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Jane Yellowrock #13
Shattered Bonds
Jane Yellowrock must dig deep and find strength within herself if she is to survive in the latest novel in this New York Times bestselling series.
Jane Yellowrock is a shapeshifting skinwalker, and vampire killer-for-hire, but her last battle with an ancient arcane enemy has brought her low. She seeks retreat in the Appalachian Mountains to grieve the loss of her friends, and to heal--or to die--from the disease brought on by her magic.
But malevolent elements in the paranormal community still seek to destroy Jane, and the younger Son of Darkness stalks her, even into the safety of the hills. With nowhere to run and her body failing, the rogue-vampire hunter and her inner Beast must discover a way to defeat this new threat, and find a form that gives her a chance to fight another day.
Jane Yellowrock is a shapeshifting skinwalker, and vampire killer-for-hire, but her last battle with an ancient arcane enemy has brought her low. She seeks retreat in the Appalachian Mountains to grieve the loss of her friends, and to heal--or to die--from the disease brought on by her magic.
But malevolent elements in the paranormal community still seek to destroy Jane, and the younger Son of Darkness stalks her, even into the safety of the hills. With nowhere to run and her body failing, the rogue-vampire hunter and her inner Beast must discover a way to defeat this new threat, and find a form that gives her a chance to fight another day.
380 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 29, 2019
1177 people are currently reading
3078 people want to read
About the author
Faith Hunter
90 books5,715 followersFaith Hunter's Junkyard Cats novella series is available in Audible, eBook, and "ridiculously expensive" (her words) trade paperback books at this time.
Faith's Jane Yellowrock series is a dark urban fantasy. Jane is a full blooded Cherokee skinwalker and hunter of rogue-vampires in a world of weres, witches, vampires, and other supernats. 15 books and several compilations of shorts
The Soulwood series is a dark-urban fantasy / paranormal police procedural /para-thriller series featuring Nell Nicholson Ingram, an earth magic user and Special gent of PsyLED. 6 books
Her Rogue Mage novels—Bloodring, Seraphs, Host, and the RPG Rogue Mage—feature Thorn St. Croix, a stone mage in a post-apocalyptic alternate reality.
Faith is a full time writer who finally hired a housekeeper when the dust bunnies multiplied, She bakes homemade bread and loves to cook.
Faith researches in great detail, and tries most everything her characters do. Research led to her life’s passions – jewelry making, orchids, Japanese maples, bones, travel, white-water kayaking, and writing.
Faith loves orchids. Her favorite time of year is when several are blooming. Pictures can be seen at her FaceBook page. And yes, she collects bones and skulls. She has a fox, cat, dog, cow skull, goat, a boar skull, a deer skull, (that is, unfortunately, falling apart) and the jawbone of an ass. Her prize skull is a mountain lion (legally purchased from a US tannery) hit by a car in the wild.
Her latest love is Japanese maples, and she has managed to collect over thirty.
She and her husband RV, traveling to whitewater rivers to kayak all over the Southeast. Whitewater Kayaking is her very favorite sport, discovered when she was researching her (Gwen Hunter) mystery book, Rapid Descent. She took a lesson and—after a bout of panic attacks from fear of being upside down trapped in a boat—discovered she loved the sport.
Under other pen names, notably, Gwen Hunter, she writes action adventure, mysteries, and thrillers. As Gwen, she is a winner of the WH Smith Literary Award for Fresh Talent in 1995 in the UK, and won a Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award in 2008. As Faith, her books have been on the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller lists, been nominated for various awards and won an Audie Award with Khristine Hvam, among other awards. Under all her pen names, she has more than 40 books, anthologies, and complications in print in 30 countries.
For more, including a list of her books, see www.faithhunter.net , www.gwenhunter.com . To keep up with her daily, join her fan pages at Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/official.fait... and see her website blog at
www.faithhunter.net
Faith's Jane Yellowrock series is a dark urban fantasy. Jane is a full blooded Cherokee skinwalker and hunter of rogue-vampires in a world of weres, witches, vampires, and other supernats. 15 books and several compilations of shorts
The Soulwood series is a dark-urban fantasy / paranormal police procedural /para-thriller series featuring Nell Nicholson Ingram, an earth magic user and Special gent of PsyLED. 6 books
Her Rogue Mage novels—Bloodring, Seraphs, Host, and the RPG Rogue Mage—feature Thorn St. Croix, a stone mage in a post-apocalyptic alternate reality.
Faith is a full time writer who finally hired a housekeeper when the dust bunnies multiplied, She bakes homemade bread and loves to cook.
Faith researches in great detail, and tries most everything her characters do. Research led to her life’s passions – jewelry making, orchids, Japanese maples, bones, travel, white-water kayaking, and writing.
Faith loves orchids. Her favorite time of year is when several are blooming. Pictures can be seen at her FaceBook page. And yes, she collects bones and skulls. She has a fox, cat, dog, cow skull, goat, a boar skull, a deer skull, (that is, unfortunately, falling apart) and the jawbone of an ass. Her prize skull is a mountain lion (legally purchased from a US tannery) hit by a car in the wild.
Her latest love is Japanese maples, and she has managed to collect over thirty.
She and her husband RV, traveling to whitewater rivers to kayak all over the Southeast. Whitewater Kayaking is her very favorite sport, discovered when she was researching her (Gwen Hunter) mystery book, Rapid Descent. She took a lesson and—after a bout of panic attacks from fear of being upside down trapped in a boat—discovered she loved the sport.
Under other pen names, notably, Gwen Hunter, she writes action adventure, mysteries, and thrillers. As Gwen, she is a winner of the WH Smith Literary Award for Fresh Talent in 1995 in the UK, and won a Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award in 2008. As Faith, her books have been on the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller lists, been nominated for various awards and won an Audie Award with Khristine Hvam, among other awards. Under all her pen names, she has more than 40 books, anthologies, and complications in print in 30 countries.
For more, including a list of her books, see www.faithhunter.net , www.gwenhunter.com . To keep up with her daily, join her fan pages at Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/official.fait... and see her website blog at
www.faithhunter.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 532 reviews
August 1, 2019
I have loved everything by Faith Hunter and this book is no exception. It is a bit different from previous books in that it is a little more centered on Jane and what is going on internally than outside forces. We do get to see some of the other main characters but not too much about them. I don't want to spoil too much but by the end Jane seems to be going in a new and different direction.I feel like this book needed to happen so that all the gang can continue to grow and not become stale. I can't wait to see were these new developments take us.
I received this arc from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this arc from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2019
4.5 stars
I used to read a lot of urban fantasy but sort of drifted away for some reason. This is one series I continue to read because of the great characters who stalk, stake & chomp their way through a New Orleans full of vamps, grindylows & skinwalkers. And if the human residents seem a tad nervous….well, perhaps that’s down to being viewed as potential snack food.
At the heart of it all is Jane Yellowrock, a shape shifting skinwalker who made her name as a vamp killer. She’s usually a force to be reckoned with but after events in the last book, Jane is now a shadow of her former kickass self. A hard won battle & weird magic left her fatally ill. To buy herself time, Jane packed up her crew & moved to a large estate in the Appalachian Mountains. Unfortunately it might not be far enough as there are those who’ld prefer she died sooner rather than later.
You know what it’s like when you’re sick…you just wish people would leave you alone. Whereas we might deal with demanding kids or an impatient boss, Jane is being pestered by an ancient vamp affectionately known as the Son of Darkness (SOD).
