slow burn MM romance", I stayed for the plot!
Fitch is a killer, but everyone wants him dead.
I rarely read urban fantasy but I should if they are all like this??
I loved the plot, the magical twists, but most of all I loved Fitch!
The book is all in his POV, so the narration is snarky, sarcastic as he is. It gave me a bit of Sin City vibe, with a side of Orange is the new black. The cast of characters around Fitch are all intriguing and charismatic, and I love one in particular who sincerely cares about Fitch and seems like a big cinnamon roll... Fitch's love interest is not revealed yet, it's going to be very slow burn in the four books, but I really really hope that it's going to be with him!*
And the end is so twisted OMG! I'm really excited about the next books.
*
Fitch is a killer, but everyone wants him dead.
I rarely read urban fantasy but I should if they are all like this??
I loved the plot, the magical twists, but most of all I loved Fitch!
The book is all in his POV, so the narration is snarky, sarcastic as he is. It gave me a bit of Sin City vibe, with a side of Orange is the new black. The cast of characters around Fitch are all intriguing and charismatic, and I love one in particular who sincerely cares about Fitch and seems like a big cinnamon roll... Fitch's love interest is not revealed yet, it's going to be very slow burn in the four books, but I really really hope that it's going to be with him!*
And the end is so twisted OMG! I'm really excited about the next books.
*
April 2, 2024
Received as an ARC in return for my honest review.
💚 Anti hero
💚 Dystopian
💚 Bisexual MMC
💚 Angst
💚 Morally complicated
💚 Walking red flag 🚩
💚 Urban fantasy
So this was my introduction to Quinn’s writing and it did not disappoint! This is book 1 in the new Marionette series where we are introduced to Fitch and his delightfully morally “complicated” ways. The fact Fitch is sarcastic as he is speaks to my very soul, I felt like he was the male version of me, minus all the murder and such obviously.
This was different from anything I usually read but kept me well and truly gripped from the very first page, I flew through it in a matter of a few hours. I can’t wait to read book 2 and get absorbed back into this world!
💚 Anti hero
💚 Dystopian
💚 Bisexual MMC
💚 Angst
💚 Morally complicated
💚 Walking red flag 🚩
💚 Urban fantasy
So this was my introduction to Quinn’s writing and it did not disappoint! This is book 1 in the new Marionette series where we are introduced to Fitch and his delightfully morally “complicated” ways. The fact Fitch is sarcastic as he is speaks to my very soul, I felt like he was the male version of me, minus all the murder and such obviously.
This was different from anything I usually read but kept me well and truly gripped from the very first page, I flew through it in a matter of a few hours. I can’t wait to read book 2 and get absorbed back into this world!
April 5, 2024
Not my usual main type of stories I am in to, but it intrigued me none the less. Took me a while to get into it but I eventually warmed up to it. Soon as I got to know more of our puppet man and his story, I eventually started to like him.
I loved the powers they all have and some of the fighting scenes were pretty cool. And I liked our puppet man fighting to protect his brother and standing up to the boss man when ever he could.
It has a deep twisted story of loss and control. Sacrifice and protection as well as a sense of belonging. It was definetly an interesting read that was worth an new adventure for me.
Something worth trying if you into gangs and powers. Cops and monster villians.
I loved the powers they all have and some of the fighting scenes were pretty cool. And I liked our puppet man fighting to protect his brother and standing up to the boss man when ever he could.
It has a deep twisted story of loss and control. Sacrifice and protection as well as a sense of belonging. It was definetly an interesting read that was worth an new adventure for me.
Something worth trying if you into gangs and powers. Cops and monster villians.
April 1, 2024
I absolutely loved this book and part of what attracted me to this series is the rapid release! So I'm not going to be waiting years for the next book! This book is all about Fitch who is absolutely funny, snarky and 💯 sarcastic! I adore that! He is trying to protect his human brother but as a "witch" he has his own problems. The other characters you meet throughout all have their own distinct personalities and maybe possible a love interest? Of course there's a bad guy... if you want an urban fantasy, slow slow burn, modern day retelling with magic this is it! There's a cliff hanger and I'm impatiently awaiting book 2!
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