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The Venom Trilogy #3
Hisses and Honey
The climactic final volume of The Venom Trilogy by USA Today bestselling author Shannon Mayer.
Humble baker turned supernatural Alena Budrene is lovely and lethal, and for the first time, she’s owning it. Finally rid of her low-life ex-husband, she’s free to date sexy vampire mob boss Remo, who respects her as both a Supe and a woman. She’s on good terms with her difficult mother, and she’s growing comfortable with her powers.
But just when it seems things are falling into place for Alena, Hera strikes again: the Aegrus virus rages across Seattle, threatening the life of everyone in its path—including Remo, infected by Hades. The only way to stop the carnage is to face Hera and her army in a no-prisoners battle to determine the fate of the human race—and Alena’s future.
In a sweeping voyage from the Seattle bar scene to a netherworld populated by murderous gods and monsters, Alena confronts one adversary after another on a quest to set the world right for both humans and Supes and demonstrate her power—to the gods and to herself—once and for all.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2017
1044 people are currently reading
1516 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Mayer
161 books7,255 followersA long time ago, in a galaxy far away, I was born into a family of Star Wars nuts. I have a lot of siblings (somewhere I lost count but I think there was more than could be numbered on one hand) and being one of the young padawans I was subjected to Star Wars marathons, on a regular basis. If you've read any of my books you'll see there is often a reference to said movies as a small homage to my upbringing. May the force be with you and all that jazz.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
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September 4, 2017
Hisses and Honey (The Venom Trilogy #3) by Shannon Mayer is the last book in the series and I hate to see it end! This has been a fun ride! In this book she finally gets her divorce but she also has to do so much more too! She also discovers major family surprises. You meet more creatures, gods, and see more battles. Will miss this!! The narration was perfect as with the other two audible books!
September 5, 2017
Well, it was a good read. However, this last book fell flat for me for many reasons.
First I'll be honest that I'd been quietly rooting for Smitty. I normally go for the first guy introduced as a romantic interest in whatever book, but this time I found Remo lacking. His flipflop back and forth a couple times in this book didn't scream I love you to me. But whatever, sadly I wasn't that invested in Alena to be truly upset.
I thought the wrap up of the ARC was a little silly though it kept with the all the crumbles left throughout the series.
I really didn't get her mother's decision toward the end. I'm being vague for spoilers. Because wasn't Alena changing the world. So why wouldn't the Mom have hope. It felt a little GoT to me. Like the author wanted at least one casualty.
The whole thing about her dad being a warlock came out of nowhere. Her aunt was a goblin and her mother was 100% human. So that meant the goblin was on the dad's side of the family. How does one be a goblin and the other warlock? I don't think this whole thing was explained well.
To me the warlock thing was not originally planned. Because why would her dad not change her or Tad. Supposedly it was because he didn't have enough juice to do it or because of her mom didn't want him to. Really, what kind of Dad is he if he lets his kids die because the wife wanted them to. Or if he thought he wasn't strong enough, why was he willing to "in danger" his life for strangers and not his kids. I call BS. This was thought of after the first two books were written and an explanation as to why was tossed in. I don't buy it.
I also think the author gave into peer pressure from the reviews to make Alena curse. Though she still said her made up words a few times even after straight up cursing.
All in all, I don't regret reading, but I'm disappointed. Now I have to decide if I'll read other books out by this author. I think I might give one a try.
Would I recommend this series? Yes, to those who like UF with very light steam. There is no sex at all in this book/series, not even fade to black. But there is a slight steaminess here and there. Nothing to write home about. It didn't bother me, but don't read if that's a must have for your enjoyment.
First I'll be honest that I'd been quietly rooting for Smitty. I normally go for the first guy introduced as a romantic interest in whatever book, but this time I found Remo lacking. His flipflop back and forth a couple times in this book didn't scream I love you to me. But whatever, sadly I wasn't that invested in Alena to be truly upset.
