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The Others #4
Marked in Flesh
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Fantasy (2016)For centuries, the Others and humans have lived side by side in uneasy peace. But when humankind oversteps its bounds, the Others will have to decide how much humanity they’re willing to tolerate—both within themselves and within their community...
Since the Others allied themselves with the cassandra sangue, the fragile yet powerful human blood prophets who were being exploited by their own kind, the delicate dynamic between humans and Others changed. Some, like Simon Wolfgard, wolf shifter and leader of the Lakeside Courtyard, and blood prophet Meg Corbyn, see the new, closer companionship as beneficial—both personally and practically.
But not everyone is convinced. A group of radical humans is seeking to usurp land through a series of violent attacks on the Others. What they don’t realize is that there are older and more dangerous forces than shifters and vampires protecting the land that belongs to the Others—and those forces are willing to do whatever is necessary to protect what is theirs…
Since the Others allied themselves with the cassandra sangue, the fragile yet powerful human blood prophets who were being exploited by their own kind, the delicate dynamic between humans and Others changed. Some, like Simon Wolfgard, wolf shifter and leader of the Lakeside Courtyard, and blood prophet Meg Corbyn, see the new, closer companionship as beneficial—both personally and practically.
But not everyone is convinced. A group of radical humans is seeking to usurp land through a series of violent attacks on the Others. What they don’t realize is that there are older and more dangerous forces than shifters and vampires protecting the land that belongs to the Others—and those forces are willing to do whatever is necessary to protect what is theirs…
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 8, 2016
874 people are currently reading
13729 people want to read
About the author
Anne Bishop
51 books10.5k followersAnne Bishop lives in upstate New York where she enjoys gardening, music, and writing dark, romantic stories. She is the author of over twenty novels, including the award-winning Black Jewels Trilogy. She has written a new series, the Others, which is an urban dark fantasy with a bit of a twist.
Crawford Award (2000)
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Crawford Award (2000)
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,404 reviews
May 26, 2016
"Let's be honest here. We're all reading this to see Simon and Meg do it."
The words that brought me sudden infamy on this review. And I must digress, this series is the bane of my sexual frustration. You're killing me, Bishop. I've never been teased so much in my life. I'm literally begging you for wolf sex at this rate. Fifth book guys, let's hope there is deliverance in this drought.
*ahem*
Anyway, this book was good, albeit I felt a bit repetitive at times with the information. The war is on. Humans vs. Others, and it seems there are some creatures that are to be feared since even the Others themselves fear them. We prepare for shit to hit the fan as humans step way over boundary lines in harassing, mass murdering, stalking and going to so far as to basically sign their own death warrant with a fancy flourish and a thumbs up. With all this bloody tension, we are also given a taste of the cassandra sangue telephone line with it's pros and cons, and just how vengeful the Others can get. *shudder* It ain't pretty, let's just say that.
Meanwhile, ye people with hopeful eyes glancing at Simon and Meg lustily, we get one teaser at the end of the book. Cherish it. It's going to have to hold you over until Etched in Bone is released...2017 people. But hey, Meg's craving for cuts, possible advancing relationship with Simon...could Meg be a possible closet nympho? Just kidding, just kidding. :P
The words that brought me sudden infamy on this review. And I must digress, this series is the bane of my sexual frustration. You're killing me, Bishop. I've never been teased so much in my life. I'm literally begging you for wolf sex at this rate. Fifth book guys, let's hope there is deliverance in this drought.
*ahem*
Anyway, this book was good, albeit I felt a bit repetitive at times with the information. The war is on. Humans vs. Others, and it seems there are some creatures that are to be feared since even the Others themselves fear them. We prepare for shit to hit the fan as humans step way over boundary lines in harassing, mass murdering, stalking and going to so far as to basically sign their own death warrant with a fancy flourish and a thumbs up. With all this bloody tension, we are also given a taste of the cassandra sangue telephone line with it's pros and cons, and just how vengeful the Others can get. *shudder* It ain't pretty, let's just say that.
Meanwhile, ye people with hopeful eyes glancing at Simon and Meg lustily, we get one teaser at the end of the book. Cherish it. It's going to have to hold you over until Etched in Bone is released...2017 people. But hey, Meg's craving for cuts, possible advancing relationship with Simon...could Meg be a possible closet nympho? Just kidding, just kidding. :P
February 23, 2016
I try to never steal lines from other reviewers but this line was too good and too on-the-spot to not repeat "So good I needed a cigarette when I finished". Yeah, it WAS that good.
I hate trying to review books like this when all you want to do is write a page of "AWESOME' "EXCEPTIONAL" well you get the idea. This book, in fact this whole series, is so out there in a league of its own you don't know what to write but here goes.
The Others have put up with the Humans First and Last (HFL) for a good while now and these idiots have no clue what they are going to find at the end of this road but that does NOT mean they are not dangerous.
The Lakeside Courtyard is trying to help the humans that have been friends with them but their resources are limited. We also get a glimpse into some of the other settlements and maybe that is where some of the new stories are going to come from because this really read like a end of series book (which I am pretty certain is NOT the case) and so at the end in addition to weeping that the book has ended you have to wonder "Where does Anne Bishop go from here" but I have been fooled before so I will moan and complain for another year until the next one.
You might notice I am not saying a lot about the story because a lot of things turn into spoilers and so just know that Armageddon is coming.
Bottom Line: When you read books like this, you hate for them to end, you just kind of sit back and for a day or two you don't really want to read anything else, you just want to roll around in the memory of this great story. Anything more I could say about this novel would just be redundant so 5 Stars only because that is all they allow, there ought to be an "elite" category for books like this.
I hate trying to review books like this when all you want to do is write a page of "AWESOME' "EXCEPTIONAL" well you get the idea. This book, in fact this whole series, is so out there in a league of its own you don't know what to write but here goes.
The Others have put up with the Humans First and Last (HFL) for a good while now and these idiots have no clue what they are going to find at the end of this road but that does NOT mean they are not dangerous.
The Lakeside Courtyard is trying to help the humans that have been friends with them but their resources are limited. We also get a glimpse into some of the other settlements and maybe that is where some of the new stories are going to come from because this really read like a end of series book (which I am pretty certain is NOT the case) and so at the end in addition to weeping that the book has ended you have to wonder "Where does Anne Bishop go from here" but I have been fooled before so I will moan and complain for another year until the next one.
You might notice I am not saying a lot about the story because a lot of things turn into spoilers and so just know that Armageddon is coming.
Bottom Line: When you read books like this, you hate for them to end, you just kind of sit back and for a day or two you don't really want to read anything else, you just want to roll around in the memory of this great story. Anything more I could say about this novel would just be redundant so 5 Stars only because that is all they allow, there ought to be an "elite" category for books like this.
March 30, 2016
DEAR ANNE BISHOP
BUT WE STILL LOVE YOU.
BUT WE STILL LOVE YOU.
March 20, 2025
Oink, oink!
For those who follow my reviews, I'm unable to stop myself from comparing this series to candy. As I learned in Salt Sugar Fat: How the Food Giants Hooked Us, food companies spend hundreds of thousands engineering taste to hit that optimal flavor point where taste buds light up without making us feel something is too sugary, salty or rich. It's the reason we can eat handfuls of M&Ms or Doritos, ostensibly with enjoyment, without feeling satiated. Like its predecessors, Marked in Flesh hits my taste bud sweet spot, giving me the feeling that I'm consuming something delicious without ever filling me up. And, much like candy, I have to say the calories are largely empty; as they say in the nutrition world, these are not nutrient-dense calories.
It's hard to keep it all the books and subplots straight, but in short, this is The One Where The Chickens Come Home to Roost. In a barely-veiled allegory of our time, the rampant consumerism and selfish ego of the HumansFirst! movement is causing the world to go out of balance and the Powers to be pissed off. Meg, our foretelling Cassandra, is troubled with images of dead Wolves, but in a move familiar to young adult readers everywhere, decides to Lie About Problems to People Who Care.
Meanwhile, the Intuits (get it? Like intuition as Inuit?) are reaching out to the Others in their own communities and another Cassandra being cared for by the Others is also drawing bloody prophecies. It is apparently a race to be the Slowest To Interpret Prophecy ever, because we all already know HumansFirst! are pissing off the natural powers and they're gonna fuck something up somehow. It doesn't make it any less shocking or tragic when it occurs, which is a tribute to Bishop.
There's a few more viewpoints in this fourth book, which by some accounts is irritating Bishop's fan base. I didn't think it was done any differently than the last book, and I admit is was interesting to see something other than Meg driving around the compound in her BOW. Although, never fear--there is a discussion about that.
