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Jesse James Dawson #5
A Line in the Sand
AN ACT OF FAITH
Jesse James Dawson is a husband and father who never intended to be the guardian of 275 extra souls, or to find himself in the middle of a demon war. When that war comes right to his front door, endangering his family, he is forced to seek aid from the last people he ever wanted to ask: the Catholic church and the priest sent to protect him, Cameron.
The Order of St. Silvius is made up of warrior-priests, operating out of its home base in Vatican City. The holy order has been facing off with demons for centuries. In a city as ancient and steeped in magic as Rome is, a few centuries is plenty of time to hide a few secrets, and what Jesse and Cameron don’t know could get them killed.
Jesse James Dawson is a husband and father who never intended to be the guardian of 275 extra souls, or to find himself in the middle of a demon war. When that war comes right to his front door, endangering his family, he is forced to seek aid from the last people he ever wanted to ask: the Catholic church and the priest sent to protect him, Cameron.
The Order of St. Silvius is made up of warrior-priests, operating out of its home base in Vatican City. The holy order has been facing off with demons for centuries. In a city as ancient and steeped in magic as Rome is, a few centuries is plenty of time to hide a few secrets, and what Jesse and Cameron don’t know could get them killed.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 13, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
December 31, 2019
4.5 Stars
Another Jesse James Dawson book, another extremely entertaining ride.
After not only failing to rid himself of the extra 275 souls he possesses but unleashing a fallen angel on the world, Jesse is desperate. Desperate enough to turn to the Order of St. Silvius for help. Jesse makes the trip to Rome to see if the oldest group of demon hunters has the answers he needs.
This was the best book since Book 2, and my second favorite overall in the series. We get some new characters, a glimpse into the Church sanctioned group of champions, and several big revelations. Not to mention a wrenching ending.
5 books into a series, there is little to say that hasn’t already been said in previous reviews. I will say that I think this series is significantly underrated. The humor is excellent, KA Stewart does as good a job as anybody I’ve read at writing a humorous narration. These books are by far the most grounded urban fantasy I’ve read. The author talks about the realities of fighting demons. Taking care of weapons, paying hospital bills, the toll on the champion’s family. It sounds like it could be a bit dry, but it’s not, it’s very engaging.
Honestly, these books read like a smaller scope, more family oriented Dresden Files. No, they’re not the same. No, the world building isn’t nearly as extensive. And no, I don’t think this books have quite the polish as Dresden. But the tone of the main character, a good guy trying to do the right thing and sometimes doing things he wishes he didn’t have to in order to accomplish the right thing are similar to some of the themes in Dresden.
I’ve blazed through these books, my only real complaint is I wish they were longer. Anyone looking for a fun urban fantasy should check these out.
Another Jesse James Dawson book, another extremely entertaining ride.
After not only failing to rid himself of the extra 275 souls he possesses but unleashing a fallen angel on the world, Jesse is desperate. Desperate enough to turn to the Order of St. Silvius for help. Jesse makes the trip to Rome to see if the oldest group of demon hunters has the answers he needs.
This was the best book since Book 2, and my second favorite overall in the series. We get some new characters, a glimpse into the Church sanctioned group of champions, and several big revelations. Not to mention a wrenching ending.
5 books into a series, there is little to say that hasn’t already been said in previous reviews. I will say that I think this series is significantly underrated. The humor is excellent, KA Stewart does as good a job as anybody I’ve read at writing a humorous narration. These books are by far the most grounded urban fantasy I’ve read. The author talks about the realities of fighting demons. Taking care of weapons, paying hospital bills, the toll on the champion’s family. It sounds like it could be a bit dry, but it’s not, it’s very engaging.
Honestly, these books read like a smaller scope, more family oriented Dresden Files. No, they’re not the same. No, the world building isn’t nearly as extensive. And no, I don’t think this books have quite the polish as Dresden. But the tone of the main character, a good guy trying to do the right thing and sometimes doing things he wishes he didn’t have to in order to accomplish the right thing are similar to some of the themes in Dresden.
I’ve blazed through these books, my only real complaint is I wish they were longer. Anyone looking for a fun urban fantasy should check these out.
March 7, 2018
What I really like about this series is that Jesse is normal, no super powers, no super anything, just a regular guy that fights evil. With this book so much has come to a head and Jesse has to make a really hard decision. Sure it's the right thing to do, but it comes at a great cost to him. What is nice, in a way, is that Jesse sees what potentially can happen by way of his friend Ivan, who seems to have made that same choice at some point.
I really wish that Jesse didn't have to make that hard choice, wish that with the events in this book that they all would have won and sure they did, but it was just the battle, not the war. And the price of the battle was very steep.
I really wish that Jesse didn't have to make that hard choice, wish that with the events in this book that they all would have won and sure they did, but it was just the battle, not the war. And the price of the battle was very steep.