I thought the wrap up of the ARC was a little silly though it kept with the all the crumbles left throughout the series.
I really didn't get her mother's decision toward the end. I'm being vague for spoilers. Because wasn't Alena changing the world. So why wouldn't the Mom have hope. It felt a little GoT to me. Like the author wanted at least one casualty.
The whole thing about her dad being a warlock came out of nowhere. Her aunt was a goblin and her mother was 100% human. So that meant the goblin was on the dad's side of the family. How does one be a goblin and the other warlock? I don't think this whole thing was explained well.
To me the warlock thing was not originally planned. Because why would her dad not change her or Tad. Supposedly it was because he didn't have enough juice to do it or because of her mom didn't want him to. Really, what kind of Dad is he if he lets his kids die because the wife wanted them to. Or if he thought he wasn't strong enough, why was he willing to "in danger" his life for strangers and not his kids. I call BS. This was thought of after the first two books were written and an explanation as to why was tossed in. I don't buy it.
I also think the author gave into peer pressure from the reviews to make Alena curse. Though she still said her made up words a few times even after straight up cursing.
All in all, I don't regret reading, but I'm disappointed. Now I have to decide if I'll read other books out by this author. I think I might give one a try.
Would I recommend this series? Yes, to those who like UF with very light steam. There is no sex at all in this book/series, not even fade to black. But there is a slight steaminess here and there. Nothing to write home about. It didn't bother me, but don't read if that's a must have for your enjoyment.
March 7, 2017
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads.
As much as I admire Shannon Mayer’s other bodies of work, after three installments I think it’s safe to say that the VENOM TRILOGY was a bust for me. HISSES AND HONEY was the worst of the bunch which is unfortunate because I still held on to a glimmer of hope that Alena might pull through in the end.
This novel was the embodiment of everything that is wrong with the Urban Fantasy genre. Exhibit A: the romance. Remo dumps Budrene to “protect” her, and then two other suitors immediately line-up to take his place (ok, only one is a serious candidate, but still). I hate everything about this trope from the sacrificial lamb of a relationship to the insta-love-replacement.
Exhibit B: Alena . Authors are permitted to play fast and loose with most of the founding rules of reality, it’s one of the perks of writing Speculative Fiction. However, there are a select few that should be handled with extreme care such as ! I don’t care if the world consists of gods, and potent magic, this is a big red flag that should be avoided at all cost.
Exhibit C: limitless power. I’m a little fuzzy on the timeline, but no more than a couple of weeks have elapsed since Lena was a diminutive human dying of the Aegrus virus. Yet, since then she’s defeated countless members of the pantheon, changed the unfavourable laws governing supernaturals, and saved the population from certain death. All with minimal help, training or repercussions.
HISSES AND HONEY is for readers who still believe in the tooth fairy, the Easter bunny, and Santa.
As much as I admire Shannon Mayer’s other bodies of work, after three installments I think it’s safe to say that the VENOM TRILOGY was a bust for me. HISSES AND HONEY was the worst of the bunch which is unfortunate because I still held on to a glimmer of hope that Alena might pull through in the end.
This novel was the embodiment of everything that is wrong with the Urban Fantasy genre. Exhibit A: the romance. Remo dumps Budrene to “protect” her, and then two other suitors immediately line-up to take his place (ok, only one is a serious candidate, but still). I hate everything about this trope from the sacrificial lamb of a relationship to the insta-love-replacement.
Exhibit B: Alena . Authors are permitted to play fast and loose with most of the founding rules of reality, it’s one of the perks of writing Speculative Fiction. However, there are a select few that should be handled with extreme care such as ! I don’t care if the world consists of gods, and potent magic, this is a big red flag that should be avoided at all cost.
Exhibit C: limitless power. I’m a little fuzzy on the timeline, but no more than a couple of weeks have elapsed since Lena was a diminutive human dying of the Aegrus virus. Yet, since then she’s defeated countless members of the pantheon, changed the unfavourable laws governing supernaturals, and saved the population from certain death. All with minimal help, training or repercussions.
