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Preternatural Affairs #4
Shadow Burns
When more than a dozen people die at a retirement home, the official story is carbon monoxide poisoning. Cèsar Hawke is convinced the reason is less mundane and more infernal. But that’s his job. As an agent working for the Office of Preternatural Affairs, he’s always looking for supernatural answers to deadly questions.
Isobel Stonecrow agrees to help him find the truth. With her powers of necrocognition, she can speak to the dead and get the real story.
But when they return to the crime scene, they find a lot more than cadavers. They find a nightmare that they can’t escape—a nightmare from Isobel’s past, which even she can’t completely remember thanks to the contract that signed away her soul.
Cèsar will have to disinter Isobel’s secrets to save her. He’ll learn who Isobel used to be, what she’s done, and the price she paid…no matter how deadly the knowledge might be.
Isobel Stonecrow agrees to help him find the truth. With her powers of necrocognition, she can speak to the dead and get the real story.
But when they return to the crime scene, they find a lot more than cadavers. They find a nightmare that they can’t escape—a nightmare from Isobel’s past, which even she can’t completely remember thanks to the contract that signed away her soul.
Cèsar will have to disinter Isobel’s secrets to save her. He’ll learn who Isobel used to be, what she’s done, and the price she paid…no matter how deadly the knowledge might be.
205 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2014
55 people are currently reading
494 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Reine
114 books2,004 followersHi everyone! My name is Sara, and I write urban fantasy and paranormal novels as SM Reine. I collect swords, cat hair, and typewriters (which I do use for writing!). It's a good day when those three things have nothing to do with each other.
If you would like to know the instant my next book is available, you should enlist in my Army of Evil! We have a wicked cool secret handshake, but you'll have to sign up to learn it. ;) Check it out -- http://smarturl.it/armyofevil
If you would like to know the instant my next book is available, you should enlist in my Army of Evil! We have a wicked cool secret handshake, but you'll have to sign up to learn it. ;) Check it out -- http://smarturl.it/armyofevil
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
December 28, 2019
Cèsar Hawke, I love you. I never thought I’d love a male UF lead as much as a female one but Cèsar has now officially made it to my (until now) female-only list of favourite kick-butt characters (think Kate Daniels, Elise Kavanagh, Merit, etc…). Ladies, please say hello to your new friend.
Okay, this guy really is something. He is a witch. Not a particularly good or strong one at that. The best part is that Cèsar is a witch who is allergic to magic. Yes, you got that right. And he can’t stand the sight of blood (much less that of a corpse). Which can be kind of a hindrance, since said corpses keep piling up everywhere he goes. Oh and the blood too. There is LOTS of blood. Which doesn’t help. At all. Poor César, his life really sucks sometimes. He has so many flaws, he is downright irresistible. What I love most about him? Definitely his inner dialogue. He is just plain hilarious. Self-deprecating, sarcastic, snarky… the works! I could try and quote some of my favourite lines here but I’d probably end up quoting the whole book so I’ll try and refrain from it.
The rest of the characters in this series are just plain fantastic. I didn’t like Suze very much at first but she has really grown on me and I just love her now. I love the way she gives hell to everyone, especially to Cèsar (and the way he keeps checking out her “assets” is just hilarious). Still, their relationship has evolved quite a bit and they can get quite comfy sometimes (humm, interesting isn’t it?). Interestingly enough I was more partial to Isobel than to Suze until I read this instalment. But now? I’m definitely rooting for Suze. She kicks some serious butt and can be snarky as hell, what’s not to love?
Now Isobel. OH WOW Isobel. I can’t get into this here because it would reveal too much about the plot but… seriously??!! Some pretty amazing developments right there! Poor Cèsar, he could really do with less drama in his life! Anyway, I’m not really sure how I feel about Izzy after reading this instalment. I used to really like her and I know Cèsar has got it really bad for her but after all that happens in Shadow Burns, I’m not so sure anymore. Well, the next instalment in this series will be all about her so that should definitely be interesting.
Oh and Fritzy, I love my Fritzy! The billionaire ninja of Beverly Hills! He is full of surprises (Yelena?!) and can be a huge pain but I love him all the same. I love the way he interacts with Cèsar and they have some very cool scenes together (that training session at the very beginning of the book is just plain hilarious). About Fritz and Cèsar: I’m glad I read Reine’s freakingly amazing Descent series before this one because the whole kopis/aspis binding aspect of their relationship isn’t explained all that well here. Strange coming from Reine.
Anyway, great characterization all around here, Reine has really outdone herself.