When it comes, the Great Apocalypse is fairly underwhelming to the apocalypse reader. Everyone knows the writer is supposed to draw the damage out so that we can vicariously compare our preparations and reactions to that of the heroes. Bishop apparently doesn't; although there are lots of veiled warnings about how terrible it will be, apparently laying in a six month supply of toilet paper (P.S., apparently girls need more than boys do) and buying your romance reads ahead of time is adequate. The devastation is over in a blip, but we aren't sure exactly what happened because communication systems are down. Although the Powers don't understand satellites and cell phones, so maybe they aren't completely down. We're not entirely sure yet. There's also a super-cutsey moment when one of the Elders is Amused by Meg howling (sigh, must we repeat this storyline again?), and a super-stupid moment when Tess is hurt despite being The Reaper That Sucks the Life Out of Everything.
Things I hate: the sexism. Oh, the sexism. There's a lot of "human females do..." followed by amusement/puzzlement on the part of the males. The human men are protectors and leaders; the human women nurturers. Apparently, there are no female Hawks, Bears, Cats or Wolves (all predators), although there are female Crows (because Shiny!). Apparently, females can be Weather because we're all capricious and temperamental. Other things that continue to annoy include this surprising integration of 21st century technology like email into the same world-building where Others need to be taught how to make a cash transaction. Apparently delivery trucks, cell phones and computers will be whittled by Henry out of wood in the future. And, how can I forget--in a nod to Stereotype 101, we have an elderly black woman with a no-nonsense approach brought in to control the human children and clean the office.
Things I love: the environmental theme. Meg's continued sweetness. The idea that the Others are questioning how much human metaphorically, within themselves--as well as practically. The idea that there will be payback for misdeeds. The glacially-moving relationship between Meg and Simon is a rare romance treat and appropriate given their newness to human experience. The idea that humans are not the dominant life forms.
Yep, this is just a literary One Pound Bag of M&Ms; a little embarrassing and a lot of mmmm-good.
Re-read 2025, because I am so on board with the environmental retribution.
For those who follow my reviews, I'm unable to stop myself from comparing this series to candy. As I learned in Salt Sugar Fat: How the Food Giants Hooked Us, food companies spend hundreds of thousands engineering taste to hit that optimal flavor point where taste buds light up without making us feel something is too sugary, salty or rich. It's the reason we can eat handfuls of M&Ms or Doritos, ostensibly with enjoyment, without feeling satiated. Like its predecessors, Marked in Flesh hits my taste bud sweet spot, giving me the feeling that I'm consuming something delicious without ever filling me up. And, much like candy, I have to say the calories are largely empty; as they say in the nutrition world, these are not nutrient-dense calories.
It's hard to keep it all the books and subplots straight, but in short, this is The One Where The Chickens Come Home to Roost. In a barely-veiled allegory of our time, the rampant consumerism and selfish ego of the HumansFirst! movement is causing the world to go out of balance and the Powers to be pissed off. Meg, our foretelling Cassandra, is troubled with images of dead Wolves, but in a move familiar to young adult readers everywhere, decides to Lie About Problems to People Who Care.
Meanwhile, the Intuits (get it? Like intuition as Inuit?) are reaching out to the Others in their own communities and another Cassandra being cared for by the Others is also drawing bloody prophecies. It is apparently a race to be the Slowest To Interpret Prophecy ever, because we all already know HumansFirst! are pissing off the natural powers and they're gonna fuck something up somehow. It doesn't make it any less shocking or tragic when it occurs, which is a tribute to Bishop.
There's a few more viewpoints in this fourth book, which by some accounts is irritating Bishop's fan base. I didn't think it was done any differently than the last book, and I admit is was interesting to see something other than Meg driving around the compound in her BOW. Although, never fear--there is a discussion about that.
When it comes, the Great Apocalypse is fairly underwhelming to the apocalypse reader. Everyone knows the writer is supposed to draw the damage out so that we can vicariously compare our preparations and reactions to that of the heroes. Bishop apparently doesn't; although there are lots of veiled warnings about how terrible it will be, apparently laying in a six month supply of toilet paper (P.S., apparently girls need more than boys do) and buying your romance reads ahead of time is adequate. The devastation is over in a blip, but we aren't sure exactly what happened because communication systems are down. Although the Powers don't understand satellites and cell phones, so maybe they aren't completely down. We're not entirely sure yet. There's also a super-cutsey moment when one of the Elders is Amused by Meg howling (sigh, must we repeat this storyline again?), and a super-stupid moment when Tess is hurt despite being The Reaper That Sucks the Life Out of Everything.
Things I hate: the sexism. Oh, the sexism. There's a lot of "human females do..." followed by amusement/puzzlement on the part of the males. The human men are protectors and leaders; the human women nurturers. Apparently, there are no female Hawks, Bears, Cats or Wolves (all predators), although there are female Crows (because Shiny!). Apparently, females can be Weather because we're all capricious and temperamental. Other things that continue to annoy include this surprising integration of 21st century technology like email into the same world-building where Others need to be taught how to make a cash transaction. Apparently delivery trucks, cell phones and computers will be whittled by Henry out of wood in the future. And, how can I forget--in a nod to Stereotype 101, we have an elderly black woman with a no-nonsense approach brought in to control the human children and clean the office.
Things I love: the environmental theme. Meg's continued sweetness. The idea that the Others are questioning how much human metaphorically, within themselves--as well as practically. The idea that there will be payback for misdeeds. The glacially-moving relationship between Meg and Simon is a rare romance treat and appropriate given their newness to human experience. The idea that humans are not the dominant life forms.
Yep, this is just a literary One Pound Bag of M&Ms; a little embarrassing and a lot of mmmm-good.
Re-read 2025, because I am so on board with the environmental retribution.
February 9, 2017
I'll call it a day with an eskimo kiss.
Yes, I'm that desperate.
Needless to say, I'm buddy-reading this with the one and only Nina!
"This is what it means to be human, it said. This is what humans do."
I know what you mean, Leo. In my dreams, this series is still perfect.
•The reason I didn't like this -or, with a more truthful phrasing, I liked it just mildly- is not the lack of progress in the romance. Write it on your forehead please.
If not for that, then what for? Why only three scant stars after an history of one five-star and two four-star ratings? What did this series do to stoop so low?
•I'll just go straight to the point and get it off my chest: I think that this time around Bishop tried to play too big, with the result that the whole thing just spiraled out of her control. It is kind of inevitable, when not only did she introduce new characters, but she also tried to give them a major role, just as if they were primary characters -which, I want to specify, they were not. Joe Wolfgard, Jackson Wolfgard, Jesse Walker are all worthy characters, but their POVs were just unnecessary, and they felt so dragged on that they ended up being all but uninteresting. I was bored to tears, and it broke my blasted heart.
•As an obvious consequence, Meg, Simon and the whole Lakeside Courtyard feel like guests in their own story, and yet again, this broke my blasted heart.
Besides, I think that in the last pages it was introduced a new element that Bishop will supposedly use to drive Meg's characterization forward, and I'm not sure how I feel about it. It felt so airy-fairy and improvised, as if the author magically pulled it out of the hat, a bit like what happened at the beggining of Vision in Silver (click for my review). I am tired of this device that some authors use to bring about some drama at the expense of the characters' characterization. It's not professional, it's ridiculous, and it really gets on my nerves.
•As another obvious consequence, forget to find any development in the relationships between our main characters here, as well as in the characters themselves. No personal growth for anyone, no development in anything. Yes, romance included. But as I said, it's difficult to be bothered by the lack of romance when you just experienced a lack in any other thing that makes a proper character up.
•It seems almost redundant, at this point, but the plot felt just as static as the characters. Basically, what Bishop does is lining up random facts that should exemplify how the human race pissed the Others off so much that exinction is a serious risk now. I got it. Repeatedly. There was no need for a book this long to make the readers grasp this simple truth.
•The last part of the book, though, is more fast-paced and engaging. And the skinny-dipping scene? Da love. These two people are so sweet and romantic, I can't even. I love, love, love their relationship, and I don't care if it's so slow, because just like this, the way it is, it feels right. Besides, it seems the next book will focus more on the two on them -at least judging by the conclusion of this one. So I am hopeful.
All in all, this book was a huge disappointment for me. I want one of my favorite character-driven series back. Please, Bishop, come back to me. I know you're still there, somewhere. Please, come back to me.
"'No. I’m not hot, and I don’t want to do the Squeaky Dance.'
Simon sighed. This day was full of disappointments."
Yes, I'm that desperate.
Needless to say, I'm buddy-reading this with the one and only Nina!
"This is what it means to be human, it said. This is what humans do."
I know what you mean, Leo. In my dreams, this series is still perfect.