When the former Master of the City died, Jane inherited control of New Orleans & all who live there. She sent in a polite “Thanks, but no thanks” but it seems SOD didn’t get the memo. Now he’s on his way with a horde of undead to seize power & chow down on anyone who gets in his way.
This can only be described as epic. The battle scenes & political machinations will have fans nervously chewing their nails to the quick. The story is given depth by the inclusion of European history, First Nations folklore & ancient religions. It goes without saying not everyone will survive & frequent injections of humour give you a moment to catch your breath. It’s a world that jumps off the page in full colour & the author provides some answers to long running subplots. Characters are diverse & fully developed whether they be furry, fanged or human.
It’s an entertaining spin on the classic tale of good vs. evil that’s hard to put down. Just a heads up: if you haven’t read this series before, don’t begin here. This is book #13 & there is a complex story arc jam packed with story lines that lead to events in this instalment. Whatever Jane faces next, it won’t be boring. Here’s hoping she gets a well earned nap first.
I used to read a lot of urban fantasy but sort of drifted away for some reason. This is one series I continue to read because of the great characters who stalk, stake & chomp their way through a New Orleans full of vamps, grindylows & skinwalkers. And if the human residents seem a tad nervous….well, perhaps that’s down to being viewed as potential snack food.
At the heart of it all is Jane Yellowrock, a shape shifting skinwalker who made her name as a vamp killer. She’s usually a force to be reckoned with but after events in the last book, Jane is now a shadow of her former kickass self. A hard won battle & weird magic left her fatally ill. To buy herself time, Jane packed up her crew & moved to a large estate in the Appalachian Mountains. Unfortunately it might not be far enough as there are those who’ld prefer she died sooner rather than later.
You know what it’s like when you’re sick…you just wish people would leave you alone. Whereas we might deal with demanding kids or an impatient boss, Jane is being pestered by an ancient vamp affectionately known as the Son of Darkness (SOD).
When the former Master of the City died, Jane inherited control of New Orleans & all who live there. She sent in a polite “Thanks, but no thanks” but it seems SOD didn’t get the memo. Now he’s on his way with a horde of undead to seize power & chow down on anyone who gets in his way.
This can only be described as epic. The battle scenes & political machinations will have fans nervously chewing their nails to the quick. The story is given depth by the inclusion of European history, First Nations folklore & ancient religions. It goes without saying not everyone will survive & frequent injections of humour give you a moment to catch your breath. It’s a world that jumps off the page in full colour & the author provides some answers to long running subplots. Characters are diverse & fully developed whether they be furry, fanged or human.
It’s an entertaining spin on the classic tale of good vs. evil that’s hard to put down. Just a heads up: if you haven’t read this series before, don’t begin here. This is book #13 & there is a complex story arc jam packed with story lines that lead to events in this instalment. Whatever Jane faces next, it won’t be boring. Here’s hoping she gets a well earned nap first.
December 20, 2019
That was effing brutal but damn good!
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
November 25, 2019
The Son of Darkness is coming for Jane. He wants something she has and he won't stop at anything until he gets it.
Dejavu?
Not so much. This is the younger Son of Darkness. There were always two. Yet, he seems to be even more powerful the other SOD.
Usually, this is when Jane gets herself ready to go into battle and helps prepare everyone for it. This time, she's the one that needs help. Jane is dying from magical cancer. A tumor is growing inside of her and nothing seems to be stopping it. She has moved away from the city of NOLA and into the mountains. Her brothers, Alex and Eli as well as Bruiser, her lover are with her and of course, Beast is never too far.
When Jane discovers that people she cared about are being taken, that a circle of witches might be being used for nefarious purposes and that her good friend and primo, Edmund is being tortured, she knows she can continue to hide any longer. She needs to assume her power as the Dark Queen for better or worse.
"The Dark Queen has been silent."
Of course, she will need all the help she can get from her new in-between shape, a new Elder of The People named Savannah Walkingstick of Long Hair Clan, her estranged brother (Ayatas), Soul, Lincoln Shaddock (the MOC of Asheville), the Everhart-Truebloods family, Eli, Alex, Bruiser and of course Beast.
I love Shattered Bonds. Jane and Beast were fantastic in this one. A true item. They have both accepted each other completely.
After the great ending Faith Hunter delivers, this series has so much new potential. I can't wait to see where this author decides to take the Yellowrock Clan next.
Cliffhanger: No
5/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Ace Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
October 29, 2019
Thanks to Berkley and Netgalley for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Faith, you've done it again! A culmination of so many storylines, this book might have become my favorite in the series. It's got depth and darkness and light and hope and grief and connection. It's got a big bad that's actually pretty damn terrifying. It's got lots of twists and turns. It's got lots of emotion and heart. Most of all, it's got Jane truly recognizing, on a deep soulful level, what's most important - the bonds she has forged with the people and creatures that have become her Clan, and similarly, accepting *who she is*, every single aspect.
While the title of this book is Shattered Bonds, don't let that fool you into thinking that Legs will be alone. Change, reforging, making something stronger is the name of the game.
There were quite a few emotional moments, but one that really stood out to me was a moment between Jane and Beast. It hit me really hard, and was absolutely mesmerizing and beautiful. Might have been my favorite moment of the series.
I really adore this series (and its spinoff, Soulwood) but if you've not read it, please start at the beginning with Skinwalker. Trying to jump in on this one will just spoil things and devalue the emotional payoff that comes with the events of a long-term series. HIGHLY recommended. ALL THE STARS.
Faith, you've done it again! A culmination of so many storylines, this book might have become my favorite in the series. It's got depth and darkness and light and hope and grief and connection. It's got a big bad that's actually pretty damn terrifying. It's got lots of twists and turns. It's got lots of emotion and heart. Most of all, it's got Jane truly recognizing, on a deep soulful level, what's most important - the bonds she has forged with the people and creatures that have become her Clan, and similarly, accepting *who she is*, every single aspect.
While the title of this book is Shattered Bonds, don't let that fool you into thinking that Legs will be alone. Change, reforging, making something stronger is the name of the game.
There were quite a few emotional moments, but one that really stood out to me was a moment between Jane and Beast. It hit me really hard, and was absolutely mesmerizing and beautiful. Might have been my favorite moment of the series.
I really adore this series (and its spinoff, Soulwood) but if you've not read it, please start at the beginning with Skinwalker. Trying to jump in on this one will just spoil things and devalue the emotional payoff that comes with the events of a long-term series. HIGHLY recommended. ALL THE STARS.
November 4, 2019
Jane’s journey has been a long one, she and the Yellowrock Clan have been through some very dangerous and trying times. Shattered bonds started off a bit dark, in that Jane is not well, she is a little defeated and not even close to being into true fighting form. It seems I’d forgotten a lot of the details from the prior book(s) but Faith Hunter did a great job of peppering in the details I needed to be up to speed.
After becoming the Dark Queen in the prior book Jane pretty much gave up all of her claims to lands and titles to go hide outside of Ashville and die. She tried to slink away alone so the people she loves don’t have he watch her go through this (silly Jane) but they found her and are trying to figure out how to save her. Jane has been spending a lot of time as Beast, since the magical cancer is only affecting her human form. It seems like Jane has kinda given up and is just waiting to die, that is until Edmund being kindnapped by the Son of Shadows, calls on her purpose to save her friend and protect the rest of her people.
Shattered Bonds is not only about the bonds that Jane has with her people but also the bonds the Son of Darkness (SoD) has with his Brother the Son of Shadows (SoS) with the rest of his followers. Jane’s bonds are built with love and mutual respect for the most part, while the SoS’s are built with fear, pain and violence. It is interesting to see the contrast between the two.