Now about the book itself. This is without a doubt the best instalment in the series so far. Things get beyond screwed up. I can’t remember the last time a book surprised me so much. The amount of twists, turns and revelations is just plain staggering. That final revelation? I felt like I’d been sucker-punched. Heart-beating, legs shaking, the works! Talk about an exhausting read, I’m definitely going to need some time to recover from this roller-coaster ride! Reine really is something. She shows no mercy towards her poor readers and never spares their nerves! Oh and I just love the gore, the blood and the violence. Very cool.
Reine usually nails it every time but here she has excelled herself. Fantastic characters, lots of action, tons of humour, great plot, HUGE REVELATIONS… Shadow Burns has is all. Talk about an amazing read!
Thankfully enough Reine is a really fast writer and Deadly Wrong is scheduled for release on December 23, 2014. Only three months left before we find out more about Isobel, can’t wait!!
· Book 1: Witch Hunt ★★★★
· Book 2: Silver Bullet ★★★
· Book 3: Hotter than Helltown ★★★★
· Book 5: Deadly Wrong ★★★★
· Book 6: Ashes and Arsenic ★★★★
· Book 7: Once Darkness Falls ★★★★★
· Book 8: Bitter Thirst ★★
Okay, this guy really is something. He is a witch. Not a particularly good or strong one at that. The best part is that Cèsar is a witch who is allergic to magic. Yes, you got that right. And he can’t stand the sight of blood (much less that of a corpse). Which can be kind of a hindrance, since said corpses keep piling up everywhere he goes. Oh and the blood too. There is LOTS of blood. Which doesn’t help. At all. Poor César, his life really sucks sometimes. He has so many flaws, he is downright irresistible. What I love most about him? Definitely his inner dialogue. He is just plain hilarious. Self-deprecating, sarcastic, snarky… the works! I could try and quote some of my favourite lines here but I’d probably end up quoting the whole book so I’ll try and refrain from it.
The rest of the characters in this series are just plain fantastic. I didn’t like Suze very much at first but she has really grown on me and I just love her now. I love the way she gives hell to everyone, especially to Cèsar (and the way he keeps checking out her “assets” is just hilarious). Still, their relationship has evolved quite a bit and they can get quite comfy sometimes (humm, interesting isn’t it?). Interestingly enough I was more partial to Isobel than to Suze until I read this instalment. But now? I’m definitely rooting for Suze. She kicks some serious butt and can be snarky as hell, what’s not to love?
Now Isobel. OH WOW Isobel. I can’t get into this here because it would reveal too much about the plot but… seriously??!! Some pretty amazing developments right there! Poor Cèsar, he could really do with less drama in his life! Anyway, I’m not really sure how I feel about Izzy after reading this instalment. I used to really like her and I know Cèsar has got it really bad for her but after all that happens in Shadow Burns, I’m not so sure anymore. Well, the next instalment in this series will be all about her so that should definitely be interesting.
Oh and Fritzy, I love my Fritzy! The billionaire ninja of Beverly Hills! He is full of surprises (Yelena?!) and can be a huge pain but I love him all the same. I love the way he interacts with Cèsar and they have some very cool scenes together (that training session at the very beginning of the book is just plain hilarious). About Fritz and Cèsar: I’m glad I read Reine’s freakingly amazing Descent series before this one because the whole kopis/aspis binding aspect of their relationship isn’t explained all that well here. Strange coming from Reine.
Anyway, great characterization all around here, Reine has really outdone herself.
Now about the book itself. This is without a doubt the best instalment in the series so far. Things get beyond screwed up. I can’t remember the last time a book surprised me so much. The amount of twists, turns and revelations is just plain staggering. That final revelation? I felt like I’d been sucker-punched. Heart-beating, legs shaking, the works! Talk about an exhausting read, I’m definitely going to need some time to recover from this roller-coaster ride! Reine really is something. She shows no mercy towards her poor readers and never spares their nerves! Oh and I just love the gore, the blood and the violence. Very cool.
Reine usually nails it every time but here she has excelled herself. Fantastic characters, lots of action, tons of humour, great plot, HUGE REVELATIONS… Shadow Burns has is all. Talk about an amazing read!
Thankfully enough Reine is a really fast writer and Deadly Wrong is scheduled for release on December 23, 2014. Only three months left before we find out more about Isobel, can’t wait!!
· Book 1: Witch Hunt ★★★★
· Book 2: Silver Bullet ★★★
· Book 3: Hotter than Helltown ★★★★
· Book 5: Deadly Wrong ★★★★
· Book 6: Ashes and Arsenic ★★★★
· Book 7: Once Darkness Falls ★★★★★
· Book 8: Bitter Thirst ★★
September 22, 2014
Cèsar might not be the strongest witch working for OPA, but he certainly has a flair for getting out of sticky situations. And bloody situations. And situations that would just downright drop other witches. So, you know, way to go Cèsar!