•The reason I didn't like this -or, with a more truthful phrasing, I liked it just mildly- is not the lack of progress in the romance. Write it on your forehead please.
If not for that, then what for? Why only three scant stars after an history of one five-star and two four-star ratings? What did this series do to stoop so low?
•I'll just go straight to the point and get it off my chest: I think that this time around Bishop tried to play too big, with the result that the whole thing just spiraled out of her control. It is kind of inevitable, when not only did she introduce new characters, but she also tried to give them a major role, just as if they were primary characters -which, I want to specify, they were not. Joe Wolfgard, Jackson Wolfgard, Jesse Walker are all worthy characters, but their POVs were just unnecessary, and they felt so dragged on that they ended up being all but uninteresting. I was bored to tears, and it broke my blasted heart.
•As an obvious consequence, Meg, Simon and the whole Lakeside Courtyard feel like guests in their own story, and yet again, this broke my blasted heart.
Besides, I think that in the last pages it was introduced a new element that Bishop will supposedly use to drive Meg's characterization forward, and I'm not sure how I feel about it. It felt so airy-fairy and improvised, as if the author magically pulled it out of the hat, a bit like what happened at the beggining of Vision in Silver (click for my review). I am tired of this device that some authors use to bring about some drama at the expense of the characters' characterization. It's not professional, it's ridiculous, and it really gets on my nerves.
•As another obvious consequence, forget to find any development in the relationships between our main characters here, as well as in the characters themselves. No personal growth for anyone, no development in anything. Yes, romance included. But as I said, it's difficult to be bothered by the lack of romance when you just experienced a lack in any other thing that makes a proper character up.
•It seems almost redundant, at this point, but the plot felt just as static as the characters. Basically, what Bishop does is lining up random facts that should exemplify how the human race pissed the Others off so much that exinction is a serious risk now. I got it. Repeatedly. There was no need for a book this long to make the readers grasp this simple truth.
•The last part of the book, though, is more fast-paced and engaging. And the skinny-dipping scene? Da love. These two people are so sweet and romantic, I can't even. I love, love, love their relationship, and I don't care if it's so slow, because just like this, the way it is, it feels right. Besides, it seems the next book will focus more on the two on them -at least judging by the conclusion of this one. So I am hopeful.
All in all, this book was a huge disappointment for me. I want one of my favorite character-driven series back. Please, Bishop, come back to me. I know you're still there, somewhere. Please, come back to me.
"'No. I’m not hot, and I don’t want to do the Squeaky Dance.'
Simon sighed. This day was full of disappointments."
February 4, 2022
➽ And the moral of this reread is: it is a truth universally acknowledged that one should beware of gaggles of geese girls, especially when they come equipped with tea kettles and broomsticks.
Quite welcome you are.
👋 Until next time and stuff.
[July 2020]
Actual rating: 3.75 stars.
I seem to recollect someone shamelessly lied in their review for the previous installment in this series, and didn’t cut the crap as originally promised. (Most outrageous behaviour that.) Well someone really doesn’t have the time to write a full-length thingie for this one, so mercilessly severed the BS shall really very truly be today.(One can hope, anyway.)
So. Super Extra Quick Facts (SEQF ™) about this book:
① There’s even less action here than in the previous installment (hence my despicably low rating). I didn’t think this was humanly possible, but Anne Bishop made it happen. (I have it on good authority that she sold her soul to the devil in exchange for darkly nonchalant writing powers. Whatever that means.) Less action means the book is even slower paced than all previous instalments in the series put together. A shame stuff actually started happening around the 98.5% mark. Had this NOT been the case, I’m pretty sure Marked in Flesh would have made it to the Guinness Book of World Records as the slowest-paced book in the history of slowest-paced books.
② Puny human quirks are most baffling indeed. I mean, what the fish is the point of clean underclothes that don’t smell? 🤔 And what is it with their discombobulating obsession with toilet paper? 😳 But I guess what I find most mystifying is that lowly mortals don't think that sharing a carcass with your friends is appropriate behavior. It seems they'd rather share information, of all things 🙄🙄. Those monkeys really are no fun, if you ask me.
③ There’s nothing quite like terra indigene humor:
“Do you know what the Sharkgard call human on a ship?”
“No, what?”
“Meat in a can.”
④ The slow-burn romance still is (and hopefully forever shall be) a no-burn romance. Meg and Simon recently entered Super Outré Risqué Territory (SORT™) and started holding hands (I kid you not), and their first kiss is expected to occur around Aprillis 2456 (give or take a century or two).
⑤ Thou shalt not, under any circumstance, mess with the Others. No, thou shalt not. They might slightly retaliate a little if you do.
➽ Nefarious Last Words (NLW™): who ever said I could not cut the crap out of a review is just as full of fish as I am when I say I can. Sorry, what? You’ve no idea what this sentence means, you say? Don’t worry, neither do I.
P.S. Some of mynefariously ill-intended dearest friends keep making darkly ominous comments about the next book in the series. “Hahahahahahaha,” I say to them. For not even scared I am. I mean, come on, I eat puny humans for breakfast and breed murderous crustaceans for a living, do you really think your ridiculously miserable attempts at intimidation will have any effect on my nefarious persona? Nope nope nope and stuff. So. Nice try and stuff.
Please don’t ask.
• Book 1: Written in Red ★★★★
• Book 2: Murder of Crows ★★★★
• Book 3: Vision in Silver ★★★★
· Book 5: Etched in Bone ★★★★
[Pre-review nonsense]
What happened to puny humans? The terra indigene, that's what.
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA. Serves the lowly mortals right and stuff.
➽ Full review to come and stuff.
Quite welcome you are.
👋 Until next time and stuff.
[July 2020]
Actual rating: 3.75 stars.
I seem to recollect someone shamelessly lied in their review for the previous installment in this series, and didn’t cut the crap as originally promised. (Most outrageous behaviour that.) Well someone really doesn’t have the time to write a full-length thingie for this one, so mercilessly severed the BS shall really very truly be today.
So. Super Extra Quick Facts (SEQF ™) about this book:
① There’s even less action here than in the previous installment (hence my despicably low rating). I didn’t think this was humanly possible, but Anne Bishop made it happen. (I have it on good authority that she sold her soul to the devil in exchange for darkly nonchalant writing powers. Whatever that means.) Less action means the book is even slower paced than all previous instalments in the series put together. A shame stuff actually started happening around the 98.5% mark. Had this NOT been the case, I’m pretty sure Marked in Flesh would have made it to the Guinness Book of World Records as the slowest-paced book in the history of slowest-paced books.
② Puny human quirks are most baffling indeed. I mean, what the fish is the point of clean underclothes that don’t smell? 🤔 And what is it with their discombobulating obsession with toilet paper? 😳 But I guess what I find most mystifying is that lowly mortals don't think that sharing a carcass with your friends is appropriate behavior. It seems they'd rather share information, of all things 🙄🙄. Those monkeys really are no fun, if you ask me.
③ There’s nothing quite like terra indigene humor:
“Do you know what the Sharkgard call human on a ship?”
“No, what?”
“Meat in a can.”
④ The slow-burn romance still is (and hopefully forever shall be) a no-burn romance. Meg and Simon recently entered Super Outré Risqué Territory (SORT™) and started holding hands (I kid you not), and their first kiss is expected to occur around Aprillis 2456 (give or take a century or two).
⑤ Thou shalt not, under any circumstance, mess with the Others. No, thou shalt not. They might slightly retaliate a little if you do.
➽ Nefarious Last Words (NLW™): who ever said I could not cut the crap out of a review is just as full of fish as I am when I say I can. Sorry, what? You’ve no idea what this sentence means, you say? Don’t worry, neither do I.
P.S. Some of my
Please don’t ask.
• Book 1: Written in Red ★★★★
• Book 2: Murder of Crows ★★★★
• Book 3: Vision in Silver ★★★★
· Book 5: Etched in Bone ★★★★
[Pre-review nonsense]
What happened to puny humans? The terra indigene, that's what.
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA. Serves the lowly mortals right and stuff.
➽ Full review to come and stuff.
Want to read
August 6, 2015ETA: 06/08/2015
Interesting... Meg is already important figure in this war since she was catalyst that united CS girls and Others. I wonder if HFL will figure her importance and make Others even more mad trying to do something against her...
#################
2 more books!
Vlad leaned against the doorway of HGR's upstairs office. "Could you stop waking up Meg so early in the morning? Some of us would like to sleep a bit longer."
Simon bared his teeth. "I didn't wake her up this morning. She woke me." He turned on the computer. Everyone who lived in the Green Complex was getting an early start this morning—and everyone was so quick to blame him...Rest of excerpt here.