May 4, 2016
“The only reason I’m alive is because I listen when my heebie jeebie alarm goes off.”
The rating is provisional. The Jesse James Dawson novels have a chronology but can be read individually. In fact, Stewart does a better-than-average job informing the new reader without insulting returnees. This volume, however, explicitly demands another. But, unlike so many others, this book includes a satisfying conclusion to the current work.
“My first defense is always sarcasm.”
Stewart once again proves herself the master of tongue-in-cheek urban fantasy with a soul. (Pun intended; read the book.) Her mix of the banal and the fantastic manages to come down squarely on the side of entertaining, if not believable. Even the latter is close enough to feed our willingness to suspend disbelief.
“It wasn’t until I became a father myself that I truly understood the hell I must have put my own through.”
For all his smarts and talent, Jesse James Dawson is an everyman. An ordinary person dumped into extraordinary company and circumstances. A character, unlike certain superheroes, with which the reader can identify. Further, through the course of each story he grows.
“A human body was not meant to contain more than one soul.”
The plotting, character development, and delivery are all first class. Yes, pop corn for the brain, but so much more nutritious. Good job.
“I’m why my guardian angel drinks.”
A thought: Stewart also slides in a serious inquiry into the nature of freedom and consequences among all the mystical martial arts mayhem. (I’d add “magic” for a fifth “m” but it’s beyond silly already.) I have no idea about Stewart’s beliefs, but the serious reader is tempted to self-reflection as he or she reads. That’s worth an extra star. (Coincidentally, if you believe in coincidences, I recently began re-reading Blaise Pascal Pensées, which raises my attentiveness to such considerations.)
“I’d asked an angel why God hadn’t sent help. And his answer was, ‘What makes you think he hasn’t?’”
The rating is provisional. The Jesse James Dawson novels have a chronology but can be read individually. In fact, Stewart does a better-than-average job informing the new reader without insulting returnees. This volume, however, explicitly demands another. But, unlike so many others, this book includes a satisfying conclusion to the current work.
“My first defense is always sarcasm.”
Stewart once again proves herself the master of tongue-in-cheek urban fantasy with a soul. (Pun intended; read the book.) Her mix of the banal and the fantastic manages to come down squarely on the side of entertaining, if not believable. Even the latter is close enough to feed our willingness to suspend disbelief.
“It wasn’t until I became a father myself that I truly understood the hell I must have put my own through.”
For all his smarts and talent, Jesse James Dawson is an everyman. An ordinary person dumped into extraordinary company and circumstances. A character, unlike certain superheroes, with which the reader can identify. Further, through the course of each story he grows.
“A human body was not meant to contain more than one soul.”
The plotting, character development, and delivery are all first class. Yes, pop corn for the brain, but so much more nutritious. Good job.
“I’m why my guardian angel drinks.”
A thought: Stewart also slides in a serious inquiry into the nature of freedom and consequences among all the mystical martial arts mayhem. (I’d add “magic” for a fifth “m” but it’s beyond silly already.) I have no idea about Stewart’s beliefs, but the serious reader is tempted to self-reflection as he or she reads. That’s worth an extra star. (Coincidentally, if you believe in coincidences, I recently began re-reading Blaise Pascal Pensées, which raises my attentiveness to such considerations.)
“I’d asked an angel why God hadn’t sent help. And his answer was, ‘What makes you think he hasn’t?’”
January 23, 2016
Dammit, woman, you made me cry. Next book, please?
February 23, 2016
2.5 star, rounded up
It's the weakest book in the series so far. I always come back to the adventures of Jesse, but this book was less entertaining than the previous ones for the few reasons.
First of all, the story was very predictable. Really. I knew almost from the start that the Cardinal was involved and Sveta and Ivan's relationship was obvious. And there weren't many plot twists and surprises. Bad guys showed up (or should I call them bad priests?) and made things more difficult then we got to the finale that wasn't very big either. Another fight and another contract with a little twist. Disappointing.
Second thing, is Cameron really a warrior-priest or is this some kind of a joke? He certainly didn't look like any kind of a fighter in my eyes. I saw him more as incompetent and weak. And it's a pity because I liked him in the previous books (that big spell that almost got him killed was quite awesome) and he was supposed to play a major role in this book. He kind of did, I mean he was present often enough, did some praying and talking...I like him, he is a clever and decent enough guy, but what are his skills besides being able to use some magic? I didn't get to see him use any kind of weapon or even fight without them. All he did was cast some spells and make himself unconscious in the worst possible moment because of that (that was beyond stupid). He had to leave his sword, I get it, but he didn't have any spare one? And what about his hand-to-hand combat? All of the other bad guys that were his "brothers" had some fighting skills and the Cardinal was awesome with the sword, and not only because of the help of the demon. So why was Comeron portrayed like that? How does he fight demons? He certainly can't use much of the magic without exhausting himself. I don't get it.