Sure, you have to tangle with some seriously nasty supernatural baddies, but you crawl out of the wreckage you end up in with STYLE!
Not going to lie, this book messes with Cèsar's life in a big way. He might not be comfortable with everything he has to do as an agent of OPA, but he has a place and a routine (as crazy as it might be at times) and he makes it work. The secrets he unearths here could have repercussions down the line for both him and those around him. And when I say "could have" I kinda mean they mostly likely will. Because this world is messy and screwed up and things rarely go as planned.
Also, THOSE SECRETS!
As always, S.M. Reine delivers a fast-paced story with plenty of action. And entrails. These books just wouldn't be the same without those entrails. That's right, blood, guts, and demons abound. I don't know if Cèsar appreciates it, but I sure do!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Sure, you have to tangle with some seriously nasty supernatural baddies, but you crawl out of the wreckage you end up in with STYLE!
Not going to lie, this book messes with Cèsar's life in a big way. He might not be comfortable with everything he has to do as an agent of OPA, but he has a place and a routine (as crazy as it might be at times) and he makes it work. The secrets he unearths here could have repercussions down the line for both him and those around him. And when I say "could have" I kinda mean they mostly likely will. Because this world is messy and screwed up and things rarely go as planned.
Also, THOSE SECRETS!
As always, S.M. Reine delivers a fast-paced story with plenty of action. And entrails. These books just wouldn't be the same without those entrails. That's right, blood, guts, and demons abound. I don't know if Cèsar appreciates it, but I sure do!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
April 13, 2017
3.5* poor Fritz. not cool
October 28, 2014
Eh...
Too big for its britches near the end. Still a very engrossing story with a wild set of characters...but...
The next book in the series doesn't interest me at all. I don't give an ovenbaked terd about Hope Jimenez. At all. Moar Hawke and Suzy plz.
Too big for its britches near the end. Still a very engrossing story with a wild set of characters...but...
The next book in the series doesn't interest me at all. I don't give an ovenbaked terd about Hope Jimenez. At all. Moar Hawke and Suzy plz.
December 3, 2020
(Read in epub from Kobo, because it is available elsewhere. Really!)
Oh, dear: the series is getting icky. More blood & literal guts than I'm fond of; and Cesar is starting to become irritating with the sexism. Dear, I don't really need to hear every single time how you weeeally don't like hurting the womens; evil female characters need to be eliminated just as much as evil male characters do. You'd think he'd be over that by now. And if it's a choice between picking Isobel up off the ground & stopping the Big Bad, you done made the wrong one.
While it's nice that Cesar is interested in Isobel, there's something irritating about the relationship: perhaps the way he seems compelled to go overboard commenting on her physicality every time he looks at her, or the way his reaction to her so often seems more chivalry than love. I'm not sure. It all seems a little more performative than affectionate; perhaps this is something that will be addressed in a later book; perhaps it's just some off writing. But the two don't come off as that romantic. And Isobel's refusal to discuss her past seems here more because she's being stubborn and obstructive than what it really is. (We find out in the next book.)
Some good stuff, though: the creep-outs when Cesar goes to the memorial service; the interdimensionality stuff. Not as much humor as earlier, but that's to be expected, given what we're about to learn about Isobel.
Oh, dear: the series is getting icky. More blood & literal guts than I'm fond of; and Cesar is starting to become irritating with the sexism. Dear, I don't really need to hear every single time how you weeeally don't like hurting the womens; evil female characters need to be eliminated just as much as evil male characters do. You'd think he'd be over that by now. And if it's a choice between picking Isobel up off the ground & stopping the Big Bad, you done made the wrong one.
While it's nice that Cesar is interested in Isobel, there's something irritating about the relationship: perhaps the way he seems compelled to go overboard commenting on her physicality every time he looks at her, or the way his reaction to her so often seems more chivalry than love. I'm not sure. It all seems a little more performative than affectionate; perhaps this is something that will be addressed in a later book; perhaps it's just some off writing. But the two don't come off as that romantic. And Isobel's refusal to discuss her past seems here more because she's being stubborn and obstructive than what it really is. (We find out in the next book.)
Some good stuff, though: the creep-outs when Cesar goes to the memorial service; the interdimensionality stuff. Not as much humor as earlier, but that's to be expected, given what we're about to learn about Isobel.
Read
July 25, 2025Deel vier in de capriolen van Cèsar Hawke, agent bij de Office of Preternatural Affairs (OPA) en meer van het amusante, vederlichte zelfde.