Jane and Beast have some great moments together in Shattered bonds. Beast is a cat and has some secrets of her own that she is hiding from Jane but I think that we get to see the mutual respect between them grow all the more as they deal with the SoS, Jane’s magical cancer and coming to terms with being the Dark Queen. There are some moments with the Angel that make me wonder what Jane will be in the next books.
This was a heart wrenching and gripping book. Edmund is a character I care for a lot and to know the danger he is in and how it is not only affecting Jane but Angie, who made Edmund her Knight and shares a bond with him too. I loved seeing the Everharts, Eli, Alex and especially Bruiser surround Jane with there love in this difficult time. The kids Angie and EJ are especially cute and add some light to the dark of this.
Jane has never really wanted to be in charge and I think that Shattered Bonds did great at showing Jane just how much it costs when you abdicate responsibility. It cost her people a lot, especially when they were struggling with losing Leo already, her absence just made everything worse. I felt the worst for Bruiser who lost Leo, is trying to be patient and keep Jane alive but feels like he is losing her too and is struggling with where his new place is in the world. It was a little heart wrenching to see him put on the brave face when in truth he is a little lost.
I love where this ended. Let me rephrase that. I was ready for more, I wanted to see how everyone reacts to the new Jane and I was ready for her to really be the Dark Queen going forward. I was also ready to kick European vampire but, because there is more to be kicked to consolidate power and bring peace. But mostly I just wanted one more scene with Bruiser, I love that man and his loyalty and devotion to Jane. But alas, I will need to wait another year or so to get there, I will be ready.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC. This does not affect my rating or review.
After becoming the Dark Queen in the prior book Jane pretty much gave up all of her claims to lands and titles to go hide outside of Ashville and die. She tried to slink away alone so the people she loves don’t have he watch her go through this (silly Jane) but they found her and are trying to figure out how to save her. Jane has been spending a lot of time as Beast, since the magical cancer is only affecting her human form. It seems like Jane has kinda given up and is just waiting to die, that is until Edmund being kindnapped by the Son of Shadows, calls on her purpose to save her friend and protect the rest of her people.
Shattered Bonds is not only about the bonds that Jane has with her people but also the bonds the Son of Darkness (SoD) has with his Brother the Son of Shadows (SoS) with the rest of his followers. Jane’s bonds are built with love and mutual respect for the most part, while the SoS’s are built with fear, pain and violence. It is interesting to see the contrast between the two.
Jane and Beast have some great moments together in Shattered bonds. Beast is a cat and has some secrets of her own that she is hiding from Jane but I think that we get to see the mutual respect between them grow all the more as they deal with the SoS, Jane’s magical cancer and coming to terms with being the Dark Queen. There are some moments with the Angel that make me wonder what Jane will be in the next books.
This was a heart wrenching and gripping book. Edmund is a character I care for a lot and to know the danger he is in and how it is not only affecting Jane but Angie, who made Edmund her Knight and shares a bond with him too. I loved seeing the Everharts, Eli, Alex and especially Bruiser surround Jane with there love in this difficult time. The kids Angie and EJ are especially cute and add some light to the dark of this.
Jane has never really wanted to be in charge and I think that Shattered Bonds did great at showing Jane just how much it costs when you abdicate responsibility. It cost her people a lot, especially when they were struggling with losing Leo already, her absence just made everything worse. I felt the worst for Bruiser who lost Leo, is trying to be patient and keep Jane alive but feels like he is losing her too and is struggling with where his new place is in the world. It was a little heart wrenching to see him put on the brave face when in truth he is a little lost.
I love where this ended. Let me rephrase that. I was ready for more, I wanted to see how everyone reacts to the new Jane and I was ready for her to really be the Dark Queen going forward. I was also ready to kick European vampire but, because there is more to be kicked to consolidate power and bring peace. But mostly I just wanted one more scene with Bruiser, I love that man and his loyalty and devotion to Jane. But alas, I will need to wait another year or so to get there, I will be ready.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC. This does not affect my rating or review.
July 11, 2022
I've come to the point where I left off this series, with Shattered Bonds being a brand new read for me. Hunter had a pile of problems to deal with in this installment, including a very sick main character, a chaotic vampire political scene, some very offended arcencials, a snippy Anzu Enforcer, and the biggest, baddest villain yet. Jane is on death's door, but circumstances don't make allowances for illness. Jane is forced to rely on her team, reawaken her attention on vampire matters, and spend a lot of time in puma and half form, as Beast does not share her magical cancer.
The big, bad ugly, Shimon bar Ioudas, one of the original vampires, is known as the Flayer of Mithrans (which, in typical Jane style, becomes the FOM, something which I struggled to remember as I read). For all the build up of how powerful and immortal he was, I thought he was rather easily dealt with. But, as I mentioned, Hunter was juggling a pile of plot lines. The solution to a bunch of issues revolves around a chance discovery Janes makes while in Beast form.
If Jane is to retain her position of Dark Queen and see things run according to her values, she is going to have to return to NOLA and pick up the reins of power. Not only is Leo gone, Derek Lee has been turned vamp. He's always grumpy with Jane, so dealing with him could be entertaining. Jane and Lincoln Shaddock have a new, closer relationship and Jane is starting to realize he may have extra powers she knows little about. Gregoire has been appointed European Warlord, doing what he does best, tearing up the battlefield. The problem seems to be that no one reasonable wants to rule, only the power-hungry bad guys. (I often wonder why anyone would go into politics and it seems to apply to this fictional world as well as our real one). But Jane has come to care about the vampire world and has those protective skinwalker tendencies. How will having her at the top change vampire society?
I've got one more novel to read (True Dead) in order to be up to date for the release of Final Heir this fall. Totally doable, though I will probably put it off until August while I plough through a tall stack of library books.
The big, bad ugly, Shimon bar Ioudas, one of the original vampires, is known as the Flayer of Mithrans (which, in typical Jane style, becomes the FOM, something which I struggled to remember as I read). For all the build up of how powerful and immortal he was, I thought he was rather easily dealt with. But, as I mentioned, Hunter was juggling a pile of plot lines. The solution to a bunch of issues revolves around a chance discovery Janes makes while in Beast form.
If Jane is to retain her position of Dark Queen and see things run according to her values, she is going to have to return to NOLA and pick up the reins of power. Not only is Leo gone, Derek Lee has been turned vamp. He's always grumpy with Jane, so dealing with him could be entertaining. Jane and Lincoln Shaddock have a new, closer relationship and Jane is starting to realize he may have extra powers she knows little about. Gregoire has been appointed European Warlord, doing what he does best, tearing up the battlefield. The problem seems to be that no one reasonable wants to rule, only the power-hungry bad guys. (I often wonder why anyone would go into politics and it seems to apply to this fictional world as well as our real one). But Jane has come to care about the vampire world and has those protective skinwalker tendencies. How will having her at the top change vampire society?
I've got one more novel to read (True Dead) in order to be up to date for the release of Final Heir this fall. Totally doable, though I will probably put it off until August while I plough through a tall stack of library books.
November 15, 2019
Thirteen books *and I don't even know how many novellas* and I am still just as hooked as ever on this world and these characters. It was almost 1am when I finished last night, and reading that late when the alarm clock goes off at 4:45am is a bad decision but I couldn't put it down. I was literally glued to the ending. Also as usual.
There is nothing I can say about this series and Jane Yellowrock and Clan that I haven't said before. Jane is still an absolute badass Cherokee skinwalker with a completely gooey center for those she loves, and even those she doesn't. She unhesitatingly throws herself to all but certain death to protect her people, ever the Dark Queen. Who would have thought, way back in Skinwalker that she would be here, now?