Interesting... Meg is already important figure in this war since she was catalyst that united CS girls and Others. I wonder if HFL will figure her importance and make Others even more mad trying to do something against her...
#################
2 more books!
April 1, 2016
It's time for me to say what everyone else who read this is thinking: What the hell, Anne Bishop? Four books and not even a kiss? You're a sadistic woman!
I mean, come on! I'm all for the slow-build of a romance, but this is going too far! We need to start a petition or something!
Oh, but Meg's so innocent and Simon's a wolf. I don't care! They are totally in love - get to it!
The other problem I had with this book was that there were too many POVs. I want more of what's going on in the Courtyard and less a bunch of other people who are just going to die anyway and break our hearts! Don't make me care about something that you have no intention of letting me keep! That's just wrong. Why don't you just start handing out dying puppies or m&m bags filled with raisins?
The good news is that there is finally some revenge on the HFL. But, I would have liked to see them suffer a little more, or at least get to read more about their demise rather than a later mention that there was mysterious lightning and people died. Give me some details! Bring on some bloodshed!
I mean, come on! I'm all for the slow-build of a romance, but this is going too far! We need to start a petition or something!
Oh, but Meg's so innocent and Simon's a wolf. I don't care! They are totally in love - get to it!
The other problem I had with this book was that there were too many POVs. I want more of what's going on in the Courtyard and less a bunch of other people who are just going to die anyway and break our hearts! Don't make me care about something that you have no intention of letting me keep! That's just wrong. Why don't you just start handing out dying puppies or m&m bags filled with raisins?
The good news is that there is finally some revenge on the HFL. But, I would have liked to see them suffer a little more, or at least get to read more about their demise rather than a later mention that there was mysterious lightning and people died. Give me some details! Bring on some bloodshed!
October 9, 2019
3.5 stars
This one felt (to me) to be the weakest as far as actual plot goes. I mean, You know what's going to happen. YOU KNOW.
Like, there's no suspense of will they/won't they. I'm referring to whether or not the Others are gonna wipe humans off the map - not whether Meg and Simon are finally gonna get busy.
Of course they don't! Sit down!
But once again, this story completely sucked me in, and I gobbled it down in just a few days. I still don't get why this series is so appealing, but it is.
I love these characters. I love this world. I love these books.
Anne Bishop has totally turned my urban fantasy funk around!
This one felt (to me) to be the weakest as far as actual plot goes. I mean, You know what's going to happen. YOU KNOW.
Like, there's no suspense of will they/won't they. I'm referring to whether or not the Others are gonna wipe humans off the map - not whether Meg and Simon are finally gonna get busy.
Of course they don't! Sit down!
But once again, this story completely sucked me in, and I gobbled it down in just a few days. I still don't get why this series is so appealing, but it is.
I love these characters. I love this world. I love these books.
Anne Bishop has totally turned my urban fantasy funk around!
June 25, 2017
I love this series.
Love love love everything about it.
Meg is special and endearing and wonderful. Simon is too, but with sharper teeth and claws.
I don't think I've ever read a book that made me so anxious for what was happening to the characters. There were three distinct parts that actually made my heart pound faster. Especially nearing the end there was just this overwhelming sense of dread building up with each page turned. I don't know how Bishop writes this way or so well and the only complaint I have is that she needs to write more and faster and never stop, ever.
The Elementals and ponies and Elders should have their own series because they're all absolutely fascinating. And maybe a spin-off with Tess and Nyx because that would be AWESOME.
Read this series if you like urban fantasy, whether you're new or old to the genre.
READ IT NOW
... and cry with me while we wait another year for the last book.
T___T
Love love love everything about it.
Meg is special and endearing and wonderful. Simon is too, but with sharper teeth and claws.
I don't think I've ever read a book that made me so anxious for what was happening to the characters. There were three distinct parts that actually made my heart pound faster. Especially nearing the end there was just this overwhelming sense of dread building up with each page turned. I don't know how Bishop writes this way or so well and the only complaint I have is that she needs to write more and faster and never stop, ever.
The Elementals and ponies and Elders should have their own series because they're all absolutely fascinating. And maybe a spin-off with Tess and Nyx because that would be AWESOME.
Read this series if you like urban fantasy, whether you're new or old to the genre.
READ IT NOW
... and cry with me while we wait another year for the last book.
T___T
January 15, 2016
Update January 13, 2015
4.5 claws and teeth stars
![[IMG]](https://images.gr-assets.com/hostedimages/1452732342ra/17734403.gif)
Man that was good! I practically snorted this.
Marked in Flesh is WAYYYY better than the last installment. We get lesser which were seriously getting on my nerves and more of the things that have only been roiling in the surface in the past 3 books.
Full review to come closer to the publication date.
---------------------------------------------
Update January 11, 2016
Whatta surprise, yey ARC. Woot!
---------------------------------------------
Hurry the fuck up 2016!
4.5 claws and teeth stars
Man that was good! I practically snorted this.
Marked in Flesh is WAYYYY better than the last installment. We get lesser which were seriously getting on my nerves and more of the things that have only been roiling in the surface in the past 3 books.
Full review to come closer to the publication date.
---------------------------------------------
Update January 11, 2016
Whatta surprise, yey ARC. Woot!
---------------------------------------------
Hurry the fuck up 2016!
March 9, 2016
Pre March 8, 2016:
I just read the excerpt for "Marked in Flesh" and omg I am like a drug addict dying for my next fix! We should start a support group. "Hello, my name is Marsha and I'm addicted to the series the Others by Anne Bishop." Anyone else?
Post March 8, 2016:
To the fans of the Others series let me warn you now you had better prepare yourself for an emotional roller coaster ride of a read with "Marked in Flesh." There is so much going on in this installment including but not limited to new characters, war between the Humans First and Last movement and the Terra Indigene, death, the revelation and appearance of the Elders and a sense of hope between the Others and the human pack. One minute I was shocked. The next I was appalled, angry, and then saddened by the evil that can be found in the souls of man.
Our story begins with the HFL launching a three part aggressive strike against the Others. As Simon and the residents of Lakeside prepare to survive the battle in which they know will come they will also have to deal with the devastation of the brutal HFL attacks. Simon finds himself constantly asking, "How much human should we keep?" and Meg the trailblazer will find herself on unfamiliar territory as she explores new avenues of prophecy that does not involve cutting.
In the midst of so much turmoil, horror and devastation there is also a sense of hope, solidarity and even relationship exploration between the species. Most importantly, the question regarding the fate of Nicholas Scratch is finally answered.
Needless to say that I gobbled down this read in less than twenty four hours. I was drawn to the drama of the plot and must have experienced every single emotional outburst imaginable. This book seemed a bit final to me but I know the author has said that there will be a fifth installment. I'm just not sure where it go but knowing Ms. Bishop it will inevitably be a ridiculously good read!
I just read the excerpt for "Marked in Flesh" and omg I am like a drug addict dying for my next fix! We should start a support group. "Hello, my name is Marsha and I'm addicted to the series the Others by Anne Bishop." Anyone else?
Post March 8, 2016:
To the fans of the Others series let me warn you now you had better prepare yourself for an emotional roller coaster ride of a read with "Marked in Flesh." There is so much going on in this installment including but not limited to new characters, war between the Humans First and Last movement and the Terra Indigene, death, the revelation and appearance of the Elders and a sense of hope between the Others and the human pack. One minute I was shocked. The next I was appalled, angry, and then saddened by the evil that can be found in the souls of man.
Our story begins with the HFL launching a three part aggressive strike against the Others. As Simon and the residents of Lakeside prepare to survive the battle in which they know will come they will also have to deal with the devastation of the brutal HFL attacks. Simon finds himself constantly asking, "How much human should we keep?" and Meg the trailblazer will find herself on unfamiliar territory as she explores new avenues of prophecy that does not involve cutting.
In the midst of so much turmoil, horror and devastation there is also a sense of hope, solidarity and even relationship exploration between the species. Most importantly, the question regarding the fate of Nicholas Scratch is finally answered.
Needless to say that I gobbled down this read in less than twenty four hours. I was drawn to the drama of the plot and must have experienced every single emotional outburst imaginable. This book seemed a bit final to me but I know the author has said that there will be a fifth installment. I'm just not sure where it go but knowing Ms. Bishop it will inevitably be a ridiculously good read!
October 15, 2019
I don't know what it is about this series that's so engaging! I can't put my finger on it. Yet here I am book 4 and still enjoying the story.