I don't really like how the magic works in these books. It's pretty annoying that people collapse so quickly after few stronger spells. I know it comes from the body/soul (whatever) but it's just lame.
This book lacked good supporting characters. Esteban had to stay behind (pity, because things always get more interesting when he is present). Sveta is okay but I'm kind of bored of her a little. She's pretty predictable. Iwan couldn't really do much so that left weak Cameron. And that other girl? I've already forgotten her name....So it was Jesse being the star of the show again. I really like him but I wish the others played more important roles.
What saved this book was Axel (I wouldn't be reading this series without him) He is really complex and entertaining character and I absolutely love him.
That being said, I'm still going to read the next book because I'm curious how it's all going to end. Things are starting to get bigger and there is much more at stake than before. This series is still entertaining enough, nice and fast read for the few evenings when I'm in the mood for something like that.
One more thing. Why there is no information that this is the 5th book in the Jesse Dawson series next to the title? I only noticed this book because the cover looked familiar. It shows 4 books in the series and this one is still not part of it...It should be fixed. This is not a popular book (and it's an understatement) so making it hard to find is not going to help it...
It's the weakest book in the series so far. I always come back to the adventures of Jesse, but this book was less entertaining than the previous ones for the few reasons.
First of all, the story was very predictable. Really. I knew almost from the start that the Cardinal was involved and Sveta and Ivan's relationship was obvious. And there weren't many plot twists and surprises. Bad guys showed up (or should I call them bad priests?) and made things more difficult then we got to the finale that wasn't very big either. Another fight and another contract with a little twist. Disappointing.
Second thing, is Cameron really a warrior-priest or is this some kind of a joke? He certainly didn't look like any kind of a fighter in my eyes. I saw him more as incompetent and weak. And it's a pity because I liked him in the previous books (that big spell that almost got him killed was quite awesome) and he was supposed to play a major role in this book. He kind of did, I mean he was present often enough, did some praying and talking...I like him, he is a clever and decent enough guy, but what are his skills besides being able to use some magic? I didn't get to see him use any kind of weapon or even fight without them. All he did was cast some spells and make himself unconscious in the worst possible moment because of that (that was beyond stupid). He had to leave his sword, I get it, but he didn't have any spare one? And what about his hand-to-hand combat? All of the other bad guys that were his "brothers" had some fighting skills and the Cardinal was awesome with the sword, and not only because of the help of the demon. So why was Comeron portrayed like that? How does he fight demons? He certainly can't use much of the magic without exhausting himself. I don't get it.
I don't really like how the magic works in these books. It's pretty annoying that people collapse so quickly after few stronger spells. I know it comes from the body/soul (whatever) but it's just lame.
This book lacked good supporting characters. Esteban had to stay behind (pity, because things always get more interesting when he is present). Sveta is okay but I'm kind of bored of her a little. She's pretty predictable. Iwan couldn't really do much so that left weak Cameron. And that other girl? I've already forgotten her name....So it was Jesse being the star of the show again. I really like him but I wish the others played more important roles.
What saved this book was Axel (I wouldn't be reading this series without him) He is really complex and entertaining character and I absolutely love him.
That being said, I'm still going to read the next book because I'm curious how it's all going to end. Things are starting to get bigger and there is much more at stake than before. This series is still entertaining enough, nice and fast read for the few evenings when I'm in the mood for something like that.
One more thing. Why there is no information that this is the 5th book in the Jesse Dawson series next to the title? I only noticed this book because the cover looked familiar. It shows 4 books in the series and this one is still not part of it...It should be fixed. This is not a popular book (and it's an understatement) so making it hard to find is not going to help it...
January 17, 2016
I can never get enough of Jesse James Dawson. KA Stewart's series is one of my favorites, and A Line in the Sand gave me everything I hoped for.
Jesse's still stuffed full of souls and every demon around is coming for them--and him. Axel, as always, seems to be the only demon on Jesse's side, but who in their right mind trusts a demon? Jesse's friends, fellow warriors, and his wonderful mentor, Ivan, all join forces to combat the demon onslaught. A Line in the Sand has glorious battles, horrific secrets, and kick-butt clergy. This ain't your mama's Catholic Church.
No spoilers from this reader! I've erased several sentences because I couldn't hint at the Big Events without ruining the moment for others.
Stewart's writing grabbed me by the throat and flung me into Jesse's peril and I loved every minute of the ride.
Jesse's still stuffed full of souls and every demon around is coming for them--and him. Axel, as always, seems to be the only demon on Jesse's side, but who in their right mind trusts a demon? Jesse's friends, fellow warriors, and his wonderful mentor, Ivan, all join forces to combat the demon onslaught. A Line in the Sand has glorious battles, horrific secrets, and kick-butt clergy. This ain't your mama's Catholic Church.
No spoilers from this reader! I've erased several sentences because I couldn't hint at the Big Events without ruining the moment for others.