This series is packed with characters that I genuinely love. In this story, everybody tugged on the heartstrings, absolutely everybody but man, Bruiser crushed that heart flat.
Out of all my favorite kickass heroines, with the possible exception of Ilona Andrews Kate Daniels, there is no one in fiction who deserves a peaceful, happy ending more than Jane & Beast. But as long as Faith Hunter cares to write her, I'll be sitting here, once more glued to her story.
There is nothing I can say about this series and Jane Yellowrock and Clan that I haven't said before. Jane is still an absolute badass Cherokee skinwalker with a completely gooey center for those she loves, and even those she doesn't. She unhesitatingly throws herself to all but certain death to protect her people, ever the Dark Queen. Who would have thought, way back in Skinwalker that she would be here, now?
This series is packed with characters that I genuinely love. In this story, everybody tugged on the heartstrings, absolutely everybody but man, Bruiser crushed that heart flat.
Out of all my favorite kickass heroines, with the possible exception of Ilona Andrews Kate Daniels, there is no one in fiction who deserves a peaceful, happy ending more than Jane & Beast. But as long as Faith Hunter cares to write her, I'll be sitting here, once more glued to her story.
September 19, 2019
I think this is it for me. Hunter’s stilted writing style has always been a difficult read for me; but the storyline has invariably kept my interest. After the disappointment of Dark Queen and the failure of this one to draw me in, though, I've simply lost interest. The magical aspect has gone over the top; and the series has moved in a new direction...and I believe I’m going to have to let this series go.
At least there is still Soulwood...
At least there is still Soulwood...
October 29, 2019
Review originally published at Vampire Book Club and based on a copy provided by the publisher.
When we last saw Jane Yellowrock I was kind of pissed at her. After defeating the European vampires and suffering significant losses, Jane abandons her found family and the vampires she’s supposed to protect so she can die alone in the mountains from magical cancer. But now Clan Yellowrock has regrouped, setting up shop in an Appalachian winery while they search for a cure for Jane.
But that search gets put on hold when Edmund, who’s watching over Jane’s new territory in Europe, goes missing along with some other members of her clan. Then Jane learns that the younger Son of Darkness, the brothers who created the vampire race—the older of whom Jane killed in Dark Queen—is coming for her. No matter how much Jane tries to get out of supernatural politics, the vampires keep pulling her back in.
Much of the action in Shattered Bonds is magical, taking place inside Jane’s head. This is the kind of thing that normally drives me crazy, but I’ve gotten used to Jane spending time in her Soul Home over the course of the series. I’ve also grown to love Beast and was struck by how much more sophisticated her voice has gotten. Jane and Beast are truly a team at this point and it’s fun to see them working together. But because Jane’s so introspective, I didn’t get to see as much of the supporting characters as I would have liked—Jane’s guys are really my favorite things about the series.
Shattered Bonds shows Jane in transition, though even at the end I’m not sure what she’s going to become. She’s building a new life in a new location and learning new things about her history and her role as the Dark Queen. She even has a new character to help her work through things and I’m curious about how that relationship will develop. Most of all though, I was happy to see the return of a certain old character who answered some lingering questions about Jane and Beast.
One thing Faith Hunter does well in this series is play the long game, bringing back elements from several books earlier to bite Jane in the ass. But at the end of Shattered Bonds, I don’t feel like there are many loose ends left. In fact, I can only think of one. I’m looking forward to seeing what’s next for this much-changed Jane.
When we last saw Jane Yellowrock I was kind of pissed at her. After defeating the European vampires and suffering significant losses, Jane abandons her found family and the vampires she’s supposed to protect so she can die alone in the mountains from magical cancer. But now Clan Yellowrock has regrouped, setting up shop in an Appalachian winery while they search for a cure for Jane.
But that search gets put on hold when Edmund, who’s watching over Jane’s new territory in Europe, goes missing along with some other members of her clan. Then Jane learns that the younger Son of Darkness, the brothers who created the vampire race—the older of whom Jane killed in Dark Queen—is coming for her. No matter how much Jane tries to get out of supernatural politics, the vampires keep pulling her back in.
Much of the action in Shattered Bonds is magical, taking place inside Jane’s head. This is the kind of thing that normally drives me crazy, but I’ve gotten used to Jane spending time in her Soul Home over the course of the series. I’ve also grown to love Beast and was struck by how much more sophisticated her voice has gotten. Jane and Beast are truly a team at this point and it’s fun to see them working together. But because Jane’s so introspective, I didn’t get to see as much of the supporting characters as I would have liked—Jane’s guys are really my favorite things about the series.
Shattered Bonds shows Jane in transition, though even at the end I’m not sure what she’s going to become. She’s building a new life in a new location and learning new things about her history and her role as the Dark Queen. She even has a new character to help her work through things and I’m curious about how that relationship will develop. Most of all though, I was happy to see the return of a certain old character who answered some lingering questions about Jane and Beast.
One thing Faith Hunter does well in this series is play the long game, bringing back elements from several books earlier to bite Jane in the ass. But at the end of Shattered Bonds, I don’t feel like there are many loose ends left. In fact, I can only think of one. I’m looking forward to seeing what’s next for this much-changed Jane.
November 21, 2019
I suppose I should start by saying I'm a long time fan of Faith Hunter and Jane Yellowrock, so this will be full of fangirling. I will not apologize for that. She completely deserves it.
One thing Faith Hunter does that is so very difficult for authors to get right, is she engages you immediately in her books. I don't think I've had a problem getting involved in one of her books since Skinwalker, which, being the first is often the case so I don't worry too much about it when it's at that point. And I'm so glad I didn't! This series is so full of emotions and action, well fleshed out characters and perfect world building! There's virtually nothing bad to say about this series.
Now for Shattered Bonds. Jane is in trouble. We knew this from Dark Queen. Everyone is feeling the fear of her dying. But no one more than her and Beast. They feel this fear, not out of selfish personal need to live forever, but out of love for their family, of which she considers her entire clan, and the fear that they will be harmed if she dies. She is such a wonderful character. She has it all. She's snarky, funny, loving, strong, fearless yet full of fears for others, giving, and brutal when needed. She's everything any woman would want to be, if they wanted to be a heroic character. But she also doesn't trust easily. This causes her to believe she is the only one that can save them whenever a situation arises. Because of this failing, and it is a failing, she gets herself and her clan into more trouble than they possibly would otherwise.
That being the case once again, they have trouble galore in Shattered Bonds. The SoD 2 is truly a bad guy. One that is going to prove to be her most challenging yet. Possibly even her final one. And we feel that. Throughout this book we feel that weighing on everyone; the looks from Eli, the pain emanating from Bruiser, even Beast is concerned. All of these feelings are so well delineated that we have no choice but to experience them along with everyone. I know I didn't have a choice. I spent a great deal of time crying through this book. My heart still hurts from all it was put through reading this incredible edition to an amazing series.
I don't give away spoilers, so that's pretty much all I can tell you about the book without giving things away. But I will say that this is a series I will be rereading over and over throughout whatever years I have left to me. It is one of those epic series that just hold your heart and never let go, that pull you back over and over so you can relive the joys, the pains, the loves involved in every volume written. Simply put, My God This Woman Can WRITE!!!!