HISSES AND HONEY is for readers who still believe in the tooth fairy, the Easter bunny, and Santa.
March 16, 2018
Rating: 2.5/5.0
The third installment in the series. Honestly, I did not like this one. The first book was good, the second one is OK and this third was just boring. I didn't feel much for the characters or the events. Did not feel myself rooting for them. What made me like the first book was the dark atmosphere it had. The second book lacked that eery atmosphere. The third I would say is leaning more toward cheesy!
After reading all the books in this trilogy I can say it is just a time pass series. If you read it you might like it, but if you skip this series you are not missing anything spectacular.
The third installment in the series. Honestly, I did not like this one. The first book was good, the second one is OK and this third was just boring. I didn't feel much for the characters or the events. Did not feel myself rooting for them. What made me like the first book was the dark atmosphere it had. The second book lacked that eery atmosphere. The third I would say is leaning more toward cheesy!
After reading all the books in this trilogy I can say it is just a time pass series. If you read it you might like it, but if you skip this series you are not missing anything spectacular.
September 11, 2021
Really was not a fan of this one. All of the characters were annoying and contradictory and just did things that didn’t make sense. Boo them all! That ending was mediocre and incredibly anti climactic compared to what it should have been. Not to mention that I feel like there are still a lot of unanswered questions
December 23, 2019
I read this so you don’t have to.
Judging by the lack of 1-star reviews, I am clearly the only reviewer that suffered through all three books from pure spite, making sure that no one could judge my lack of commitment. I kept going to ensure that I wasn't just misjudging the first TWO books in a TRILOGY, and I really wasn't.
Alena, our amazingly gorgeous baker snake monster woman, has defeated two heroes, what could she have to do next? Defeat a third hero of course! This author clearly had an idea for a short story, and somehow convinced a publisher to let her have six times that in printing. Sad.
These characters' emotions are all over the place in romance, loyalty, and anger. I never felt connected to anyone beyond Hephasteus who is severely underutilized. He has chemistry, a real backstory, and no STUPID CHIN FANG PIERCINGS. I will forever use that description to describe the idiocy of this book and warn away other potential readers.
Just to continue being a polite reviewer, I won't spoil the ending. But let's just say that it resembles Twilight in the same way the author's name gives me shivers in it's similarity to Stephanie Meyer. Damn, I think this book is ruining my own writing style. But since I was not drawn in by the spinoff potential near the end, I will wash my hands of this series and author.
Judging by the lack of 1-star reviews, I am clearly the only reviewer that suffered through all three books from pure spite, making sure that no one could judge my lack of commitment. I kept going to ensure that I wasn't just misjudging the first TWO books in a TRILOGY, and I really wasn't.
Alena, our amazingly gorgeous baker snake monster woman, has defeated two heroes, what could she have to do next? Defeat a third hero of course! This author clearly had an idea for a short story, and somehow convinced a publisher to let her have six times that in printing. Sad.
These characters' emotions are all over the place in romance, loyalty, and anger. I never felt connected to anyone beyond Hephasteus who is severely underutilized. He has chemistry, a real backstory, and no STUPID CHIN FANG PIERCINGS. I will forever use that description to describe the idiocy of this book and warn away other potential readers.
Just to continue being a polite reviewer, I won't spoil the ending. But let's just say that it resembles Twilight in the same way the author's name gives me shivers in it's similarity to Stephanie Meyer. Damn, I think this book is ruining my own writing style. But since I was not drawn in by the spinoff potential near the end, I will wash my hands of this series and author.
April 3, 2020
Having obtained her divorce and bested Theseus on live TV, Alena has gained the respect of humans and become a champion of the supernatural community. Her joy on regaining her bakery is short lived when Remo breaks off their relationship in an effort to protect her from his brother Santos as well as the vampire council who have forbidden inter species relationships.