Stewart's writing grabbed me by the throat and flung me into Jesse's peril and I loved every minute of the ride.
January 23, 2016
Jesse James Dawson, champion of souls, demon slayer, all around bad-ass is about to get his keister handed to him on a silver platter-- in Rome no less.
Harboring souls that everyone wants, Jesse must get rid of them or his family, friends, and himself are on the demon's chopping block-- all so the Queen mother can steal the power for herself and destroy the world.
But, Jesse isn't going to lay down. Human or not, he's trickier than that. The question is, though, has he run out of things in his bag of tricks?
Not wanting to spoil the story, I won't say anymore except that this is the best entry yet in the series. K. A. Stewart just keeps on rocking it and I sure am glad she does
Harboring souls that everyone wants, Jesse must get rid of them or his family, friends, and himself are on the demon's chopping block-- all so the Queen mother can steal the power for herself and destroy the world.
But, Jesse isn't going to lay down. Human or not, he's trickier than that. The question is, though, has he run out of things in his bag of tricks?
Not wanting to spoil the story, I won't say anymore except that this is the best entry yet in the series. K. A. Stewart just keeps on rocking it and I sure am glad she does
March 4, 2016
Loved the story, as I expected. There isn't a part of Jesse that I don't adore. Each book brings you closer to the characters you've come to know & love. I can see that there's another coming....I may have squeed. :)
January 29, 2018
There are some books I read simply because I really enjoy hanging out with the characters. Toby Daye, Eve and Roarke, the Dresden Files - they all have things I love about them outside of the awesome characters, but if I'm honest, the characters are what keep me coming back.
KA Stewart's Jesse James Dawson set is another one in that category. (It's also the ONLY series I've ever read that the interwebs has compared to the Dresden Files that I think comes damn close to being worthy of the description. Yes, Jesse and Harry are very different people: In some ways, Jesse is what you'd get if you crossed Michael Carpenter with Harry's sense of snark and issues with authority. But in another... the vibe is similar enough to be familiar, without feeling as though it's a complete copy/paste).
But all of that said, there's a lot more than just characterisation going on in this installment. It's hard to know what to share without giving away spoilers for previous books - but let's say that Jesse's growing into his role as a leader, whether he wants to or not (and regardless of the personal cost). And we finally get some resolution for his soul passengers. Plus, at last we get to find out who Axel really is. (Incidentally, I called it early in the book. But that didn't stop me enjoying the big reveal anyway.)
My only real issue with this book is that it's the final (so far) in the series - but the story very, very clearly isn't over yet. Over on her blog, Ms Stewart mentions back in mid 2016 that she was starting to create notes for the sixth book in the series... but there's nothing more about it since then. (Then again, she hasn't updated since September 2016, so that may not mean anything). And since GR doesn't mention a sixth book, I can only assume it hasn't been written yet. And I really, really want to find out how it ends.
But hey. I don't know what's going on in her life. She may even no longer be writing at all for a multitude of reasons. And if so, that's always her prerogative. But damn... I still wish I knew ;-)
KA Stewart's Jesse James Dawson set is another one in that category. (It's also the ONLY series I've ever read that the interwebs has compared to the Dresden Files that I think comes damn close to being worthy of the description. Yes, Jesse and Harry are very different people: In some ways, Jesse is what you'd get if you crossed Michael Carpenter with Harry's sense of snark and issues with authority. But in another... the vibe is similar enough to be familiar, without feeling as though it's a complete copy/paste).
But all of that said, there's a lot more than just characterisation going on in this installment. It's hard to know what to share without giving away spoilers for previous books - but let's say that Jesse's growing into his role as a leader, whether he wants to or not (and regardless of the personal cost). And we finally get some resolution for his soul passengers. Plus, at last we get to find out who Axel really is. (Incidentally, I called it early in the book. But that didn't stop me enjoying the big reveal anyway.)
My only real issue with this book is that it's the final (so far) in the series - but the story very, very clearly isn't over yet. Over on her blog, Ms Stewart mentions back in mid 2016 that she was starting to create notes for the sixth book in the series... but there's nothing more about it since then. (Then again, she hasn't updated since September 2016, so that may not mean anything). And since GR doesn't mention a sixth book, I can only assume it hasn't been written yet. And I really, really want to find out how it ends.
But hey. I don't know what's going on in her life. She may even no longer be writing at all for a multitude of reasons. And if so, that's always her prerogative. But damn... I still wish I knew ;-)
February 13, 2018
When the demon war raging largely unseen comes right to Jesse's doorstep, endangering his wife and children, in pursuit of the power contained in the 275 extra souls he is carrying around, it's time for drastic measures. Along with Sveta, Ivan and Cameron, he heads to Rome, hoping that the Church in form of the Order of Saint Silvius is able to help. The last thing they expect to find is the Order itself to have been infiltrated by demons, landing them in yet more danger the second they arrive.