January 14, 2016
This series is intoxicating and I'd say unmissable. Ok how do I begin? Is it paranormal or fantasy, or even both? If the word fantasy makes you think of magic and swordplay with an almost medieval setting well scratch that thought. We have technology eg cars, computers and trains but we also have settlements that live a simpler life and of course there are also the ancients or should that be Elders? Imagine a great force that created life and initially that life was primordial. Now add Others who could shift form or even exist on blood and you begin to see a much wilder setting for this series. Now not content with those forms the great creator ( Namid ) added humans to the landscape and even very special rare ones with the gift/curse of prophecy but there's a price oh yes always a price to pay.
I am so reluctant to give anything away about this incredible instalment. It's been obvious that the Others see a time when humans or clever meat as they consider them will be punished for their greed. There's a group spreading like wild fire and they won't stop until they feel humans are large and in charge. Now readers know that those who truly rule the land ( Others or terra indigene) are angry at the encroachment of humans but the violence is increasing and as this story unfolds there's a feeling of impending doom that looms over it.
Fans will be clamouring for this book as Meg and Simon once again step into the breach. The Others who live at Simons Courtyard have claimed Meg the blood prophet as their own but it's obvious to readers that Simon is very territorial when it comes to Meg wink wink! Simon has always been almost progressive in many ways but never forget he is an animal and the author had me laughing out loud several times here . Incredibly with just a sentence or a phrase Ms Bishop truly showed the difference between the terra indigene and humans. Fancy kissing one? Well be careful what you wish for I'd say! I loved seeing this cast of characters work together as the story unfolded and yes I'm afraid it gets very dark before the dawn. If monsters scare you then this book will have you hiding behind your sofa because I'm afraid to say the teeth and claws of Namid truly have bite!
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
I am so reluctant to give anything away about this incredible instalment. It's been obvious that the Others see a time when humans or clever meat as they consider them will be punished for their greed. There's a group spreading like wild fire and they won't stop until they feel humans are large and in charge. Now readers know that those who truly rule the land ( Others or terra indigene) are angry at the encroachment of humans but the violence is increasing and as this story unfolds there's a feeling of impending doom that looms over it.
Fans will be clamouring for this book as Meg and Simon once again step into the breach. The Others who live at Simons Courtyard have claimed Meg the blood prophet as their own but it's obvious to readers that Simon is very territorial when it comes to Meg wink wink! Simon has always been almost progressive in many ways but never forget he is an animal and the author had me laughing out loud several times here . Incredibly with just a sentence or a phrase Ms Bishop truly showed the difference between the terra indigene and humans. Fancy kissing one? Well be careful what you wish for I'd say! I loved seeing this cast of characters work together as the story unfolded and yes I'm afraid it gets very dark before the dawn. If monsters scare you then this book will have you hiding behind your sofa because I'm afraid to say the teeth and claws of Namid truly have bite!
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
Want to read
March 5, 2015Only two more books left?! What in the world?! Make that 112345678 more books, please! This series can't have just two more books left!! 3
March 6, 2022
Absolutely riveting from start to finish, I just can’t get enough of The Others series.
This is a world where the mythical, paranormal and magical powers rule the world. They’ve co-existed and tolerated the humans time and time again but as history has shown the humans are a greedy lot.
It seems the human’s greed and self-worth have once again gone to their heads. They have slowly and methodically plotted against The Others. The Others haven’t forgotten the past, I guess it comes with such longevity, but it seems history is about to repeat itself.
Will the Others have mercy on human-kind?
Will the relationship between the Cassandra Sangue and the Others persuade them to leave the lesser Terra Indiegene, Others, and non-confrontational human’s alone?
Simon struggles with the adaptations made to assimilate Meg into his life. He is worried for the loss of his animal nature. While Meg battles the blessing/curse of being a blood prophet.
Simon is also walking a knifes edge, trying to decide how best to save the ones he's come to care for.
Dark and brutal is the reckoning. The reckoning the humans have brought it on themselves. Unfortunately, the creatures that are coming are truly those of nightmares and have little distinction for those weaker than themselves.
Anne Bishop weaves a magical tale that sticks with you long after the reading has ended. Simply amazing world building, an absolutely unforgettable cast and an exhilarating plot makes Marked in Flesh a truly remarkable and irresistible read.
I received this ARC copy of Marked In Flesh from Berkley Publishing Group - ROC in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication March 8, 2016.
My Rating: 5 Stars Favorite
Written by: Anne Bishop
Series: A Novel of the Others
Sequence in Series: Book 4
Hardcover: 416 pages
Publisher: Roc
Publication Date: March 8, 2016
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0451474473
ISBN-13: 978-0451474476
Genre: Dark Fantasy
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Marked-Flesh-Ot...
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/marke...
This is a world where the mythical, paranormal and magical powers rule the world. They’ve co-existed and tolerated the humans time and time again but as history has shown the humans are a greedy lot.
It seems the human’s greed and self-worth have once again gone to their heads. They have slowly and methodically plotted against The Others. The Others haven’t forgotten the past, I guess it comes with such longevity, but it seems history is about to repeat itself.
Will the Others have mercy on human-kind?
Will the relationship between the Cassandra Sangue and the Others persuade them to leave the lesser Terra Indiegene, Others, and non-confrontational human’s alone?
Simon struggles with the adaptations made to assimilate Meg into his life. He is worried for the loss of his animal nature. While Meg battles the blessing/curse of being a blood prophet.
Simon is also walking a knifes edge, trying to decide how best to save the ones he's come to care for.
Dark and brutal is the reckoning. The reckoning the humans have brought it on themselves. Unfortunately, the creatures that are coming are truly those of nightmares and have little distinction for those weaker than themselves.
Anne Bishop weaves a magical tale that sticks with you long after the reading has ended. Simply amazing world building, an absolutely unforgettable cast and an exhilarating plot makes Marked in Flesh a truly remarkable and irresistible read.
I received this ARC copy of Marked In Flesh from Berkley Publishing Group - ROC in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication March 8, 2016.
My Rating: 5 Stars Favorite
Written by: Anne Bishop
Series: A Novel of the Others
Sequence in Series: Book 4
Hardcover: 416 pages
Publisher: Roc
Publication Date: March 8, 2016
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0451474473
ISBN-13: 978-0451474476
Genre: Dark Fantasy
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Marked-Flesh-Ot...
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/marke...
October 11, 2023
MARKED IN FLESH is book 4 in the riveting "The Others" series where humans aren't the dominant species on earth and a gifted human named Meg fascinates the wolves, vampires and other paranormal shifters who live in a settlement close to humans. I love that Anne Bishop writes such long books. You can immerse yourself in one of her books for a week or more, enjoying it for hours and hours, getting sucked in deeper each chapter. It killed me with each loss in this one as the "clever meat" committed one awful act after the next against the Terra indigine. And yet, it doesn't seem like there's much hope at this point.
Simon and Meg continue slowly growing closer, with Meg learning to read her tarot cards as a way of predicting the future, rather than cutting her wrists. They're still so far from physical intimacy, and it seems strongly hinted that Meg has experienced sexual violence at the hands of the controller, and so she's still something of a breakable entity. I want so much to see Meg strong and whole.
Simon and Meg continue slowly growing closer, with Meg learning to read her tarot cards as a way of predicting the future, rather than cutting her wrists. They're still so far from physical intimacy, and it seems strongly hinted that Meg has experienced sexual violence at the hands of the controller, and so she's still something of a breakable entity. I want so much to see Meg strong and whole.
March 7, 2016
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads.
MARKED IN FLESH set out to be the defining installment in the entente between humankind and the terra indigene, and being somewhat familiar with Anne Bishop’s predilection for carnage, I knew full well that no cast member was going to come out on the other side unscathed. This book was astonishingly successful in its aim; however due to its very nature the format needed to be altered to incorporate more POVs and less one-on-one time which in turn led to a slight decrease in my overall enjoyment making this my first 4-star review of a THE OTHERS title.
The HFL movement has been poking the bear since the start of this series, and they’ve finally managed to wake Namid’s claws and teeth. They’ve been taking their frustration out on wolves without realizing that there are things in Thasia that are far scarier than what live in the Courtyards. This novel was about the Elders deciding how much human to keep, and the outcome boggled the mind in its ferocity and devastation. The author definitely didn’t hold anything back, I was just hoping for more than a glimpse of the mysterious inhabitants of the wild country.
Meg’s growth since WRITTEN IN RED has been significant, and I liked that in this latest addition she became a do-er instead of merely a spectator. She’s been labeled the trailblazer of the cassandra sangue, and in this volume she explores alternatives to cutting. We also got to look in on how some of the other blood prophets are managing outside of the compounds, namely Hope, who gave Corbyn an idea that doesn’t involve a razor. Now, all they need is a substitution for the euphoria which presents itself in an unexpected yet very enticing way.