With the virus now having reached pandemic levels and the pantheons already choosing their sides, Alena must travel to the ends of the earth and the very depths of hell (literally) resulting in a final showdown with Hercules and the hydra and finally Hera herself.
Hisses and Honey is the final instalment of the Venom series which finally sees Alena come into her own. It’s been quite a journey witnessing her transformation from a meek and pliant housewife/baker to a fearsome Drakaina. Seeing her grow in confidence and embrace who and what she was, was a revelation. While she retained the admirable qualities that made her human, these qualities became her strengths rather than her weakness. I particularly liked her standoff with Hera. Her speech was a powerful moment.
The way that the author has managed to mix an array of mythological and supernatural characters into one giant melting pot was impressive. Although all the loose ends were tied up nicely, I felt it was rushed and there was still potential for more books. The teaser at the end however suggests a possible spin off. I recommend this for fans of vampires, werewolves, warlocks, shifters, sirens, Greek/Arthurian mythology and of course baking!
I listened to this book in audible form which was narrated by Saskia Maarleveld. I was impressed by the way she was masterfully able to bring each character to life with their own unique voice, switching effortlessly between characters and accents.
With the virus now having reached pandemic levels and the pantheons already choosing their sides, Alena must travel to the ends of the earth and the very depths of hell (literally) resulting in a final showdown with Hercules and the hydra and finally Hera herself.
Hisses and Honey is the final instalment of the Venom series which finally sees Alena come into her own. It’s been quite a journey witnessing her transformation from a meek and pliant housewife/baker to a fearsome Drakaina. Seeing her grow in confidence and embrace who and what she was, was a revelation. While she retained the admirable qualities that made her human, these qualities became her strengths rather than her weakness. I particularly liked her standoff with Hera. Her speech was a powerful moment.
The way that the author has managed to mix an array of mythological and supernatural characters into one giant melting pot was impressive. Although all the loose ends were tied up nicely, I felt it was rushed and there was still potential for more books. The teaser at the end however suggests a possible spin off. I recommend this for fans of vampires, werewolves, warlocks, shifters, sirens, Greek/Arthurian mythology and of course baking!
I listened to this book in audible form which was narrated by Saskia Maarleveld. I was impressed by the way she was masterfully able to bring each character to life with their own unique voice, switching effortlessly between characters and accents.
March 7, 2017
What a finale that was.
Alena has one last fight and wow it's going to be huge.
I love how far Alena has come in these 3 books from a meek mild baker to a wife scorned by a cheating a-hole to nearly dieing from the aegus virus, to being turned into a Super Dupe giant snake lol it has been a very exciting ride and seriously watching Alena grow in strength with each book was awesome in many ways but the main one it was all for LOVE, love for herself, love for her family, love for herself, love for Remo and love for the world as a whole.
Alena never gave up even when other closest to her doubted her or left her because they thought they were trying to protect her in the end she realised she didn't need them to believe in her even though it would have been nice...lol what she needed was to truly believe in herself, own her new self and be the very best person she could be monster side and all, then everyone would believe in her once they saw she fully believed in herself.
Alena has one last fight and wow it's going to be huge.
I love how far Alena has come in these 3 books from a meek mild baker to a wife scorned by a cheating a-hole to nearly dieing from the aegus virus, to being turned into a Super Dupe giant snake lol it has been a very exciting ride and seriously watching Alena grow in strength with each book was awesome in many ways but the main one it was all for LOVE, love for herself, love for her family, love for herself, love for Remo and love for the world as a whole.
Alena never gave up even when other closest to her doubted her or left her because they thought they were trying to protect her in the end she realised she didn't need them to believe in her even though it would have been nice...lol what she needed was to truly believe in herself, own her new self and be the very best person she could be monster side and all, then everyone would believe in her once they saw she fully believed in herself.