Hawke krijgt de opdracht een haunting te gaan onderzoeken in een rusthuis in een oase te midden van de woestijn. Op zich lijkt dat een eenvoudige opdracht, want demonen, engelen, zombies, nachtmerries, succubi, jazeker, maar geesten? Nope, die bestaan niet.
Maar wanneer een paar dagen later twaalf mensen vermoord worden teruggevonden en de dader degene was die de spoken gemeld had en nu zelfmoord gepleegd heeft, lijkt er meer aan de hand, ondanks het feit dat de zaak snel wordt afgesloten.
Hawke gaat dan ook met Isobel, een necrocognitief die met doden kan spreken, naar de herdenking. En dan loopt het mis. Grondig mis. Want spoken bestaan niet, demonen wel. En als dan ook nog blijkt dat Isobel er mee te maken heeft, dat ze misschien niet helemaal levend is, en dat dat komt door een contract dat ook haar geheugen heeft gewist, dan kan Hawke wel niet anders dan op onderzoek uit te gaan, al was het maar om het eigen vege lijf en dat van Isobel te redden.
Duidelijk meer van het amusante zelfde, zoals ik al zei: geen hoogstaande lectuur, wel een snelle hap tussendoor, fastfood for the mind. Precies wat ik momenteel nodig heb, en goed in zijn genre.
Hawke krijgt de opdracht een haunting te gaan onderzoeken in een rusthuis in een oase te midden van de woestijn. Op zich lijkt dat een eenvoudige opdracht, want demonen, engelen, zombies, nachtmerries, succubi, jazeker, maar geesten? Nope, die bestaan niet.
Maar wanneer een paar dagen later twaalf mensen vermoord worden teruggevonden en de dader degene was die de spoken gemeld had en nu zelfmoord gepleegd heeft, lijkt er meer aan de hand, ondanks het feit dat de zaak snel wordt afgesloten.
Hawke gaat dan ook met Isobel, een necrocognitief die met doden kan spreken, naar de herdenking. En dan loopt het mis. Grondig mis. Want spoken bestaan niet, demonen wel. En als dan ook nog blijkt dat Isobel er mee te maken heeft, dat ze misschien niet helemaal levend is, en dat dat komt door een contract dat ook haar geheugen heeft gewist, dan kan Hawke wel niet anders dan op onderzoek uit te gaan, al was het maar om het eigen vege lijf en dat van Isobel te redden.
Duidelijk meer van het amusante zelfde, zoals ik al zei: geen hoogstaande lectuur, wel een snelle hap tussendoor, fastfood for the mind. Precies wat ik momenteel nodig heb, en goed in zijn genre.
July 3, 2025
This was fucking insane the whole house aspect was highkey creepy and so fun having a bit more of a horror reality bending book in this series plus Isobel’s lore didn’t feel forced and was genuinely interesting
May 24, 2017
Good fun 4/5
January 12, 2018
Woah! Good story. Loved the way they kept being trapped. Very creepy. Enjoyable book.
April 11, 2018
Brilliant and funny
Loved this tongue in cheek venture into horror, witchiness, and the supernatural. The characters were funny and believable. I smiled all the way through it.
Loved this tongue in cheek venture into horror, witchiness, and the supernatural. The characters were funny and believable. I smiled all the way through it.
February 7, 2021
These are like junk food, I know they’re not good for me... but I just can’t stop!
March 25, 2017
I mildly liked this...not opposed to keep buying this series, though considering I don't know when I'll get another job, might have to wait till next christmas before I can buy more books, including the next few in this series.
September 27, 2014
I received Shadow Burns in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Just in case you haven’t been paying attention, if it’s a book written by S.M. Reine it is automatically added to my TBR list. I anxiously await each new release and fill in the short lapses in between (she writes really, really fast) with books from her back list. She hasn’t introduced me to one of her characters that I haven’t liked… at least the ones that I’m supposed to like and some of them were ones that I didn’t like to begin with… well, you get the picture. The point of this little intro is that if I had to pick a favorite character of the many she has written, Cèsar would be at the top of that list. I’ve loved him since Witch Hunt, the very first book in this series. His ‘voice’ is so different than any of Reine’s other characters. I love his wit and his sarcasm. How can you not be entertained by inner dialogue like this?
Yeah, I kinda love Cèsar, but there’s a lot more to love in the Preternatural Affairs series than just one character. He’s surrounded by smart, witty, secretive and mysterious characters. Fritz is full of surprises, Suzi is brutally honest and Isobel… well we learned a lot about her in Shadow Burns too.