As I mentioned, the scope of this story required that it be told from a multitude of angles which was both good and bad. Good because it allowed readers to witness how the various factions reacted to the coming storm, and bad because the character development wasn’t as in depth due to it being limited to only a couple of chapters per individual. I also found that the quirky and sweet moments that make THE OTHERS such a unique experience were toned down to a certain extent, although Bishop’s dry humour was still very prominent which was a welcomed distraction from the bloodshed.
MARKED IN FLESH was an epically haunting tale of survival and resilience.
MARKED IN FLESH set out to be the defining installment in the entente between humankind and the terra indigene, and being somewhat familiar with Anne Bishop’s predilection for carnage, I knew full well that no cast member was going to come out on the other side unscathed. This book was astonishingly successful in its aim; however due to its very nature the format needed to be altered to incorporate more POVs and less one-on-one time which in turn led to a slight decrease in my overall enjoyment making this my first 4-star review of a THE OTHERS title.
The HFL movement has been poking the bear since the start of this series, and they’ve finally managed to wake Namid’s claws and teeth. They’ve been taking their frustration out on wolves without realizing that there are things in Thasia that are far scarier than what live in the Courtyards. This novel was about the Elders deciding how much human to keep, and the outcome boggled the mind in its ferocity and devastation. The author definitely didn’t hold anything back, I was just hoping for more than a glimpse of the mysterious inhabitants of the wild country.
Meg’s growth since WRITTEN IN RED has been significant, and I liked that in this latest addition she became a do-er instead of merely a spectator. She’s been labeled the trailblazer of the cassandra sangue, and in this volume she explores alternatives to cutting. We also got to look in on how some of the other blood prophets are managing outside of the compounds, namely Hope, who gave Corbyn an idea that doesn’t involve a razor. Now, all they need is a substitution for the euphoria which presents itself in an unexpected yet very enticing way.
As I mentioned, the scope of this story required that it be told from a multitude of angles which was both good and bad. Good because it allowed readers to witness how the various factions reacted to the coming storm, and bad because the character development wasn’t as in depth due to it being limited to only a couple of chapters per individual. I also found that the quirky and sweet moments that make THE OTHERS such a unique experience were toned down to a certain extent, although Bishop’s dry humour was still very prominent which was a welcomed distraction from the bloodshed.
MARKED IN FLESH was an epically haunting tale of survival and resilience.
March 15, 2016
Marked in Flesh was another winning installment of The Others series! I can’t get enough of the world and characters, but especially Simon and Meg!
The fate of the humans comes to a head after the horrific events orchestrated by the Humans First and Last Group in the last book. Their actions and stance just made me sick, and really they put the future of the humans in big time danger! The Elders, “Namid’s teeth and claws” have been watching, and I read with bated breath wondering what kind of retaliation they would take. The question “How much human did the terra indigene want to keep?” hangs threateningly in the balance.
“We can’t trust humans anymore.”
“Did we ever trust them?”
“No. But we counted on their desire to survive being stronger than their greed. I don’t think we can count on that anymore.”
Fortunately, for Meg’s friends, the Elders are fascinated with her and the affect her friendship with those in the Courtyard have had on humans and terra indigene relationships. There are more and more being added to the group of humans The Others are allied with, such as the Prairie Gold Intuits, the River Road Community, Ferryman’s Landing, as well as quite a few in the Lakeside Police Department. These people show that they feel every creature, whether human or other, should be treated fairly and with respect and I’m happy they’re banding together.
Once again Meg worries about all her friends and tries to do whatever she can with her abilities to help. It seems like Meg might be able to receive visions without cutting, or release of that pressing need to cut in other *ahem* ways in the future. I’m hoping that’s the case. Of course I read every scene with Simon and Meg over and over, relishing all the minuscule steps they take toward romance! They’re going down that path and I think they’re finally starting to wake up to that fact! Oh, that last scene!!! Love, love, love!
Hope, the young cassandra sangue placed with Jackson and Grace in the Sweetwater settlement is able to have visions and express them through drawing without cutting. Her visions were vital to all around. I adored Hope and was warmed by the relationship she has with Jackson and Grace. The two are very protective of her, almost like parents. She chose Wolfsong as her last name!! That just touched my heart.
Even though this book is very serious, there are a lot of playful, funny moments that made me smile. The swimming hole scene with Merri Lee, Ruth, Theral and Meg doing the “Squeaky Dance” made me laugh, and interactions between Vlad and Simon talking about “kissy books” or “exploding fluffballs” gave me a giggle, and the letter in “The ‘Others Etiquette’ Column” was flipping hilarious!
While Marked in Flesh doesn’t end with a cliffhanger, I eagerly await the continuation of this amazing series! I can’t believe I’ve got to wait a whole year! I’ll be buying the audio version (the narration is amazing!) so I can enjoy this story all over again.
A copy was provided by Penguin/Roc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The fate of the humans comes to a head after the horrific events orchestrated by the Humans First and Last Group in the last book. Their actions and stance just made me sick, and really they put the future of the humans in big time danger! The Elders, “Namid’s teeth and claws” have been watching, and I read with bated breath wondering what kind of retaliation they would take. The question “How much human did the terra indigene want to keep?” hangs threateningly in the balance.
“We can’t trust humans anymore.”
“Did we ever trust them?”
“No. But we counted on their desire to survive being stronger than their greed. I don’t think we can count on that anymore.”
Fortunately, for Meg’s friends, the Elders are fascinated with her and the affect her friendship with those in the Courtyard have had on humans and terra indigene relationships. There are more and more being added to the group of humans The Others are allied with, such as the Prairie Gold Intuits, the River Road Community, Ferryman’s Landing, as well as quite a few in the Lakeside Police Department. These people show that they feel every creature, whether human or other, should be treated fairly and with respect and I’m happy they’re banding together.
Once again Meg worries about all her friends and tries to do whatever she can with her abilities to help. It seems like Meg might be able to receive visions without cutting, or release of that pressing need to cut in other *ahem* ways in the future. I’m hoping that’s the case. Of course I read every scene with Simon and Meg over and over, relishing all the minuscule steps they take toward romance! They’re going down that path and I think they’re finally starting to wake up to that fact! Oh, that last scene!!! Love, love, love!
Hope, the young cassandra sangue placed with Jackson and Grace in the Sweetwater settlement is able to have visions and express them through drawing without cutting. Her visions were vital to all around. I adored Hope and was warmed by the relationship she has with Jackson and Grace. The two are very protective of her, almost like parents. She chose Wolfsong as her last name!! That just touched my heart.
Even though this book is very serious, there are a lot of playful, funny moments that made me smile. The swimming hole scene with Merri Lee, Ruth, Theral and Meg doing the “Squeaky Dance” made me laugh, and interactions between Vlad and Simon talking about “kissy books” or “exploding fluffballs” gave me a giggle, and the letter in “The ‘Others Etiquette’ Column” was flipping hilarious!
While Marked in Flesh doesn’t end with a cliffhanger, I eagerly await the continuation of this amazing series! I can’t believe I’ve got to wait a whole year! I’ll be buying the audio version (the narration is amazing!) so I can enjoy this story all over again.
A copy was provided by Penguin/Roc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 9, 2016
I'm so excited right now I don't know what to say!!!
Yup, this book didn't disappoint! And I absolutely, absolutely loved it! And I want moreeee!
The world becomes so much larger and more interesting in this book! So many new people and events and FEELINGS!
At least some of the loose ends were tied in this book, so I'm so glad I read it. But there are so many possibilities! I mean, ok, some things I can guess, but I'm curious what Anne Bishop will do with this series. It was absolutely great so far, all I hope is that it won't get ruined, like a lot of series do. But hey, guess we'll wait and see. And keep our fingers crossed!
One thing I thought will happen didn't: This book really didn't focus on Meg and Simon's relationship, not as much as I expected it to. But, for me at least, it was so much better! I know a lot of people will be disappointed by this, and all I can say is that I'm glad I'm not one of them.
Still, this book was worth the wait! It's hard to find books that I love as much as this one, and I'm really happy when I do!
Yup, this book didn't disappoint! And I absolutely, absolutely loved it! And I want moreeee!
The world becomes so much larger and more interesting in this book! So many new people and events and FEELINGS!
At least some of the loose ends were tied in this book, so I'm so glad I read it. But there are so many possibilities! I mean, ok, some things I can guess, but I'm curious what Anne Bishop will do with this series. It was absolutely great so far, all I hope is that it won't get ruined, like a lot of series do. But hey, guess we'll wait and see. And keep our fingers crossed!
One thing I thought will happen didn't: This book really didn't focus on Meg and Simon's relationship, not as much as I expected it to. But, for me at least, it was so much better! I know a lot of people will be disappointed by this, and all I can say is that I'm glad I'm not one of them.