This one was a little predictable in parts, but nevertheless an immensely entertaining read. We finally find out something more about Axel's background, and he continues to be the most interesting character in the series. Now, if only there were a release date for the next book available...
This one was a little predictable in parts, but nevertheless an immensely entertaining read. We finally find out something more about Axel's background, and he continues to be the most interesting character in the series. Now, if only there were a release date for the next book available...
February 17, 2018
My Heart
Oh mam...my heart. This was the most gutwrenching one yet. A great entry and led me wanting more! More of Axel, More of Cameron! Poor Jesse...my heart breaks for him. I adore how this author does not sugar coat or wave away what would most likely be the realities of the life of a demon slayer. As much as we would wish for all sunshine and roses, the real world always comes back. I hope the next book comes soon! I can't wait to read more!!
Oh mam...my heart. This was the most gutwrenching one yet. A great entry and led me wanting more! More of Axel, More of Cameron! Poor Jesse...my heart breaks for him. I adore how this author does not sugar coat or wave away what would most likely be the realities of the life of a demon slayer. As much as we would wish for all sunshine and roses, the real world always comes back. I hope the next book comes soon! I can't wait to read more!!
September 17, 2018
I have enjoyed this series very much, that the demon fighting hero is such a normal person really adds to his appeal. I liked the supporting characters that he gathered together over the course of the books. This one wrapped up an arc but paved the way for something bigger - though at this point, two years, after this last book there may not be more:(
Read
April 15, 2022I only like to read a book that is in a series if the series was finished and I always check Goodreads to see if the series is finished, so I was very surprised and disappointed that Good Reads did not advise that this book was Not the last in the series. I hate unknown endings. If you do also do not read this series. Very Very disappointed.
July 17, 2017
The library finally got the last 3 Jesse James Dawson novels and I zipped right through them. This urban fantasy hero reminds me of Jim Butcher's Harry Dresden.
January 17, 2018
Awesome! I want more. Recommended for anyone that loves unique paranormal series. Hard to put down once started, though. Fair warning.
August 6, 2018
Good read as always
Good read as always . Never fails to deliver a unique story. Can't wait for book six. Thank youvK.a. Stewart
Good read as always . Never fails to deliver a unique story. Can't wait for book six. Thank youvK.a. Stewart
July 4, 2019
I love Jesse. He's right up there with John Taylor and Harry Dresden. No, he isn't the son of a goddess or a Wizard but he still gets the job done.
October 30, 2016
I thought it was going to be ridiculous, but I literally Could Not put it down!
August 12, 2018
Original review: https://myshelfbooks.wordpress.com/20...
First of all, I LOVE this saga!! I swear I love it!! Even though I bought the book two years ago and haven't read until today, I LOVE the saga!! I just have a lot of selfcontrol... OK. OK. I'm busted. I truly love this saga, but I forgot about the fifth book until I saw it in my shelf... still wrapped with the plastic used by the delivery company. Shame on me!!
I have always been a slow reader by choice, but lately I'm even slower due to the duties of life. This book of Jesse James has lasted about two days... that's how much I LOVE this saga!! Yes, I will always use capital letters. My love is big!! Also, the book is kind of short; but still this time record is a big deal for me. Anyway, I guess you haven't entered here to read about myself, so... Let's review a book, shall we?
Jesse James Dawson is a demon hunter that not long ago became the vessel of 275 souls. As in every fantasy book, souls are pretty powerful and a wet dream for any baddie out there. So, his life is in constant danger due to them. He even lives with two bodyguards that keep him safe at all time. But the good Jesse knows that he can't continue like that. He has a wfie and children... Demons breaking and entering at all time is not really the best scenario to rise a family.
So, the quest begins to get rid of the souls!! The companions: Sveta, the deadly champion; Cameron, the warlock priest and Ivan, the sick mentor. All of them travel to Rome to meet the leader of Cam's Order (warrior monks or something like that). Jesse hopes that Order could help him to release the souls so nobody can claim their power. Obviously, nothing is as simple as that and soon the whole team is running for their lives. The whole team + a local nun that could totally be a superhero based in Italy. Is there something the lady couldn't do? She is even funny!! K. A. Stewart is SO good creating characters!! Every time I finish a book of this saga I think about a half dozen characters that could have their own books. Fingers crossed for future spin-offs!!
Even though I LOVE Jesse, my all-time favourite is Axel. It's not because he is a blond bad boy, not at all (OK, OK... a little bit of that). The main reason is because he is a mystery. He is a demon, but more than evil we could say he is mischievous (think about Loki). Yes, he has his own agenda; but that doesn't mean he doesn't care for Jesse and company. I honestly think he is a good guy and the author has given me a lot of points to support that in this book. I won't spoiler them, but let's say I wasn't expecting that revelation about Axel.