There were so many twists, turns and revelations in this one that I can’t really say a whole lot. Just when I thought I had things figured out, it turns out I really didn’t. Just when I thought I certain of a character’s loyalty, I was disappointed in them. Then, chapters later, I felt like I had to forgive them for my lack of trust. I love that about this author. She pulls no punches, doesn’t sugar coat a thing and isn’t afraid to pull the rug out from underneath anyone. She’s got the ‘evil author’ thing down to a science.
Once again, if you haven’t picked up at least one book by this author, do it now. There are several books in her early series that are FREE so you’ve got nothing to lose and a lot to gain. You don’t have to just take my word for it though. Below you can find a couple of bloggers/reviewers who also give S.M. Reine a high recommendation. Enjoy!
Witch Hunt Review by Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Six Moon Summer Review by Tina Ryan on GoodReads
Death’s Hand Review by @ A Book Vacation
Moon Summer Review by Sarah-Fae Graham on GoodReads
Just in case you haven’t been paying attention, if it’s a book written by S.M. Reine it is automatically added to my TBR list. I anxiously await each new release and fill in the short lapses in between (she writes really, really fast) with books from her back list. She hasn’t introduced me to one of her characters that I haven’t liked… at least the ones that I’m supposed to like and some of them were ones that I didn’t like to begin with… well, you get the picture. The point of this little intro is that if I had to pick a favorite character of the many she has written, Cèsar would be at the top of that list. I’ve loved him since Witch Hunt, the very first book in this series. His ‘voice’ is so different than any of Reine’s other characters. I love his wit and his sarcasm. How can you not be entertained by inner dialogue like this?
Pops used to take my siblings and me to a corn maze every Halloween. The biggest damn corn maze that you can imagine. It had been so labyrinthine that the Minotaur would have gotten lost in it. Pops thought it was funny to drop us in there and let us try to figure it out on our own, while he drank with the farm’s owner. It pissed me off at the time, but now I understood it was good parenting. What else do you do with three unruly kids on a Halloween sugar high? Throw ‘em in a maze and go drink hard cider until they’re exhausted.
Yeah, I kinda love Cèsar, but there’s a lot more to love in the Preternatural Affairs series than just one character. He’s surrounded by smart, witty, secretive and mysterious characters. Fritz is full of surprises, Suzi is brutally honest and Isobel… well we learned a lot about her in Shadow Burns too.
There were so many twists, turns and revelations in this one that I can’t really say a whole lot. Just when I thought I had things figured out, it turns out I really didn’t. Just when I thought I certain of a character’s loyalty, I was disappointed in them. Then, chapters later, I felt like I had to forgive them for my lack of trust. I love that about this author. She pulls no punches, doesn’t sugar coat a thing and isn’t afraid to pull the rug out from underneath anyone. She’s got the ‘evil author’ thing down to a science.
Once again, if you haven’t picked up at least one book by this author, do it now. There are several books in her early series that are FREE so you’ve got nothing to lose and a lot to gain. You don’t have to just take my word for it though. Below you can find a couple of bloggers/reviewers who also give S.M. Reine a high recommendation. Enjoy!
Witch Hunt Review by Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Six Moon Summer Review by Tina Ryan on GoodReads
Death’s Hand Review by @ A Book Vacation
Moon Summer Review by Sarah-Fae Graham on GoodReads
December 14, 2014
The Preternatural Affairs Series isn't exactly a fave.
I keep having a hard time with lead character Cèsar who can be an obnoxious dick at times, IMO
but then again, he can be downright adorkable, too
And there we are at the point that keeps drawing me back to this series, Cèsars interactions with his partner Suzy Takeuchi are always fun to read, and I keep hoping that he gets over his infatuation with Isobel Stonecrow and ends up with Suzy in the end.
Not that there was anything wrong with Isobel, much. I mean from a man's point of view, what's there to dislike about a women whose whole wardrobe fits in a handbag, with place to spare.
As the series goes "Shadow Burns" ranks somewhat lower for me than the last instalment, the story is well written with twists and turns that keep you glued to the pages - well, at least once I got over the Cèsar being a dick again part - but I felt that the epilogue did drag on a bit. However, the story gives sense to why Cèsar's Boss, Fritz Friederling, had him track down Isobel in the first book and then insisted on keeping her around - turns out there's a lot more back story to them than Fritz let on.
"Shadow Burns" is by the way not exactly self-contained, it leads directly into the next instalment "Wrong Turn", which focuses on and concludes Isobel's back story, therefore the extended epilogue in this one.