Still, this book was worth the wait! It's hard to find books that I love as much as this one, and I'm really happy when I do!
September 16, 2019
[4.5 Stars] This one was really good, but I swear I was so stressed out while reading this book! It terrified me and made me feel sick in a way that was totally intended, but disturbing nonetheless. Most of the books in this series have been fairly dark if you think about it. The growing tensions between the humans and the others finally come to a crescendo here though, and it's left me feeling a little exhausted. I really did love this book though, if that is even something I can really say about a book like this that is filled with so much darkness. I'll give it a five stars here on goodreads, but for some reason I can't bring myself to give it a full 5 star rating. That last chapter though...
September 29, 2020
Buddy read with the amazing UF group over at BB&B - This is one of the best Urban Fantasy series' and a must read for all UF fans!!!
The sweet blood has changed things. You have changed because of her. We are intrigued by the humans who have gathered around your Courtyard, so we will give you some time to decide how much human the terra indigene will keep.
When the forceful HFL, the human first and last, movement decided that humans were better than the terra indigene, that they deserved more land, more power, they forgot that the Others they knew were only the buffer between them and the Others from the wild country. These Others who are older and more dangerous than the shifters and vampires the humans know, who are the true predators of this world, will do whatever they need to put a stop to the destructive humans.
When Simon Wolfguard received the ominous message from the Elders, the Others who no one ever sees, he knows that war is coming and that he together with the Others in the Lakeside Courtyard and in other areas will need to guard the cassandra sangue and the few humans who has become their allies and their friends. But can they save them all when the HFL attacks in such a savage and traumatic way, that the retaliation of the Elders could mean the extinction of the human race?
The terra indigene knew that a storm was coming. The only questions were when it would hit and what would still be standing when it was done.
I have no idea how to explain how exhilarating and addictive this series turned out to be. With every installment the plot just becomes more gripping, more suspenseful and I freaking LOVE it!!! I adore this world Anne Bishop has created, with the Others who has walked the earth for millennia, adapting as the world evolves and the humans, the smart meat, that they live in shaky peace with.
There so many tense moments in this book, so much pain and heartache. We’ve known now for a couple of books that the HFL is planning something that would have dangerous consequences and seeing the devastation and violence they were capable of sickened and angered me. And knowing that this isn’t just fiction, there are humans in our world capable of the same prejudice and destruction, who think they have the right to judge and rule over others. It’s unfortunately human nature and we are our own worst enemy.
I adore all the characters, the bonds and friendships they have formed. Everyone played prominent roles in this book, from the blood prophets who had so many frightening visions, showing death and destruction, to the humans who have allied themselves with the Others, the view Intuit settlements and all the Others who has befriended them.
Meg continues to play a big role in being the Trailblazer for the other blood prophets, working on the guidebook, hoping her methods of coping will be beneficial for the others. There were times when I was so frustrated with her, her addiction to cutting and the euphoria that comes with it, and her inability to see, to want another method of seeing visions. But she did get better near the end, so I’m hoping things will be different now. I love the direction things are going for the blood prophets and I can’t wait to see more.
Just how human could Simon be without giving up what he was? Was there a way to find an answer without either of them getting hurt?
Then of course there is Simon and the very slow romance that is developing between him and Meg. I adore them together, how much they’ve come to mean to each other and I’ve really loved the slow development of their romance. And with the way things ended, I’m so looking forward to the next book.
There aren’t a lot of series’ that has such a wonderful and intriguing world as this series, such a captivating plot and amazing characters. I love this series and everything about it. A must read for all who loves UF, you’re missing out on something awesome if you haven’t read it yet!! READ IT.
March 13, 2016
This is what feels like the 100th buddy read with my exploding-fluffball-friend Simona <3
This series has been full of Ups and Downs for me.
I still like the first instalment best, which means that none of the following instalments has been able to sweep me off my feet as I had hoped.
The first half
Let me rip of the band-aid, quick and easy: The first half of Marked in Flesh was a borefest. The plot was dissatisfying. The multiple POVs inflicted physical pain, and there were so many voices crammed into the book that the ones I wanted to hear were not heard, not enough. There was an absolute lack of character development (or any characterization, in general), friendships and romance. There was just blah blah blah. Bishop has always been an author that gives a lot of attention to details, as in detailed descriptions of thoughts or actions which readers would deem unnecessary – and this has been a special trait of her writing from the beginning, but this was the first time it started to piss me off. Enough with the supply lists and the meaningless conversations! I often found myself skimming and I had never skimmed parts in this series before, so I guess the quality stooped to a new and unexpected low.
The second half
The second half was more satisfying as the pace picked up, the tension increased and I finally got the well deserved action parts. There were still too many POVs to my liking but it finally held my attention as the wrath of Namid’s creatures unleashed on the Earth. There was a lot of death and chaos and Nina clapping her hands like an excited little girl. And finally, there were also some subtle developments in the characters and in the romance. The latter I enjoyed particularly but, still, I expected more.
No matter how exciting the second part had been, the first part weighs heavy. Furthermore, there are general aspects that bother me:
➟ The pace of romantic development – despite the little goodies we were fed in the end, the overall development is going at an agonizing snail's pace (yes, I know it’s not the centre of the book, I know, but come one, the pace of this romance is a snoozefest!)
➟ The randomness of some of the subplots – sometimes it feels like Bishop had a plan for the plot at large but is making up the subplots as she works her way through the series (as in, things suddenly happen without a build-up, without a prior development that would give any hints as to why something happened)
➟ The multiple POVs are a huge problem as they take away “screen time” from the main characters, the ones that actually interest me, the ones I care about (I don’t give a damn about Steve Ferryman or Joe Wolfgard, I just don’t)
With how the book ended, I’m actually wondering what the next book’s plot will consist of since this could have very well been the finale. Of a sort. I will pick up the next book, just to complete the series, but my expectations have plummeted from the sky like a comet full of disappointments.
Btw, beware of the sharks.
This series has been full of Ups and Downs for me.
I still like the first instalment best, which means that none of the following instalments has been able to sweep me off my feet as I had hoped.
The first half
Let me rip of the band-aid, quick and easy: The first half of Marked in Flesh was a borefest. The plot was dissatisfying. The multiple POVs inflicted physical pain, and there were so many voices crammed into the book that the ones I wanted to hear were not heard, not enough. There was an absolute lack of character development (or any characterization, in general), friendships and romance. There was just blah blah blah. Bishop has always been an author that gives a lot of attention to details, as in detailed descriptions of thoughts or actions which readers would deem unnecessary – and this has been a special trait of her writing from the beginning, but this was the first time it started to piss me off. Enough with the supply lists and the meaningless conversations! I often found myself skimming and I had never skimmed parts in this series before, so I guess the quality stooped to a new and unexpected low.
The second half
The second half was more satisfying as the pace picked up, the tension increased and I finally got the well deserved action parts. There were still too many POVs to my liking but it finally held my attention as the wrath of Namid’s creatures unleashed on the Earth. There was a lot of death and chaos and Nina clapping her hands like an excited little girl. And finally, there were also some subtle developments in the characters and in the romance. The latter I enjoyed particularly but, still, I expected more.
No matter how exciting the second part had been, the first part weighs heavy. Furthermore, there are general aspects that bother me:
➟ The pace of romantic development – despite the little goodies we were fed in the end, the overall development is going at an agonizing snail's pace (yes, I know it’s not the centre of the book, I know, but come one, the pace of this romance is a snoozefest!)
➟ The randomness of some of the subplots – sometimes it feels like Bishop had a plan for the plot at large but is making up the subplots as she works her way through the series (as in, things suddenly happen without a build-up, without a prior development that would give any hints as to why something happened)
➟ The multiple POVs are a huge problem as they take away “screen time” from the main characters, the ones that actually interest me, the ones I care about (I don’t give a damn about Steve Ferryman or Joe Wolfgard, I just don’t)
With how the book ended, I’m actually wondering what the next book’s plot will consist of since this could have very well been the finale. Of a sort. I will pick up the next book, just to complete the series, but my expectations have plummeted from the sky like a comet full of disappointments.
Btw, beware of the sharks.
“Do you know what we call humans in a boat?”
“No, what?”
“Meat in a can.”
October 28, 2017
The first book blew me out of the water as an incredible ride I didn't want to get off of. Unfortunately the ride has faltered as the series continued, even if it stays addictive and hard to put down. The three stars for this one means it's good, but not great, and that's the same reasons as the last book - too much time spend in other's heads and other packs. I don't care about anyone other than the Lakeside folks, but we don't get as much time or character development with them as I'd hoped. I was getting tired of the plot for the human movement a little too, but I'm happy to say a lot of that is finally resolved in this book.