I know the time is coming when this wonderful series will end. It's going to break my heart when it does, and I know I'm not alone in that. But most excellent series do end. And they end before they have a chance to become boring or repetitive or worst of all, before the author has a chance to lose interest in their own characters. We're going to get to go out loving this series to the very end, and that's a remarkable thing to accomplish. Faith Hunter is undeniably a master of her craft, and I feel so lucky to have picked up that first book and continued on, being allowed to be a part of this amazing world she created by being a devout reader. I am already deep into her next epic series, Soulwood, so I know there's still much more to come from this incredible author.
Ok, fangirling almost done. Epically done, Faith Hunter! Such Excellent work, as is always the case when I see your name on the cover. Thank you for sharing your talent with us!
One thing Faith Hunter does that is so very difficult for authors to get right, is she engages you immediately in her books. I don't think I've had a problem getting involved in one of her books since Skinwalker, which, being the first is often the case so I don't worry too much about it when it's at that point. And I'm so glad I didn't! This series is so full of emotions and action, well fleshed out characters and perfect world building! There's virtually nothing bad to say about this series.
Now for Shattered Bonds. Jane is in trouble. We knew this from Dark Queen. Everyone is feeling the fear of her dying. But no one more than her and Beast. They feel this fear, not out of selfish personal need to live forever, but out of love for their family, of which she considers her entire clan, and the fear that they will be harmed if she dies. She is such a wonderful character. She has it all. She's snarky, funny, loving, strong, fearless yet full of fears for others, giving, and brutal when needed. She's everything any woman would want to be, if they wanted to be a heroic character. But she also doesn't trust easily. This causes her to believe she is the only one that can save them whenever a situation arises. Because of this failing, and it is a failing, she gets herself and her clan into more trouble than they possibly would otherwise.
That being the case once again, they have trouble galore in Shattered Bonds. The SoD 2 is truly a bad guy. One that is going to prove to be her most challenging yet. Possibly even her final one. And we feel that. Throughout this book we feel that weighing on everyone; the looks from Eli, the pain emanating from Bruiser, even Beast is concerned. All of these feelings are so well delineated that we have no choice but to experience them along with everyone. I know I didn't have a choice. I spent a great deal of time crying through this book. My heart still hurts from all it was put through reading this incredible edition to an amazing series.
I don't give away spoilers, so that's pretty much all I can tell you about the book without giving things away. But I will say that this is a series I will be rereading over and over throughout whatever years I have left to me. It is one of those epic series that just hold your heart and never let go, that pull you back over and over so you can relive the joys, the pains, the loves involved in every volume written. Simply put, My God This Woman Can WRITE!!!!
I know the time is coming when this wonderful series will end. It's going to break my heart when it does, and I know I'm not alone in that. But most excellent series do end. And they end before they have a chance to become boring or repetitive or worst of all, before the author has a chance to lose interest in their own characters. We're going to get to go out loving this series to the very end, and that's a remarkable thing to accomplish. Faith Hunter is undeniably a master of her craft, and I feel so lucky to have picked up that first book and continued on, being allowed to be a part of this amazing world she created by being a devout reader. I am already deep into her next epic series, Soulwood, so I know there's still much more to come from this incredible author.
Ok, fangirling almost done. Epically done, Faith Hunter! Such Excellent work, as is always the case when I see your name on the cover. Thank you for sharing your talent with us!
October 29, 2019
Fan-freakin-tastic!!! I can't wait to see where Hunter takes us next but first...
This amazing addition to the Jane Yellowrock series brings Jane face to face with everything she was destined to be while she struggles to survive the havoc time walking has caused on her body.
Her friends come to rally around her but an ancient evil, the original most evil that started vampirism has left Europe to take on Jane and her friends.
What can I say, this was a single sitting read. From the moment I picked up a copy of Shattered Bonds I WAS HOOKED. Intense, fun, unexpectedly surprised and riveted are just a few words that come to mind to describe Shattered Bonds.
And, Oh MY, I can't wait to see where Faith Hunter takes us next.
I received this ARC paperback copy of Shattered Bonds from Berkley Publishing. This is my honest and voluntary review. Shattered Bonds is set for publication October 29, 2019.
My Rating: 5 stars FAVORITE
Written by: Faith Hunter
Series: Jane Yellowrock (Book 13)
Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Ace; Reissue edition (October 29, 2019)
ISBN-10: 0399587985
ISBN-13: 978-0399587986
Genre: Urban Fantasy | Paranormal Romance
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Bond...
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/shat...
Itunes: https://books.apple.com/us/book/shatt...
This amazing addition to the Jane Yellowrock series brings Jane face to face with everything she was destined to be while she struggles to survive the havoc time walking has caused on her body.
Her friends come to rally around her but an ancient evil, the original most evil that started vampirism has left Europe to take on Jane and her friends.
What can I say, this was a single sitting read. From the moment I picked up a copy of Shattered Bonds I WAS HOOKED. Intense, fun, unexpectedly surprised and riveted are just a few words that come to mind to describe Shattered Bonds.
And, Oh MY, I can't wait to see where Faith Hunter takes us next.
I received this ARC paperback copy of Shattered Bonds from Berkley Publishing. This is my honest and voluntary review. Shattered Bonds is set for publication October 29, 2019.
My Rating: 5 stars FAVORITE
Written by: Faith Hunter
Series: Jane Yellowrock (Book 13)
Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Ace; Reissue edition (October 29, 2019)
ISBN-10: 0399587985
ISBN-13: 978-0399587986
Genre: Urban Fantasy | Paranormal Romance
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Bond...
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/shat...
Itunes: https://books.apple.com/us/book/shatt...
February 11, 2020
My entire life was death and destruction. And each droplet of my future was a world of even more horrors if I didn’t fix what was happening here and now. Or if I allowed the arcenciels to go back in time and destroy the vamps at conception. Or if I allowed the war in the heavens to start. But I didn’t know how to stop any of that.
what a ride, more gory than ever.
Creo que he detectado que me ha incomodado en la serie para ponerlo en palabras, y es lo mismo que me esta pasando con Soulwood de esta autora. Me incomoda que la protagonista este dejando de ser humana-con-poderes para transformarse en para-nada-humana, en un ser que sustenta en el caso especial de Jane Yellowrock demasiados poderes destructivos y magias fuera de su control y los usa a tontas y locas como el proverbial burro tocando la flauta pero si el burro fuera en este caso un hipogrifo que conjurara sismos paratemporales. El hecho de que pase a aventurarse en territorios monstruosos me incomoda , mucho más que a los humanos espaciales que deben decidirse de dejar de ser humanos para sobrevivr en otros ambientes.
Y no creo que ahora pueda volver a ser lo que era. Esto de los Sacrificios siempre me deja muy mal sabor de boca.
RTC
what a ride, more gory than ever.
Creo que he detectado que me ha incomodado en la serie para ponerlo en palabras, y es lo mismo que me esta pasando con Soulwood de esta autora. Me incomoda que la protagonista este dejando de ser humana-con-poderes para transformarse en para-nada-humana, en un ser que sustenta en el caso especial de Jane Yellowrock demasiados poderes destructivos y magias fuera de su control y los usa a tontas y locas como el proverbial burro tocando la flauta pero si el burro fuera en este caso un hipogrifo que conjurara sismos paratemporales. El hecho de que pase a aventurarse en territorios monstruosos me incomoda , mucho más que a los humanos espaciales que deben decidirse de dejar de ser humanos para sobrevivr en otros ambientes.
Y no creo que ahora pueda volver a ser lo que era. Esto de los Sacrificios siempre me deja muy mal sabor de boca.
RTC
August 8, 2019
Shattered Bonds is a gut-wrenching, blood curdling, high speed adventure that will leave you gasping. Jane is fighting bad guys, time and her own body. She doesn’t have time for everything she needs to do. This is an emotional roller-coaster ride from the first page to the last, I LOVED IT!