Now, here's hoping that Sara will give us an instalment featuring Suzy's back story as well. :)
I keep having a hard time with lead character Cèsar who can be an obnoxious dick at times, IMO
The man had a lot more patience than I did. Or else Yelena had a magical vagina and nipples that tasted like candy canes.
but then again, he can be downright adorkable, too
I ladled most of the sleeping potion into a couple of Thermoses. Enough to keep Suzy going for another week.
The rest of it landed in my favorite mug. The side featured an empty transporter from the original Star Trek series. Once it was filled with hot fluid, the away team beamed in as the graphic heated up. Coolest mug ever, and I was sharing it with Suzy. Lucky lady.
And there we are at the point that keeps drawing me back to this series, Cèsars interactions with his partner Suzy Takeuchi are always fun to read, and I keep hoping that he gets over his infatuation with Isobel Stonecrow and ends up with Suzy in the end.
Not that there was anything wrong with Isobel, much. I mean from a man's point of view, what's there to dislike about a women whose whole wardrobe fits in a handbag, with place to spare.
As the series goes "Shadow Burns" ranks somewhat lower for me than the last instalment, the story is well written with twists and turns that keep you glued to the pages - well, at least once I got over the Cèsar being a dick again part - but I felt that the epilogue did drag on a bit. However, the story gives sense to why Cèsar's Boss, Fritz Friederling, had him track down Isobel in the first book and then insisted on keeping her around - turns out there's a lot more back story to them than Fritz let on.
"Shadow Burns" is by the way not exactly self-contained, it leads directly into the next instalment "Wrong Turn", which focuses on and concludes Isobel's back story, therefore the extended epilogue in this one.
Now, here's hoping that Sara will give us an instalment featuring Suzy's back story as well. :)
December 22, 2016
Really didn't want Izzy and Cesar to get together. Loved the information about Fritz and seeing his character develop more. Can't wait to dive into the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book picks up where the others left off - going around solving paranormal crimes with Cesar and Suzy (and Isobel). Things are really beginning to fall into place with this one.
Cesar is still... Cesar. I'm not really his biggest fan and that may have led to my slow read of this installment. The overall story begins as a simple haunting report but grows into so much more. Really, the big payoff is in details about Isobel. We learn *a lot* about her in this story and will probably get all the answers in the next one. It's a little hard to summarize the story, because of the twisty-turny way it gets from start to finish, but that's about what I expect from the Preternatural Affairs books. Cesar stumbles his way through all of the paranormal elements, usually getting bailed out by Suzy (or Isobel, or Fritz, or all three...).
Fritz is another character that we got to see even more of in this book. It is exciting to have all these clues dangled in front of you and get some solid payoff at the very end. Well done! You've sucked me in for even more mystery and mayhem from the world of Cesar Hawke.
This book picks up where the others left off - going around solving paranormal crimes with Cesar and Suzy (and Isobel). Things are really beginning to fall into place with this one.
Cesar is still... Cesar. I'm not really his biggest fan and that may have led to my slow read of this installment. The overall story begins as a simple haunting report but grows into so much more. Really, the big payoff is in details about Isobel. We learn *a lot* about her in this story and will probably get all the answers in the next one. It's a little hard to summarize the story, because of the twisty-turny way it gets from start to finish, but that's about what I expect from the Preternatural Affairs books. Cesar stumbles his way through all of the paranormal elements, usually getting bailed out by Suzy (or Isobel, or Fritz, or all three...).
Fritz is another character that we got to see even more of in this book. It is exciting to have all these clues dangled in front of you and get some solid payoff at the very end. Well done! You've sucked me in for even more mystery and mayhem from the world of Cesar Hawke.
January 27, 2016
This is book 4 in the Preternatural series. Cesar, Suzy, Isabel & Fritz are back again dealing with more supernatural creatures.
Cesar & Suzy are called to investigate a problem at a retirement village. Things are not quite as normal as things are perceived. Cesar, who is a witch allergic to magic, can sense magic in the building. A few days later all the residents are dead and things get a bit strange when Cesar and Isabel show up at the memorial service. Somehow, Isabel is connected to what is happening at the retirement community but she isn't sharing. Cesar is determined to figure out what she is hiding before she gets killed.
I really loved this insight into Isabel's past. She was always a mysterious necrocognitive that they called on all the time but refused to tell the OPA about. This book gives the reader some insight as to why she doesn't want the OPA to know about her. Of course, there are ghosts, demons and witches to add to all the drama.
Am I going to continue on with this series? Of course! I have already bought books 5 & 6 and hope to get caught up before book 7 is released at the end of the month. If you like books with supernatural beings then will love this series.