The story is fine but the shifting of too many point of views made the pacing stumble. Thankfully skimming isn't something I'm afraid to do when its needed. There's a fun progression at the end concerning a certain relationship, and I can't complain about anything that's in the actual town and the actual characters I enjoy. As with the other books, this dark series packs a humorous punch, so we do get some cute moments to lighten the mood.
The world-building is complex, strongly conceived, and unique - but I dare so the author went a little too big in the scope for this one? To start with one small town and their lives and then start spiraling out to cover more and more people is tricky to do and handle well. Sure, the new characters are interesting and may be fine in their own right, but we didn't necessarily need to be in their heads so much or see their stories first hand. It almost felt like an anthology of different stories in different towns in one book.
While there is a fun promising spark for the two mains, there is little character progression in the main character lives - internally or with each other. It felt like they were kind of pushed to the side for the sake of the larger picture, which isn't what interested me as much as the Lakeside community. I'm more interested in how all this affects the group I like, not the world with new players.
The story is fine but the shifting of too many point of views made the pacing stumble. Thankfully skimming isn't something I'm afraid to do when its needed. There's a fun progression at the end concerning a certain relationship, and I can't complain about anything that's in the actual town and the actual characters I enjoy. As with the other books, this dark series packs a humorous punch, so we do get some cute moments to lighten the mood.
The world-building is complex, strongly conceived, and unique - but I dare so the author went a little too big in the scope for this one? To start with one small town and their lives and then start spiraling out to cover more and more people is tricky to do and handle well. Sure, the new characters are interesting and may be fine in their own right, but we didn't necessarily need to be in their heads so much or see their stories first hand. It almost felt like an anthology of different stories in different towns in one book.
While there is a fun promising spark for the two mains, there is little character progression in the main character lives - internally or with each other. It felt like they were kind of pushed to the side for the sake of the larger picture, which isn't what interested me as much as the Lakeside community. I'm more interested in how all this affects the group I like, not the world with new players.
February 4, 2017
I got this beauty yesterday and I sat down and devoured it in one sitting. I just can get enough of these characters and the world Anne Bishop has so expertly built. That slow burn relationship between Simon and Meg is wonderfully torturous and I LOVE IT!! This will most definitely go down as one of my fave series Ever.
10 I want more Stars
10 I want more Stars
March 23, 2016
★★★★★ One of the best books of 2016 for me, thus far.
March 9, 2017
4 stars
The Others is a series that I can without a shred of doubt say there's not another like it. I've had to be very patient with these books, but it's been more than worth it. Anne Bishop has crafted an urban fantasy that is so unique in its storytelling, characters, and worldbuilding, and after every book I'm already wishing for the next one.
In a nutshell, the series is set in Thasia, a place that resembles Earth geographically but otherwise couldn't be more different - or scarier. The very first of Thasia's inhabitants are what's called the Others, or the terra indigene, who rule the land and simply allow humans to exist. They are the earth's claws and teeth. Many of them keep humans at a distance and prefer to stay in the wild country, while others are supernatural creatures who have also acquired human skin - shape-shifters and vampires - and act as enforcers, making sure humans don't step out of line. But then Meg Corbyn, a cassandra sangue, or blood prophet, forms a close relationship with Simon Wolfgard and his Courtyard, and the world of Thasia starts shifting in ways neither side could have predicted.
In this fourth book, tension between the Others and humans are at its highest. For the first time readers have entered into the minds of the Others who are not shape-shifters, who are Thasia's oldest creatures and who are tired of violent, petty humans. Their point-of-view is unnerving and creepy, and one of my favorite parts of the book. If it weren't for Meg the trailblazer and her friendship with Simon, human life may have been extinguished already. But it's their relationship - and the feelings of Simon's pack and Courtyard toward her - that have thus far given them pause. How much humanity are the Others willing to tolerate?
The scope of Marked in Flesh is much broader than any book before it; we are reaching beyond Simon's Courtyard to the surrounding areas, linking different characters - especially the recently rescued cassandra sangue and their prophecies. This also means more points of view than ever, and while I liked getting to know the new characters and watching the entire, chilling picture unfold, I also wish it didn't have to take so much time away from Simon and Meg. They are one of my favorite book couples, despite the fact that their romance is at a snail's pace. There is something so endearing and sweet about their romance - Simon's patience and protectiveness, his Wolf-like tendencies and adorable confusion about human courtship, complementing Meg's innocence, curiosity, and kind-heartedness so perfectly. I will finish this series and still ache for more Meg and Simon time! The moments we get with them in this latest book are painfully few, but still I love how they are always thinking of each other and how the romance is building to something truly special.
There's not much action in this story; it's mainly watching the stupidity of humanity unfold, while waiting with bated breath to see how the Others would react. I also enjoyed how Meg is trying to come up with ways she and her fellow blood prophets can glean prophecies without having to resort to cutting. Their story is one of the most haunting in the series.
If you're looking for your next urban fantasy series, I highly recommend The Others. They're long reads, but rewarding, and I can guarantee you will fall in love with the world Anne Bishop has created almost immediately. And that's doubly true for Simon - for me he is the heart and soul of this series!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for approving my request in exchange for my honest review.
This review can also be found at Love at First Page.
October 11, 2016
Good Lord. I had no idea how much of story was even plotted because I was soooo bored. All this stuff happens 300 pages in! This is literally the slowest build-up of any romance I have ever read and I'm sad to say that this one made me lose interest in the entire relationship. It dragged on and on and on. About what really? Organizing how they're going to survive, getting toilet paper, feminine hygiene products and bison meat??? There was also way too many characters. Usually I can handle a lot, but this one had multiple towns and their mini story-lines all running together into one big giant mess. I also couldn't read any more of how they're planning for this huge terrible thing to happen. And the Humans versus Others could have taken a different role instead it became the only "plot." And when it did it was almost laughable. I'm also sick of every character instantly liking or loving Meg like she's a chosen one. Doesn't anyone NOT care for her? The tarot cards were a nice addition to her cutting addiction. The Elders and the Elementals appeared and proved destruction but I never felt like they did. The writing is so much more different than her previous novels. She made me care in the previous books, with this one? Not so much.
Such a shame that I have to stop reading this series because I just lost interest. Sorry Meg and Simon, I'm just not interested in seeing you drag out your relationship for several books. I need an end already and sadly this went in a different direction. There was no growth, only a little bit of hope. Sadly I'm not one to care anymore. I'm actually a little upset that I wasted time reading this..
Such a shame that I have to stop reading this series because I just lost interest. Sorry Meg and Simon, I'm just not interested in seeing you drag out your relationship for several books. I need an end already and sadly this went in a different direction. There was no growth, only a little bit of hope. Sadly I'm not one to care anymore. I'm actually a little upset that I wasted time reading this..
January 13, 2022
When Meg first arrived in Lakeside, on the run from the Controller (Book 1, Written in Red), she changed things forever. She found a place for herself within the Others –– the werewolves, vampires and other terra indigent who live there –– as their human liaison and through her prophecies has saved them more than once.
Now things are coming to a head. The HFL (Humans First & Last) movement have moved from small acts of prejudice to open hostility and violence towards the Others. As foment spreads across Thaisia, a small group of the Cassandra Sangue (blood prophets) are the only warning of the impending violence. And as war approaches, even Meg can't predict where the pieces will fall and whether any of those she loves will survive.
I loved Marked in Flesh, I just couldn't put it down. It really is a toss up between this book and Murder of Crows as to which is my favorite in the series. I'll probably go with Murder of Crows just for the simple reason that the conclusion of this book was a little unwieldy, it was probably around 50 pages when 10 pages would have served the book better. That's my opinion and I should note that I'm very much in the minority. Most people I know think it's perfect.
Now things are coming to a head. The HFL (Humans First & Last) movement have moved from small acts of prejudice to open hostility and violence towards the Others. As foment spreads across Thaisia, a small group of the Cassandra Sangue (blood prophets) are the only warning of the impending violence. And as war approaches, even Meg can't predict where the pieces will fall and whether any of those she loves will survive.
I loved Marked in Flesh, I just couldn't put it down. It really is a toss up between this book and Murder of Crows as to which is my favorite in the series. I'll probably go with Murder of Crows just for the simple reason that the conclusion of this book was a little unwieldy, it was probably around 50 pages when 10 pages would have served the book better. That's my opinion and I should note that I'm very much in the minority. Most people I know think it's perfect.
August 7, 2021
reread agosto 2021 - me quedo con las 4 estrellas.
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4.5 howling stars
---RTC----
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4.5 howling stars
“We’re not here to take care of you humans,” he said. “We never were. We’re here to take care of the world.”
---RTC----
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