October 20, 2019
I love this series, read everyone of them and pretty sure every short story, novella plus the novels but recently the multitude of plots is mind blowing. In this one we still have Jane trying to get cured, trying to kill an unkillable bad guy, trying to keep a romance alive, trying to keep a multitude of PEOPLE alive, and can't figure out if this "Dark Queen" thing is going to be a good fit since she seems to be unable to shed the responsibility.
I can't really write a long winded review of this because of so many things that I might mention could be a spoiler for one of the multitude of subplots. She is building an actual "Clan Yellowrock" and surrounded by her friends and getting very little help from some of the people she thought she might count on it is a emotional mess but as with the last few books she spends a good deal of time naval gazing but at least this time I can see a purpose to most of it. Sooner or later I hope we get a clear picture of what that angel is doing, good, bad or indifferent since that one muddles my mind.
At the end of the day you are going to love this book but the question is weather or not you are going to enjoy the journey. I almost wanted to give it 4 Stars for a couple of small things but I realized they were small things (like a more detailed epilogue but realized that might be a bad thing) So 5 Stars it is and as always can't wait for the next one.
I can't really write a long winded review of this because of so many things that I might mention could be a spoiler for one of the multitude of subplots. She is building an actual "Clan Yellowrock" and surrounded by her friends and getting very little help from some of the people she thought she might count on it is a emotional mess but as with the last few books she spends a good deal of time naval gazing but at least this time I can see a purpose to most of it. Sooner or later I hope we get a clear picture of what that angel is doing, good, bad or indifferent since that one muddles my mind.
At the end of the day you are going to love this book but the question is weather or not you are going to enjoy the journey. I almost wanted to give it 4 Stars for a couple of small things but I realized they were small things (like a more detailed epilogue but realized that might be a bad thing) So 5 Stars it is and as always can't wait for the next one.
November 2, 2019
I suspect that when the number of books in a series gets into double figures it becomes harder and harder for the author to think of new plots. The temptation is to make every new baddie more outrageously evil and every situation more precarious. If this isn’t enough then just throw in as many ridiculous complications as possible. The book has had good reviews, so it is obviously just me, but I don’t need everything to escalate with every new book.
I don’t really know what to make of this book, there were elements I really enjoyed, but occasionally I just couldn’t believe what I was reading. It might be because I come from a science background and need to find some logic behind what was happening, but some of the situations the author expected me to believe were just ridiculous. I know this is a Paranormal/Fantasy novel, but the best of these give you enough logic to allow you to suspend your disbelief.
After finishing I had no idea what rating to give, there are times when reading these books has become like watching the worse sort of Hollywood/HBO blockbuster, never mind the story just throw in as much gruesome action as you can, even if it doesn’t make sense. However there also times when it’s the old Jane and I remember why I really liked these books. If possible I would have given 2.5 stars.
I don’t really know what to make of this book, there were elements I really enjoyed, but occasionally I just couldn’t believe what I was reading. It might be because I come from a science background and need to find some logic behind what was happening, but some of the situations the author expected me to believe were just ridiculous. I know this is a Paranormal/Fantasy novel, but the best of these give you enough logic to allow you to suspend your disbelief.
After finishing I had no idea what rating to give, there are times when reading these books has become like watching the worse sort of Hollywood/HBO blockbuster, never mind the story just throw in as much gruesome action as you can, even if it doesn’t make sense. However there also times when it’s the old Jane and I remember why I really liked these books. If possible I would have given 2.5 stars.
January 6, 2020
This was a really good series. But it's almost always a bad idea to elevate a main character from "pretty good at a job" to "awesome almighty ruler of all" status. I have enjoyed it, but the series has run out of steam. I don't even know what happened in this story - lots of fighting and lots of aimless pondering. And the heroine of the book series is clearly not going to die of cancer. So every word wasted on that is not building suspense, it's just killing time while we all wait to see if anything else is going to happen. Not terrible, but I miss the more interesting earlier books.
October 30, 2019
If this book was a film, the whole thing would take place on a single boring set, where the lead actress monologues for two hours with little to nothing actually being accomplished by the end except a lot of wasted time.
October 15, 2019
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Holy crap! The depth and richness of Shattered Bonds is amazing. I've long been a fan of the Jane Yellowrock series. I loved this and was totally engrossed even when exhausted. I highly recommend this book and the series, which does need to be read in order (like most urban fantasy). I had some feelings about not liking how out of control things felt and was as unhappy as Eli with Jane striking out on her own to handle some things. BUT with some thought, I know how realistic it is the way it all happened.
I may want everything to be planned and smart but that's not life, not magic. Plus that story would be a little too routine and boring. Nothing here is boring - terrifying, horrifying and moving faster than a mind can grasp, but not boring. So the characters have to be their imperfect, beloved selves, doing things which are not smart but must be done to save lives. Jane spends some time hibernating, taking a sort of time out from the world. She takes herself out of the world to grieve and heal after the previous events.
But the world hasn't stopped, and a new threat comes to hurt everyone and take everything dear to Jane. She is forced to pull herself together and fight for her people. Jane / Beast must take control, and worry about their future afterward. I was a little sad at how some of those who should be her allies didn't trust her enough or help her. Jane, as always, risks everything to save those she loves, and even those who didn't help her.
Excerpt:
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Holy crap! The depth and richness of Shattered Bonds is amazing. I've long been a fan of the Jane Yellowrock series. I loved this and was totally engrossed even when exhausted. I highly recommend this book and the series, which does need to be read in order (like most urban fantasy). I had some feelings about not liking how out of control things felt and was as unhappy as Eli with Jane striking out on her own to handle some things. BUT with some thought, I know how realistic it is the way it all happened.
I may want everything to be planned and smart but that's not life, not magic. Plus that story would be a little too routine and boring. Nothing here is boring - terrifying, horrifying and moving faster than a mind can grasp, but not boring. So the characters have to be their imperfect, beloved selves, doing things which are not smart but must be done to save lives. Jane spends some time hibernating, taking a sort of time out from the world. She takes herself out of the world to grieve and heal after the previous events.
But the world hasn't stopped, and a new threat comes to hurt everyone and take everything dear to Jane. She is forced to pull herself together and fight for her people. Jane / Beast must take control, and worry about their future afterward. I was a little sad at how some of those who should be her allies didn't trust her enough or help her. Jane, as always, risks everything to save those she loves, and even those who didn't help her.
Excerpt:
Beast tightened crouch, pulling all body onto paws, shoulders high. Leaped. Shoved off with back legs. Stretched out front legs. Claws extending. Falling. Thick tail rotated for balance. Scent of buck rushed up. Heavy. Pungent.
Deer flinched. Hooves left ground. Buck leaped high. Away from other deer. Beast snarled. Not expecting jump. Whipped tail, swiveling body. Reaching.
Buck splashed into deep water. Beast missed.
Buck leaped again. Splashed hard. Hooves driving up far bank. White tail held high.
Beast fell.
Landed half in water.
Front paws missed rock just under surface.
Paws, legs, shoulders, head slapped into water. And under it. Nose flaps closed, but not before water went up nose.
Front feet hit bottom, back feet hit bank.
Wrenched body back. Rear paws and claws dug deep into half-frozen muddy bank. Body twisted. Out of water. Blew water out of nose in loud snort. Spat and shook. Loose coat slid around muscular body. Flinging water droplets into snow. Blowing.
Beast whirled, searching for two smaller deer. They had vanished. Beast snarled at world. Screamed. Big deer must have heard or smelled Beast.