April 27, 2023
The trilogy ends on hisses and honey and it was okay. Romo was a jerk to Alina and I wish she gave someone else a chance rather than pining after him. I get he he was trying to save her “blah blah blah” but maybe he should have worked WITH not against her. Anyway, the reason for the plague etc was so dumb, Gods playing with lives because they want ????
August 5, 2024
Enjoyed this series :)
March 7, 2017
The first two books in this series were good yet I had a hard time truly getting into books that are about Greek Mythology and that have vampires. Book 3 Hisses and Honey blew all that away and I absolutely loved it! Hisses and Honey is so fast paced, I was hooked from the beginning. I read the entire book in one afternoon.
Alena has finally come into her own, she has accepted who she is and she is FINALLY one Kick Ass Chick. Yet she still is vulnerable and loving with all the best qualities she had as a human with none of the weaknesses.
I loved the way book 3 tied everything together so smoothly and we got a little of all the big hitters. Hera, Zeus, Hades, Poseidon, etc. Not to mention an evil Hydra that Alena must battle, which was awesome!
Overall I was thrilled with book three in the series and I really loved it, despite it not being about topics I really want to read. That is saying something!
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Alena has finally come into her own, she has accepted who she is and she is FINALLY one Kick Ass Chick. Yet she still is vulnerable and loving with all the best qualities she had as a human with none of the weaknesses.
I loved the way book 3 tied everything together so smoothly and we got a little of all the big hitters. Hera, Zeus, Hades, Poseidon, etc. Not to mention an evil Hydra that Alena must battle, which was awesome!
Overall I was thrilled with book three in the series and I really loved it, despite it not being about topics I really want to read. That is saying something!
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January 23, 2017
Alena has become a reluctant super-hero despite being a monster. She has finally received her divorce and is looking forward to a future with Remo. She knows that the danger is far from over, Hera is sending another hero against her and he will be aided by the Hydra that Merlin created under Hera’s orders but she believes with her friends and allies she can be victorious. She is out on her first real date with Remo who she believes will let her be the strong, independent woman she always known she could. She has finally come to terms with being the Drakania and claims the power that comes with it. Unfortunately, she is still second guessing herself way too much and belittling herself over incidents that she coped with in the only way possible which has been a recurring problem throughout the series. I know that the author is trying to show how humane, sympathetic and caring she is despite what she was changed into but I don’t think the readers needed it banged into their heads repeatedly throughout the series; her actions show us that without the same words being written over and over again.
After Remo leaves her devastated because he has chosen to do what the vampire council would expect instead of fight for his right to be with her she decides to handle things the best she can. Hera has ramped up the Aegrus Virus by putting it in the water so more human will contract and have to choose whether to live or die. The vampire council believes that their numbers will soon be great enough that they can rule the world and this is just one more battle that she knows she must fight against. Her first battle with Hercules and the Hydra leaves her mortally wounded and she hopes to die because of what happened during the fight but Smithy rushes her to his place where Panacea manages to save her although she has been unconscious for days. Smith doesn’t want her to continue, he’s afraid that the next time she will be killed but she is determined to find Zeus, he is the only one who can control of the rest of the pantheon and stop the Hera and her cohorts from causing more havoc against humanity. Despite being the king of the gods, Zeus has been hiding in the mortal world because of the regrets he has over the mistakes he made with his son Hercules. He knows that Hera has sent him after Alena and doesn’t want to have chose between his soon and the rest of the world. She is also determined to regain what she lost during the battle with the Hydra and se doesn’t care if she must die in order to succeed.