As always, the book is packed with action and crazy funny jokes. Yes, I get Jesse's sense of humor. And I LOVE (I promise, I won't do this again) all his T-shirts!! Where does he get so many silly ones? I have never seen anything like that in any shop of my town!! This book has made me laugh hard more often than not.
The end is heartbreakening... I wasn't expecting that :(. I hope everything gets better, but doesn't look like it's going to happen anytime soon. The sixth book hasn't been published yet. I don't even know if K. A. Stewart has finished it. We will have to wait and I promise I won't forget reading the next one.
First of all, I LOVE this saga!! I swear I love it!! Even though I bought the book two years ago and haven't read until today, I LOVE the saga!! I just have a lot of selfcontrol... OK. OK. I'm busted. I truly love this saga, but I forgot about the fifth book until I saw it in my shelf... still wrapped with the plastic used by the delivery company. Shame on me!!
I have always been a slow reader by choice, but lately I'm even slower due to the duties of life. This book of Jesse James has lasted about two days... that's how much I LOVE this saga!! Yes, I will always use capital letters. My love is big!! Also, the book is kind of short; but still this time record is a big deal for me. Anyway, I guess you haven't entered here to read about myself, so... Let's review a book, shall we?
Jesse James Dawson is a demon hunter that not long ago became the vessel of 275 souls. As in every fantasy book, souls are pretty powerful and a wet dream for any baddie out there. So, his life is in constant danger due to them. He even lives with two bodyguards that keep him safe at all time. But the good Jesse knows that he can't continue like that. He has a wfie and children... Demons breaking and entering at all time is not really the best scenario to rise a family.
So, the quest begins to get rid of the souls!! The companions: Sveta, the deadly champion; Cameron, the warlock priest and Ivan, the sick mentor. All of them travel to Rome to meet the leader of Cam's Order (warrior monks or something like that). Jesse hopes that Order could help him to release the souls so nobody can claim their power. Obviously, nothing is as simple as that and soon the whole team is running for their lives. The whole team + a local nun that could totally be a superhero based in Italy. Is there something the lady couldn't do? She is even funny!! K. A. Stewart is SO good creating characters!! Every time I finish a book of this saga I think about a half dozen characters that could have their own books. Fingers crossed for future spin-offs!!
Even though I LOVE Jesse, my all-time favourite is Axel. It's not because he is a blond bad boy, not at all (OK, OK... a little bit of that). The main reason is because he is a mystery. He is a demon, but more than evil we could say he is mischievous (think about Loki). Yes, he has his own agenda; but that doesn't mean he doesn't care for Jesse and company. I honestly think he is a good guy and the author has given me a lot of points to support that in this book. I won't spoiler them, but let's say I wasn't expecting that revelation about Axel.
As always, the book is packed with action and crazy funny jokes. Yes, I get Jesse's sense of humor. And I LOVE (I promise, I won't do this again) all his T-shirts!! Where does he get so many silly ones? I have never seen anything like that in any shop of my town!! This book has made me laugh hard more often than not.
The end is heartbreakening... I wasn't expecting that :(. I hope everything gets better, but doesn't look like it's going to happen anytime soon. The sixth book hasn't been published yet. I don't even know if K. A. Stewart has finished it. We will have to wait and I promise I won't forget reading the next one.
April 6, 2016
I was so pleased to finally see another entry to this great series has been released. Jesse James Dawson and his allies are gearing up to face the world-ending demonic threat unleashed in the previous book. But first they have to get rid of the most obvious target literally painted onto Jesse's back: the 200+ extra souls passed into his keeping by a former client. Removing the souls without killing Jesse or them while at the same time keeping them out of the hands of evil is proving to be an extremely tricky business. The list of people to trust is very, very short, and none of them have an answer.
Unfortunately, that means having to turn to people who are less than trustworthy. The Catholic Church's Champions, the Order of St. Silvanius (whom Jesse irreverently refers to as the Knights Stuckupidus) may be able to find a solution or at least offer sanctuary until a solution can be found. So off to Rome Jesse and his cadre of protectors go to meet with the Order's leader. Jesse's personal demon Axel is still hanging around, and hints that he might also have some ideas at removing the souls safely, but trusting a demon with anything is never a good plan. Especially one so powerful and respected that other demons refer to him as The Architect.
The characters are of course quirky and memorable. Jesse is always ready with a quip and a snarky t-shirt to back it up (I still find it hilarious that as a grown man in his 30s and a demon-fighting Champion he works at Hot Topic). Ivan and Sveta provide broody Eastern European badassery, and get their own little arc. Brother Cameron is forced to prove what he's worth once and for all. We meet new allies and new enemies as well.
This is such an excellently constructed series. Each book has its own standalone arc that gets resolved (mostly) within that book, but it also contributes to the overplot by giving us more information and solving some problems from previous books while adding others for future books. This is not an easy feat for an author to pull off, juggling both a contained book-length arc and a series-length arc without giving us too much or too little of each. It all adds up to one hell of a ride.
Absolutely can't wait for the next installment.