Cesar & Suzy are called to investigate a problem at a retirement village. Things are not quite as normal as things are perceived. Cesar, who is a witch allergic to magic, can sense magic in the building. A few days later all the residents are dead and things get a bit strange when Cesar and Isabel show up at the memorial service. Somehow, Isabel is connected to what is happening at the retirement community but she isn't sharing. Cesar is determined to figure out what she is hiding before she gets killed.
I really loved this insight into Isabel's past. She was always a mysterious necrocognitive that they called on all the time but refused to tell the OPA about. This book gives the reader some insight as to why she doesn't want the OPA to know about her. Of course, there are ghosts, demons and witches to add to all the drama.
Am I going to continue on with this series? Of course! I have already bought books 5 & 6 and hope to get caught up before book 7 is released at the end of the month. If you like books with supernatural beings then will love this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2014
I have to admit that this is not my favorite novel or series written by Sara Reine. First of all, I don't like that the main character is a hunky good looking guy. I prefer strong female leads.
But the redeeming characteristics for Cesar, the MC, are his self knowledge. He is able to make fun of his own faults while being perfectly honest about his abilities. AND even better, his sense of humor is tops! I spent many moments laughing out loud. That is a good thing in a book full of blood and gore. Oh, and it doesn't hurt that he is a fan of Firefly and Dead Like Me! I did find those things endearing.
BUT my least favorite thing was the ending that makes me wait until the next book comes out. Grrr! At least it wasn't a cliffhanger! AND the next book is centered on a female lead. Yay! I can't wait!
But the redeeming characteristics for Cesar, the MC, are his self knowledge. He is able to make fun of his own faults while being perfectly honest about his abilities. AND even better, his sense of humor is tops! I spent many moments laughing out loud. That is a good thing in a book full of blood and gore. Oh, and it doesn't hurt that he is a fan of Firefly and Dead Like Me! I did find those things endearing.
BUT my least favorite thing was the ending that makes me wait until the next book comes out. Grrr! At least it wasn't a cliffhanger! AND the next book is centered on a female lead. Yay! I can't wait!
October 27, 2014
I received this book directly from the author. This book is an amazing addition to the series. Caesar always seems to be getting himself into trouble and investigating things he hasn't been assigned to. Caesar has come a long way as a witch since this series began. We learn a lot more about Isobel, who she is now as well as who she has been. As always, there is lots of action well placed throughout the book. SM Reine has done a great job expanding the world she created in her other series. I really like reading the different perspectives. If you read her other series (Descent, The Cain Chronicles, etc.), you find that perspective really does make a difference in how you think about every aspect of the world whether it is a real one or it is make believe. Thank you Sara for another amazing break from reality!
October 9, 2022
Audible edition. This series is told from the perspective of Cesar Hawke, but this installment which starts out at a mass murder at a retirement home, is actually Isobel's story. The story starts out weird and gross. There are surprises, demons, and other dimensions. Some of the surprises are expected, some not so much. Even Suzy, who has been an underdeveloped character, is starting to come into her own. Who is Isobel? Why does she have this odd relationship with Fritz? Fritz reminds me a lot of another character, Thomas Lynley. Lynley is also too cool (not in a bad way), tall, blond, good looking, and rich.
October 6, 2014
Hail Cesar!
I loved it! This book did not disappoint. S.M. Reine does a fantastic job describing the settings and the characters. I can visualize as I read as if I'm watching a movie not reading a book. I enjoy the way the characters interact with each other. Being that this was the 4th book in the series I thought I'd known all I could about the characters, however I was wrong there were several surprises that I can't wait to delve into in the next installment. I love the Suzy-Cesar relationship, I feel there could be a romance in their future.
I loved it! This book did not disappoint. S.M. Reine does a fantastic job describing the settings and the characters. I can visualize as I read as if I'm watching a movie not reading a book. I enjoy the way the characters interact with each other. Being that this was the 4th book in the series I thought I'd known all I could about the characters, however I was wrong there were several surprises that I can't wait to delve into in the next installment. I love the Suzy-Cesar relationship, I feel there could be a romance in their future.
October 5, 2014
I have yet to come across a character that I do not like and Cesar is at the top of my list! There is so much to love about the poor boy with a knack for getting himself out of situations that leave you shaking your head. I simply love his adventures.
The horror story side of the story made this a perfect twist and just in time for the spooky time of year. SM Reine is the only author I have ever read with a knack of the bloody, yucky side of things and still I cannot put the book down.
I look forward to reading more of Cesar’s adventures and what is thrown out at him next!
The horror story side of the story made this a perfect twist and just in time for the spooky time of year. SM Reine is the only author I have ever read with a knack of the bloody, yucky side of things and still I cannot put the book down.