4/5 STARS: **I want to thank the author and/or publisher for providing me with a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review; all opinions are mine.**
After Remo leaves her devastated because he has chosen to do what the vampire council would expect instead of fight for his right to be with her she decides to handle things the best she can. Hera has ramped up the Aegrus Virus by putting it in the water so more human will contract and have to choose whether to live or die. The vampire council believes that their numbers will soon be great enough that they can rule the world and this is just one more battle that she knows she must fight against. Her first battle with Hercules and the Hydra leaves her mortally wounded and she hopes to die because of what happened during the fight but Smithy rushes her to his place where Panacea manages to save her although she has been unconscious for days. Smith doesn’t want her to continue, he’s afraid that the next time she will be killed but she is determined to find Zeus, he is the only one who can control of the rest of the pantheon and stop the Hera and her cohorts from causing more havoc against humanity. Despite being the king of the gods, Zeus has been hiding in the mortal world because of the regrets he has over the mistakes he made with his son Hercules. He knows that Hera has sent him after Alena and doesn’t want to have chose between his soon and the rest of the world. She is also determined to regain what she lost during the battle with the Hydra and se doesn’t care if she must die in order to succeed.
4/5 STARS: **I want to thank the author and/or publisher for providing me with a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review; all opinions are mine.**
March 13, 2017
Hisses and Honey is the final book in the Venom Trilogy and thankfully it did answer some of the questions that have lingered since book one. In fact, we get answers, but there are so many things that happen in this book that the plot gets a bit muddled and overwhelming at times. If the answers had been doled out throughout all three books, the last book might not have felt so much like a dumping ground of information.
Also, throughout the three books I’ve felt like I’ve gotten a bit of whiplash from the romantic aspect of the book. Alena wants Remo…then Smithy gets thrown in there and some other random dudes who have either been hit by Ernie’s arrow or has been drawn in by the fact that she’s a siren. It was pretty obvious though that Remo was going to be end game…except one minute their together, then he’s pushing her away, then dragging her back, the pushing her away. It was like relationship ping pong and I could barely keep track or what was happening…and that was in just one book. I thought we’d be over that when we got to this final book, but it was just as bad. I would have rather dealt more with the fighting and craziness of the Olympus pantheon then go back and forth with Alena’s romantic entanglements.
Overall, even with a few hiccups here and there, this trilogy was a fun read. It had so much potential and while I wish some things were a bit different, I would recommend this to people who love fun, quirky urban fantasy novels. I also loved that it was set in the Seattle area. It’s always fun to see landmarks and areas I’m familiar with. I can’t wait to see what Shannon Mayer has in store for readers next.
Arc provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review
Also, throughout the three books I’ve felt like I’ve gotten a bit of whiplash from the romantic aspect of the book. Alena wants Remo…then Smithy gets thrown in there and some other random dudes who have either been hit by Ernie’s arrow or has been drawn in by the fact that she’s a siren. It was pretty obvious though that Remo was going to be end game…except one minute their together, then he’s pushing her away, then dragging her back, the pushing her away. It was like relationship ping pong and I could barely keep track or what was happening…and that was in just one book. I thought we’d be over that when we got to this final book, but it was just as bad. I would have rather dealt more with the fighting and craziness of the Olympus pantheon then go back and forth with Alena’s romantic entanglements.
Overall, even with a few hiccups here and there, this trilogy was a fun read. It had so much potential and while I wish some things were a bit different, I would recommend this to people who love fun, quirky urban fantasy novels. I also loved that it was set in the Seattle area. It’s always fun to see landmarks and areas I’m familiar with. I can’t wait to see what Shannon Mayer has in store for readers next.
Arc provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review
March 13, 2017
4.5 stars
Hisses and Honey is the final book in the Venom Trilogy by Shannon Mayer. I have really enjoyed this series and this one didn’t disappoint. Everything finally happened and I have to admit, personally, I loved how Alena addressed Hera. I thought it was funny, even if it did leave things to be a little anticlimactic. While this isn’t perfect, and some things I think could have been drawn out (scenes with Remo!) and others could have been expanded on (her yaya! Smithy! Tad and Dahlia! Sandy! The world as it stands now!), plus some things seemed out of character or thrown in that felt cheap (her mum), this was still a fun series and one I enjoyed falling into. While Alena started out quite naïve, she grew into herself and seeing her self-confidence and inner strength shine through by the end was excellent. Also having an alpha male such as Remo, who wasn’t afraid to let Alena take the lead and believed in her 100% was awesome. I just wished we saw them connecting more together. Their scenes were so few and far between. Overall, if you enjoy Greek mythology, are a fan of Mayer’s other works, or just love immersing yourself into a paranormal world, then I recommend this trilogy for you.