Unfortunately, that means having to turn to people who are less than trustworthy. The Catholic Church's Champions, the Order of St. Silvanius (whom Jesse irreverently refers to as the Knights Stuckupidus) may be able to find a solution or at least offer sanctuary until a solution can be found. So off to Rome Jesse and his cadre of protectors go to meet with the Order's leader. Jesse's personal demon Axel is still hanging around, and hints that he might also have some ideas at removing the souls safely, but trusting a demon with anything is never a good plan. Especially one so powerful and respected that other demons refer to him as The Architect.
The characters are of course quirky and memorable. Jesse is always ready with a quip and a snarky t-shirt to back it up (I still find it hilarious that as a grown man in his 30s and a demon-fighting Champion he works at Hot Topic). Ivan and Sveta provide broody Eastern European badassery, and get their own little arc. Brother Cameron is forced to prove what he's worth once and for all. We meet new allies and new enemies as well.
This is such an excellently constructed series. Each book has its own standalone arc that gets resolved (mostly) within that book, but it also contributes to the overplot by giving us more information and solving some problems from previous books while adding others for future books. This is not an easy feat for an author to pull off, juggling both a contained book-length arc and a series-length arc without giving us too much or too little of each. It all adds up to one hell of a ride.
Absolutely can't wait for the next installment.
February 14, 2016
Felt like a long wait, but that's only because K.A. Stewart's Jesse James Dawson (#5 in the series) is back and the story continues where we left off -- and zowie, pow, slam, bang -- it was well worth the wait!
Stewart continues the tale of Jesse Dawson, is a champion who fights demons to save souls. He is one of a small cadre of champions around the country who take on fights to save people who have made bad deals and now must forfeit their souls to the demons who bargin to collect. Only this time, Jesse is currently carrying 275 souls besides his own and if those souls decide that Jesse, their protector, is in trouble then they could go off (magically) like a nuclear bomb. And for this reason, ever demon, priest and fallen angel are interested in collecting these souls, no matter how they have to do it.
And that's the story in A Line In the Sand, how a certain few decide they are going to get those souls from Jesse and how Jesse is going to thwart them.
We have our same cast of characters as in the first four books, but there are troubles and complications anew, some delightful, some heart wrenching. Stewart manages to weave an intricate story, tossing us into the deep end of a plot. And we swim because the tale is that good, the characters that compelling. I love Jesse James Dawson because he is original and flawed and courageous. I love his friends because the are real and make me laugh sometimes.
Stewart's story of Jesse James Dawson is one of my favorites. Here's hoping it won't be too long before he's back in a new tale because this one ends with a terrific promise. I can hardly wait.
Stewart continues the tale of Jesse Dawson, is a champion who fights demons to save souls. He is one of a small cadre of champions around the country who take on fights to save people who have made bad deals and now must forfeit their souls to the demons who bargin to collect. Only this time, Jesse is currently carrying 275 souls besides his own and if those souls decide that Jesse, their protector, is in trouble then they could go off (magically) like a nuclear bomb. And for this reason, ever demon, priest and fallen angel are interested in collecting these souls, no matter how they have to do it.
And that's the story in A Line In the Sand, how a certain few decide they are going to get those souls from Jesse and how Jesse is going to thwart them.
We have our same cast of characters as in the first four books, but there are troubles and complications anew, some delightful, some heart wrenching. Stewart manages to weave an intricate story, tossing us into the deep end of a plot. And we swim because the tale is that good, the characters that compelling. I love Jesse James Dawson because he is original and flawed and courageous. I love his friends because the are real and make me laugh sometimes.
Stewart's story of Jesse James Dawson is one of my favorites. Here's hoping it won't be too long before he's back in a new tale because this one ends with a terrific promise. I can hardly wait.
April 2, 2016
A worthy continuation of Jesse James Dawson's story.
Jesse is off to Rome to see if the Catholic church can help him get rid of the souls he is carrying. What could possibly go wrong?
In some ways, this book felt like a connection between the last book, and the next book. A lot of things changed; we learned more about some characters (Axel! My favourite), and we now know what is likely to be coming up next, in the way of plot direction. A good decision on Stewart's part, I think; things are starting to get bigger and more complicated than just fighting one demon at a time. Therefore, enough story to support several more books. Excellent.
Jesse is off to Rome to see if the Catholic church can help him get rid of the souls he is carrying. What could possibly go wrong?
In some ways, this book felt like a connection between the last book, and the next book. A lot of things changed; we learned more about some characters (Axel! My favourite), and we now know what is likely to be coming up next, in the way of plot direction. A good decision on Stewart's part, I think; things are starting to get bigger and more complicated than just fighting one demon at a time. Therefore, enough story to support several more books. Excellent.
February 6, 2016
More, please!
Jesse James Dawson makes me want to cultivate a serious snarky shirt addiction and get into martial arts, never mind that I'd never make it even close to demon-defeating levels in the latter.