I look forward to reading more of Cesar’s adventures and what is thrown out at him next!
October 14, 2014
Shadow Burns, the latest edition in Prenatural Affair series, is not to be missed! When I was able to get time to sit down and read it I found that I could not put it down. While the series main character is Cesar Hawke, Isobel took center stage. The best part was the big reveal about the relationship between her and Fritz. Not sure where Cesar will end up fitting in.
Summary? Suspense, intrigue, super-natural, easy to follow story line with some sudden twists thrown in - why wouldn't you read it!
Summary? Suspense, intrigue, super-natural, easy to follow story line with some sudden twists thrown in - why wouldn't you read it!
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October 1, 2014Getting better
I really liked this book. It ventured in to the horror genre. But don't let the scare you off. It had all the same elements of her last book of demons and witches and secret government agencies but, with a great amount of horror stuck in there. It was refreshing. This book was very suspenseful and quite full of surprises and I can't wait for the next volume. The plot is becoming increasingly complex and I love it. Bravo!
I really liked this book. It ventured in to the horror genre. But don't let the scare you off. It had all the same elements of her last book of demons and witches and secret government agencies but, with a great amount of horror stuck in there. It was refreshing. This book was very suspenseful and quite full of surprises and I can't wait for the next volume. The plot is becoming increasingly complex and I love it. Bravo!
October 3, 2014
Another awesome Hawke adventure, with some interesting secrets revealed...
I can't get enough of this series and all the preceding ones. I certainly was not prepared for this particular plot - a pleasant surprise! The next story looks even more intriguing and I'm dying to read it!
I'm also looking forward to other secrets to be revealed after reading "Caged Wolf" - another 5-Star MA read! It's hot, steamy and full of twisted thrill rides!
I can't get enough of this series and all the preceding ones. I certainly was not prepared for this particular plot - a pleasant surprise! The next story looks even more intriguing and I'm dying to read it!
I'm also looking forward to other secrets to be revealed after reading "Caged Wolf" - another 5-Star MA read! It's hot, steamy and full of twisted thrill rides!
July 23, 2016
Shadow Burns
I am enjoying preternatural affairs urban fantasy tales. Cezar and his witchy abilities in solving supernatural crime can be humorous. However, I would hold back the gory depiction of some storytelling in the novel and not be eating any thing at the time. You as the reader can feel Cezar apprehension during those moments Helltown. Worthy read S.M. Reine does it with creative storytelling in a urban fantasy.
I am enjoying preternatural affairs urban fantasy tales. Cezar and his witchy abilities in solving supernatural crime can be humorous. However, I would hold back the gory depiction of some storytelling in the novel and not be eating any thing at the time. You as the reader can feel Cezar apprehension during those moments Helltown. Worthy read S.M. Reine does it with creative storytelling in a urban fantasy.
October 25, 2014
4.25-4.5 Stars
The ending...5 Stars. Reine does it again. The latest installment in the series has sarcastically witty characters and a creepy haunted house setting. The storyline is fast-paced and the book is hard to put down once you have started. Fritz gets more "screen time" and there are some huge twists at the end. I am looking forward to the next one. This is fun urban fantasy.
The ending...5 Stars. Reine does it again. The latest installment in the series has sarcastically witty characters and a creepy haunted house setting. The storyline is fast-paced and the book is hard to put down once you have started. Fritz gets more "screen time" and there are some huge twists at the end. I am looking forward to the next one. This is fun urban fantasy.
November 23, 2014
I love these books. SM Reine nailed it again.
We got to learn a lot more about Stonecrow and her past. There was a nice little nod to Elise in there and I'm still hoping that Hawke will meet Elise eventually in the future. Miss her and James so much.
See? This is why Reine is one of my favourite authors. I am missing book characters.
Anyway, big thumbs up. 4* rating and highly recommended
We got to learn a lot more about Stonecrow and her past. There was a nice little nod to Elise in there and I'm still hoping that Hawke will meet Elise eventually in the future. Miss her and James so much.
See? This is why Reine is one of my favourite authors. I am missing book characters.
Anyway, big thumbs up. 4* rating and highly recommended
March 20, 2015
I don't really know the right way to explain my feelings about this book except to say that I was confused about the point or need for it in the overall story arc of the series until the last few pages then it was like Oh now it makes sense...O crap...Must read next book in the series to find out what happens next.
October 1, 2014
I received an Arc of this book on my Kindle from the author. I'm still enjoying the series and this book was neat because we got to learn more about the mysterious isobel and her relationship with fritz. Anxiously awaiting the next one.
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