Hisses and Honey is the final book in the Venom Trilogy by Shannon Mayer. I have really enjoyed this series and this one didn’t disappoint. Everything finally happened and I have to admit, personally, I loved how Alena addressed Hera. I thought it was funny, even if it did leave things to be a little anticlimactic. While this isn’t perfect, and some things I think could have been drawn out (scenes with Remo!) and others could have been expanded on (her yaya! Smithy! Tad and Dahlia! Sandy! The world as it stands now!), plus some things seemed out of character or thrown in that felt cheap (her mum), this was still a fun series and one I enjoyed falling into. While Alena started out quite naïve, she grew into herself and seeing her self-confidence and inner strength shine through by the end was excellent. Also having an alpha male such as Remo, who wasn’t afraid to let Alena take the lead and believed in her 100% was awesome. I just wished we saw them connecting more together. Their scenes were so few and far between. Overall, if you enjoy Greek mythology, are a fan of Mayer’s other works, or just love immersing yourself into a paranormal world, then I recommend this trilogy for you.
January 15, 2020
Personally this trilogy fizzled in the last book. Finally a "super duper" is legally acknowledged and complete strangers are supporting Alena, and...nothing. No big rousing feelings or anythings. Fine. Your yaya is getting younger and younger, plus getting some power back and we decide this is...absolutely unimportant even though we will continue to mention it. Your boyfriend takes you on a date, stands around waiting patiently while you spend pages and pages trying to get your ex-husband to leave you alone and then dumps you. You...do everything you can to win him back. The reason he dumps you, big bad vampire council, is in town to investigate. Their threat of violence hangs over a good portion of the book as they are an enemy. The actual play time they get in the book--two pages! And perhaps three sentences!! A whole entire trilogy build up to the Hera showdown and it gets, what, four pages? I could go on, but the complete let down of these ideas, plus a complete lack of any emotional connection with Alena, or anyone else, in this book just ruined the whole story for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2017
Very enjoyable series
Loved this series, but really anything by this author rocks. Her stories just blow me away. We get lots of action, drama, well thought out worlds and characters with just enough romance thrown in to spice it up without overwhelming the story.
Loved this series, but really anything by this author rocks. Her stories just blow me away. We get lots of action, drama, well thought out worlds and characters with just enough romance thrown in to spice it up without overwhelming the story.
February 10, 2021
Alena has so much more to deal with this time around and it will take all she’s got to deal with it. She’s definitely coming into her own.
November 4, 2020
Flat! Not really exciting.
April 17, 2023
Who would have thought that a confectionaire could kick so much ass?! This little baker is one holy terror when you threaten her family, in any of its forms. I hope you aren't afraid of snakes! lol
September 17, 2017
I seriously loved this series. Action packed, with a hint of romance, and somehow the fantasy part feels like it could actually be taking place. The character growth that takes place in mere weeks, the way multiple fantasy genres come together, and the tight and fast paced plot speaks volumes to Shannon's ability to craft worlds and write stories. Another wonderful book with underlying messages that hit home. I just hope that more books in this world are on the way!
January 26, 2018
Sweets to die for through out & incredibly complex story
It really comes together in this book however and culminated all aspects perfectly: Tho I must say there are a few sad characters I would have liked to know more about. Ms. Mayer is great at combining Greek myths, paranormal romance & everyday issues along with pointing out when to be strong and proactive as a woman, instead of reactive. Her books are gifts to all....well done & I wish the wild ride wasn't over!!
It really comes together in this book however and culminated all aspects perfectly: Tho I must say there are a few sad characters I would have liked to know more about. Ms. Mayer is great at combining Greek myths, paranormal romance & everyday issues along with pointing out when to be strong and proactive as a woman, instead of reactive. Her books are gifts to all....well done & I wish the wild ride wasn't over!!