Jesse is one of my favorite urban fantasy protagonists, mainly because K.A. Stewart's writing has shaped him, along with his illustrious cast of supporting characters--including one snarky demon--into a complex and ultimately utterly likeable protagonist. Add that to punchy dialogue and lots of action and great attention to character details and world building and I'm guaranteed not to put the book down.
The latest installment of the Jesse James Dawson series definitely held up to its title: it draws a clear line, and without any spoilers, I want the next book NOW. Can't wait to see where this is going. If you haven't picked up this series yet, do yourself a favor and fix that now. You're welcome.
Jesse James Dawson makes me want to cultivate a serious snarky shirt addiction and get into martial arts, never mind that I'd never make it even close to demon-defeating levels in the latter.
Jesse is one of my favorite urban fantasy protagonists, mainly because K.A. Stewart's writing has shaped him, along with his illustrious cast of supporting characters--including one snarky demon--into a complex and ultimately utterly likeable protagonist. Add that to punchy dialogue and lots of action and great attention to character details and world building and I'm guaranteed not to put the book down.
The latest installment of the Jesse James Dawson series definitely held up to its title: it draws a clear line, and without any spoilers, I want the next book NOW. Can't wait to see where this is going. If you haven't picked up this series yet, do yourself a favor and fix that now. You're welcome.
April 29, 2016
The first three books in this series were pretty much stand-alone stories that were tied together by the Champion back-story (if that is the right way to describe it). In each of those books there was a mission to be completed with just minor long-term story building. Book 4, 'A Snake In The Grass', went in a new direction with the emergence of a long-term villain who is not to be as easily vanquished. 'A Line In The Sand' is essentially part 2 of this story, and while there is a contained story, the big picture has become more of the focus. Book 5 has a little more action than book 4, has a few major revelations, and adds and subtracts people from Jesse's life. I look forward to the next book.
Read
June 22, 2016Self-published after Stewart's publisher dropped the series for lack of sales. Credit to the author for continuing; I hope they get enough to write the sixth book. (This was only $4 on Smashwords, which doesn't seem like a lot of money but I'm certainly grateful, not least because Smashwords don't do DRM and therefore I can buy from them; listen up, epub booksellers, stop using DRM. Stop publishers doing it too.)
Anyway, that ain't the point. The point is: this is The One Where We Figure Out What The Deal With Axel is. And Ivan! Which is good. On the other hand, am starting to believe that if JJD were to bump into someone at a bus stop then they'd turn out to have a demon in them.
Want to read
October 18, 2016UPDATE: And one more thing, why the hell isn't it included as #5 in the Jesse James Dawson series??? Why???
I'm not going to jump in until the sixth and last book is published for two simple reasons:
1-> I don't know if A Line in the Sand ends in a cliffhanger.
2-> There is not date for the next book. Book which is the last one in the series.
I would seriously do bodily harm if I read it, cliffy happened and I didn't have a publishing date already -been there, done that and still hate it.
Yeah, I can wait, patiently, because IMO A Snake in the Grass had an adequate ending to pull this waiting off.
I'm not going to jump in until the sixth and last book is published for two simple reasons:
1-> I don't know if A Line in the Sand ends in a cliffhanger.
2-> There is not date for the next book. Book which is the last one in the series.
I would seriously do bodily harm if I read it, cliffy happened and I didn't have a publishing date already -been there, done that and still hate it.
Yeah, I can wait, patiently, because IMO A Snake in the Grass had an adequate ending to pull this waiting off.
June 26, 2016
This series has sucked me in and will not let me go. And I'm fine with that. The character of Jesse was what got me in the first book and this book kept me with him. I only have two problems. One that I don't yet own a copy of this book, so I have to return it and can't reread the passages I like. Two that there is any wait between books in this series. I understand that it takes time for the author to write the book and put it out, but it seems so long when you are waiting to read the next one.
February 5, 2016
Great addition to the JJD world! This latest adventure was thrilling and heartfelt, and I was honestly nervous about the end. I was kinda hoping that Jesse would have a few more demons to take on, BUT, what a twist with Axel! Seriously, I did not see that one coming. Though there was enough action to keep the story moving, there were some emotional moments too. My heart definitely went out to Jesse a few times, and the series will likely take a darker turn in the next novel... Which I cannot wait for!
March 2, 2016
Fast read. Jesse James Dawson is an engaging character, a swordsman who challenges demons to win back the souls of those who sold them. This the fifth book in the series and ties up a major plot point that has been dangling since book 3, I believe, while still building toward the climactic confrontation to come.
January 22, 2017
Sooooooo good
This series is one of the best. This book continues that trend. K A Stewart remains one of the greatest in this field right now and her abilities deserved to be praised
This series is one of the best. This book continues that trend. K A Stewart remains one of the greatest in this field right now and her abilities deserved to be praised
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