I hunger! Screamed again, sound echoing in hills. Chuffed in anger. Pounced up and down, paws sinking into half frozen mud.
Deer did not come back. Prey was smart.
November 3, 2019
One thing about this book after reading several subpar paranormal books is that the storyline was well thought out without holes. Also, no graphic sex scenes (gratuitous or not). Wasn’t needed at all.
My only problem with this series as a hole is that I’m not a Jane or Beast fan. Which goes to show as a loyal reader of this series as I am, I don’t need to like the main characters. I’m a fan of the world building and interesting plot lines.
I’m also not a fan of Bruiser. And maybe I could have been if what some of what is revealed in this installment had come earlier. Unfortunately it feels like an afterthought to explain away why Jane was cool with his actions yet was such a bitch about Rick’s. Sorry, I’ll never get over that.
Thankfully Rick was given a second life in the other series.
But the whole couple thing between Jane and Bruiser gets a huge eye roll for me. I’d hoped he die and Jane find harmony with someone who hasn’t hurt her. Maybe then I could grow to like her.
Oh well. Overall a good installment.
My only problem with this series as a hole is that I’m not a Jane or Beast fan. Which goes to show as a loyal reader of this series as I am, I don’t need to like the main characters. I’m a fan of the world building and interesting plot lines.
I’m also not a fan of Bruiser. And maybe I could have been if what some of what is revealed in this installment had come earlier. Unfortunately it feels like an afterthought to explain away why Jane was cool with his actions yet was such a bitch about Rick’s. Sorry, I’ll never get over that.
Thankfully Rick was given a second life in the other series.
But the whole couple thing between Jane and Bruiser gets a huge eye roll for me. I’d hoped he die and Jane find harmony with someone who hasn’t hurt her. Maybe then I could grow to like her.
Oh well. Overall a good installment.
December 18, 2019
3.5 stars
After the disappointment of the previous book, I was hesitant to read this one. Diving in, I found my fears both well-founded...and not.
This book suffered from the same meandering navel-gazing as the last one, with a lot of pondering, anticipation, and little action. Once again, Jane was mostly passive, reacting to circumstances (often in a seat-of-the-pants manner) rather than being proactive. It was convenient that her enemies gave her a lot of down time to consider the possibilities while doing little about them.
And yet, Jane actually did make some personal progress in all that reflection, a welcome bit of movement in the series. The last part of the story definitely had a lot of action, leaving us with some intriguing possibilities for future stories. So while the bulk of the book alternately frustrated and bored me, I found enough wheat in the chaff to entice me to continue and see where Jane and her friends will go from here.
After the disappointment of the previous book, I was hesitant to read this one. Diving in, I found my fears both well-founded...and not.
This book suffered from the same meandering navel-gazing as the last one, with a lot of pondering, anticipation, and little action. Once again, Jane was mostly passive, reacting to circumstances (often in a seat-of-the-pants manner) rather than being proactive. It was convenient that her enemies gave her a lot of down time to consider the possibilities while doing little about them.
And yet, Jane actually did make some personal progress in all that reflection, a welcome bit of movement in the series. The last part of the story definitely had a lot of action, leaving us with some intriguing possibilities for future stories. So while the bulk of the book alternately frustrated and bored me, I found enough wheat in the chaff to entice me to continue and see where Jane and her friends will go from here.
November 7, 2019
A powerful installment of the Jane Yellowrock series. There was a lot of emotion in this one and a sense of closure. An enemy that seemed to be coming for a long time is confronted and great changes take place. You get a sense that Jane will be heading in a new direction after this.
It’ll be interesting to see where Faith Hunter decides to take us next.
It’ll be interesting to see where Faith Hunter decides to take us next.
November 23, 2019
Eh didn't like this one so much, the I'm sick yadayada has gotten old quickly. Hopefully we can back to some more decent story lines and stay away from the whole my DNA is fracturing baloney.
Just felt like a filler between main books to wrap up some boring story lines (the magical cancer) and frankly the SOD story line was very anti climactic.
Just felt like a filler between main books to wrap up some boring story lines (the magical cancer) and frankly the SOD story line was very anti climactic.
October 30, 2019
I loved it! So much. Do we really have to wait for the next one?! 😫😫
November 1, 2019
This book was a big game changer for Jane in many ways.
Jane starts out the book facing her mortality. Sure she has always faced death before when fighting, but this magical cancer is different, it’s a slow death. The one bright side is that Jane got to find out how much she means to everyone she has in her life. They all were there for her, helping in anyway they could, even as it hurt them to see Jane hurting. Vampires are a tricky bunch and the bunch that Jane has surrounded herself with even more so. I loved how she found out they didn’t listen to her letter abdicating, instead they fought in her name to keep things the way they were. Sadly what they were fighting against didn’t stay in Europe, but came in a big way for Jane. What made it worse was that they didn’t have up to date info and came for Jane in NOLA, not at her new wine estate. This caused issues as Jane’s crew was trying to protect her and didn’t let her know, so when whey they showed up at the wine estate it was out of the blue and Jane had to fight on 2 fronts.
Jane and clan Yellowrock stepped up, did what they could, but so often they were a step behind. This caused big issues when someone precious to Jane was taken, the threat hitting them all so very hard. Jane being Jane blamed herself and left on what she thought was a suicide mission, but what did she care…she was dying anyway so she might as well save a precious person.
It was here that things got sticky, odd things happened, so many things clicked in Jane’s mind, she could see where things happened in the past to lead her to where she was to take care of things once and for all. Heck even her cancer seemed like it was a part of this, that it was meant to happen to teach her a lesson.
As the book closed I had hope for Jane, that for the first time she is happy with who she is, happy with the people she has surrounded herself with and ready to embrace her roll as the Dark Queen.
Jane starts out the book facing her mortality. Sure she has always faced death before when fighting, but this magical cancer is different, it’s a slow death. The one bright side is that Jane got to find out how much she means to everyone she has in her life. They all were there for her, helping in anyway they could, even as it hurt them to see Jane hurting. Vampires are a tricky bunch and the bunch that Jane has surrounded herself with even more so. I loved how she found out they didn’t listen to her letter abdicating, instead they fought in her name to keep things the way they were. Sadly what they were fighting against didn’t stay in Europe, but came in a big way for Jane. What made it worse was that they didn’t have up to date info and came for Jane in NOLA, not at her new wine estate. This caused issues as Jane’s crew was trying to protect her and didn’t let her know, so when whey they showed up at the wine estate it was out of the blue and Jane had to fight on 2 fronts.
Jane and clan Yellowrock stepped up, did what they could, but so often they were a step behind. This caused big issues when someone precious to Jane was taken, the threat hitting them all so very hard. Jane being Jane blamed herself and left on what she thought was a suicide mission, but what did she care…she was dying anyway so she might as well save a precious person.
It was here that things got sticky, odd things happened, so many things clicked in Jane’s mind, she could see where things happened in the past to lead her to where she was to take care of things once and for all. Heck even her cancer seemed like it was a part of this, that it was meant to happen to teach her a lesson.
As the book closed I had hope for Jane, that for the first time she is happy with who she is, happy with the people she has surrounded herself with and ready to embrace her roll as the Dark Queen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2020
Read while I was in the USA. Ok read, but not my favourite in the series. Felt like a transition book, sorting out new lines of adventure.
November 17, 2019
At the end of Dark Queen Jane left New Orleans riddled with cancer and dying. As her human body was dying she was spending more and more time in beast form, the mountain lion she shares both body and soul with.