November 17, 2017
This read was generously provided by the publishers through NetGalley.
I overtaxed myself with generosity by rounding up to 3 stars. Alena Budrene's story had everything to put me on my knees. I'm a sucker for mythology, baking and urban fantasy but I felt like it was a half-assed effort most of the time. The whole time during the reading I kept coming back to thinking that if I'm gonna have an insta-badass heroine shouldn't other characters believe her too? She proves over and over that she can do shit, even though you don't know how she managed to actually pull it off, yet her closest allies don't expect it, don't encourage it and just can't be arsed to care. I mean, what the hell. Get better friends!
And then she went and...
Yea.
Still wouldn't discourage new readers.
I overtaxed myself with generosity by rounding up to 3 stars. Alena Budrene's story had everything to put me on my knees. I'm a sucker for mythology, baking and urban fantasy but I felt like it was a half-assed effort most of the time. The whole time during the reading I kept coming back to thinking that if I'm gonna have an insta-badass heroine shouldn't other characters believe her too? She proves over and over that she can do shit, even though you don't know how she managed to actually pull it off, yet her closest allies don't expect it, don't encourage it and just can't be arsed to care. I mean, what the hell. Get better friends!
And then she went and...
Yea.
Still wouldn't discourage new readers.
May 28, 2021
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator did a good job. Borrowered via KU read/listen. This was the best book in the series.
May 29, 2018
This definitely felt like a conclusion that was aware of itself - sort of like a tv show that finds out it's been cancelled as they're writing the final episode, and suddenly has to work to fit everything in. The pacing was a bit frenetic, but that has been sort of a theme through this series, and I still found myself enjoying the characters and mythology.
Anyone who enjoyed the first two books can enjoy more of the same, and the conclusion was in the same cute and quirky vibe as the first two.
Anyone who enjoyed the first two books can enjoy more of the same, and the conclusion was in the same cute and quirky vibe as the first two.
February 6, 2017
Hisses and Honey was a good conclusion to a good series. I loved seeing Alena kick butt and that ending was nice. I really liked how the "end fight" was handle.
The epilogue leaves room for a spinoff - which I would totally read - but at the same time all questions are answered and I can say I was highly entertained by this series.
Shannon Mayer did not disappoint with this series.
Rating: 4 stars
~ Book provided by NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion
The epilogue leaves room for a spinoff - which I would totally read - but at the same time all questions are answered and I can say I was highly entertained by this series.
Shannon Mayer did not disappoint with this series.
Rating: 4 stars
~ Book provided by NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion
May 1, 2017
Shannon Mayer's Hisses & Honey is the final book in the trilogy but in all likelihood not the last we'll hear from some of the characters. Alena's trials with the Pantheon's heroes finally comes to a conclusion but with a great personal price. Her love life takes several unexpected curves but a happy for now is reached. The story has plenty of action with battles, lies, deceit and tragedy to keep the readers interest.
May 16, 2017
I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
I found this a real let down after the first two instalments.
The story appeared to be rushed and the characters became confusing.
A real disappointment after the first two novels.
I found this a real let down after the first two instalments.
The story appeared to be rushed and the characters became confusing.
A real disappointment after the first two novels.
October 4, 2018
Okay seriously this is getting a three star only because this is the end. The worst series I have ever read but funny enough to get me to finish the series. I can’t say it was a good read. I can say it was silly, enough to be entertaining. Though we are all dummer for having read that series.
March 8, 2017
Nice end for an interesting series. It felt a little childish at times but the chore plot was good.
March 10, 2017
Loveee!!!
This is probably in my top 5 favorite series.
Alena is one quirky I loved her character the best!
Fun quick reads
This is probably in my top 5 favorite series.
Alena is one quirky I loved her character the best!
Fun quick reads
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