But even as she faces death, the troubles of the world continue. A new menacing threat has arrived and is attacking her people. And even though she can barely walk she must fight to protect those she loves.
Shattered Bonds is great. With any long-running series you will get hits and misses. Not all of the books are going to work, some of them will feel like a victory lap, some will just fall flat. But Shattered Bonds is definitely one of the hits. I'm not sure where the series can go from here, there will probably be a shark jumping moment at some point. I hope it never comes but it probably will.
That said, for now everything is still working and the books are still entertaining.
But even as she faces death, the troubles of the world continue. A new menacing threat has arrived and is attacking her people. And even though she can barely walk she must fight to protect those she loves.
Shattered Bonds is great. With any long-running series you will get hits and misses. Not all of the books are going to work, some of them will feel like a victory lap, some will just fall flat. But Shattered Bonds is definitely one of the hits. I'm not sure where the series can go from here, there will probably be a shark jumping moment at some point. I hope it never comes but it probably will.
That said, for now everything is still working and the books are still entertaining.
October 25, 2019
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
Shattered Bonds, by author Faith Hunter, is the Thirteenth installment in the authors Jane Yellowrock series. Jane is in a state of stasis as the story opens. She's abdicated all of her responsibilities of being the Dark Queen and Emperor of the Eurovamps. She's made no moves to take any territory or created her own army. She's told Edmund and Gregoire to take care of anything that might come up. After all, Jane's human body is withering away and dying of a magically induced cancer which seems to have no cure. The best she can do is remain in her beast form, or her half form which she easily can do.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
Shattered Bonds, by author Faith Hunter, is the Thirteenth installment in the authors Jane Yellowrock series. Jane is in a state of stasis as the story opens. She's abdicated all of her responsibilities of being the Dark Queen and Emperor of the Eurovamps. She's made no moves to take any territory or created her own army. She's told Edmund and Gregoire to take care of anything that might come up. After all, Jane's human body is withering away and dying of a magically induced cancer which seems to have no cure. The best she can do is remain in her beast form, or her half form which she easily can do.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
December 27, 2019
Oh my freakin' gosh, I never want this series to end!
Faith Hunter is simply a genius of an author. I was so mesmerized with this book that I reached the end without even realizing I was anywhere near it. And, as always, Khristine Hvam is a master at narration.
I will continue to recommend this amazing series more than other I've read.
Faith Hunter is simply a genius of an author. I was so mesmerized with this book that I reached the end without even realizing I was anywhere near it. And, as always, Khristine Hvam is a master at narration.
I will continue to recommend this amazing series more than other I've read.
July 19, 2021
I received a free copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
5 Long-Anticipated Stars
Spoiler-Free Review to my best abilities.
After how Dark Queen left readers up in the air as to what happened to a beloved character and as to how Jane was handling her new situation, I couldn't wait to get my hands on Shattered Bonds. Seriously, I was pestery and stalking a release date, so eager to see what happens next.
It goes without saying, Shattered Bonds cannot be read as a standalone or out of series order. A few of the books in the middle of the pack could be read or missed without confusion, but this novel reads more like a continuation.
Jane is in hiding, mourning heavy losses, while suffering from a magical form of cancer growing in her center. Escaping her duty in New Orleans because the grief is heavy, she's created a new base of operation just outside of Asheville in the mountains, where she purchased an inn to accommodate her people. A few months have passed since the conclusion of Dark Queen, and it's all about to hit the fan.
The Dark Queen hasn't picked up her mantle, effectively destroying her power base, while she mourns and suffers. Several of her people go missing, her primo is being tortured, all because the SOD has a baby brother that she never knew existed, and he's out for blood, looking for his brother/the return of whatever is left of the SOD, after Brut tore it bit from bit.
The majority of the novel is Jane suffering from cancer, terrified over what that means in the long-run. Able to not deteriorate when shaped as Beast or when in half-form. Jane as Jane is dying by the second. Rallying the troops, Jane puts on her crown and gets down to business, attempting to protect her people from the new baddie invading their territory.
What is so different this time around, Jane isn't necessarily in charge. In the past, even when she wasn't in charge, she fought to take control. During Shattered Bonds, Jane learns to delegate, to trust and respect her people to do what needs to be done, so she can take care of herself and save what little strength she has left. It's a new side of Jane- a vulnerable side.
I planned on reading this novel slowly, simply because it was such a long wait from the previous installment. I wanted to savor it. However, no matter how much I love the characters, maybe because of that actually, I had a hard time reading. I struggled with the content, watching Jane suffer, finding only small moments of ironic humor from beast and the deep connection Jane has with her family. There were often so many characters within a scene, it got chaotic and confusing for me to read and enjoy. The major issue was the stress I was feeling while reading a character suffer.
Dark. Much darker than the previous books.
Here is where I refuse to provide spoilers, because it's yet another stellar ending, taking the series in a new direction, one I cannot wait to experience.
Highly recommend for series fans and fans of the author. For those looking for a solid urban fantasy series where you can trust the author to stay true to the story and characters she's written, go back to the beginning and start with Skinwalker (I've reread it 4 times, just as entertaining each time as the last)
5 Long-Anticipated Stars
Spoiler-Free Review to my best abilities.
After how Dark Queen left readers up in the air as to what happened to a beloved character and as to how Jane was handling her new situation, I couldn't wait to get my hands on Shattered Bonds. Seriously, I was pestery and stalking a release date, so eager to see what happens next.
It goes without saying, Shattered Bonds cannot be read as a standalone or out of series order. A few of the books in the middle of the pack could be read or missed without confusion, but this novel reads more like a continuation.
Jane is in hiding, mourning heavy losses, while suffering from a magical form of cancer growing in her center. Escaping her duty in New Orleans because the grief is heavy, she's created a new base of operation just outside of Asheville in the mountains, where she purchased an inn to accommodate her people. A few months have passed since the conclusion of Dark Queen, and it's all about to hit the fan.
The Dark Queen hasn't picked up her mantle, effectively destroying her power base, while she mourns and suffers. Several of her people go missing, her primo is being tortured, all because the SOD has a baby brother that she never knew existed, and he's out for blood, looking for his brother/the return of whatever is left of the SOD, after Brut tore it bit from bit.
The majority of the novel is Jane suffering from cancer, terrified over what that means in the long-run. Able to not deteriorate when shaped as Beast or when in half-form. Jane as Jane is dying by the second. Rallying the troops, Jane puts on her crown and gets down to business, attempting to protect her people from the new baddie invading their territory.
What is so different this time around, Jane isn't necessarily in charge. In the past, even when she wasn't in charge, she fought to take control. During Shattered Bonds, Jane learns to delegate, to trust and respect her people to do what needs to be done, so she can take care of herself and save what little strength she has left. It's a new side of Jane- a vulnerable side.
I planned on reading this novel slowly, simply because it was such a long wait from the previous installment. I wanted to savor it. However, no matter how much I love the characters, maybe because of that actually, I had a hard time reading. I struggled with the content, watching Jane suffer, finding only small moments of ironic humor from beast and the deep connection Jane has with her family. There were often so many characters within a scene, it got chaotic and confusing for me to read and enjoy. The major issue was the stress I was feeling while reading a character suffer.
Dark. Much darker than the previous books.
Here is where I refuse to provide spoilers, because it's yet another stellar ending, taking the series in a new direction, one I cannot wait to experience.
Highly recommend for series fans and fans of the author. For those looking for a solid urban fantasy series where you can trust the author to stay true to the story and characters she's written, go back to the beginning and start with Skinwalker (I've reread it 4 times, just as entertaining each time as the last)
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