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San Amaro Investigations #2
The Oak Wood Throne
A new case won't solve Parker's old problems...
Parker Ferro needs a vacation. His boyfriend is MIA on a high profile murder investigation, the fae courts have him on call at all hours, and he’s still cleaning up the mess from his last big case. Of course that’s nothing compared to the demands of the debt he owes the spirit of San Amaro.
So when a wealthy new client contacts him to locate a stolen a fae artifact, Parker’s hoping for a simple job. That the artifact in question looks eerily similar to the one that got him involved with a notorious criminal and almost ruined his life last year has no bearing on the decision, right? Not to mention the thief’s ability to enter high security areas without a trace and a few very suspicious deaths.
As his life continues to spiral out of control, Parker has to juggle what’s most important to him: his relationship, his need for revenge or his life. Then again, no one said becoming the new Windrose would be easy.
Parker Ferro needs a vacation. His boyfriend is MIA on a high profile murder investigation, the fae courts have him on call at all hours, and he’s still cleaning up the mess from his last big case. Of course that’s nothing compared to the demands of the debt he owes the spirit of San Amaro.
So when a wealthy new client contacts him to locate a stolen a fae artifact, Parker’s hoping for a simple job. That the artifact in question looks eerily similar to the one that got him involved with a notorious criminal and almost ruined his life last year has no bearing on the decision, right? Not to mention the thief’s ability to enter high security areas without a trace and a few very suspicious deaths.
As his life continues to spiral out of control, Parker has to juggle what’s most important to him: his relationship, his need for revenge or his life. Then again, no one said becoming the new Windrose would be easy.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2021
219 people are currently reading
380 people want to read
About the author
Kai Butler
25 books550 followersKai has been reading and writing romance novels since she was a teenager. She lives in California with her two children and her very supportive husband.
She writes M/M romance with an emphasis on HEAs and all the feels. Her current series are San Amaro Investigations and the Imperial Space Regency Novels. She likes dashing heroes and couples with banter.
She writes M/M romance with an emphasis on HEAs and all the feels. Her current series are San Amaro Investigations and the Imperial Space Regency Novels. She likes dashing heroes and couples with banter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
April 10, 2022
Audiobook: ***ALL THE STARS!!!!***
Slowly but surely I'm out of superlatives for Greg Tremblay... He brought this book to life and damn... how many different voices can one man do??? Well, so long as it's him, A LOT apparently.
Story: ***4+ Stars***
Okay, I'm the first to admit that I didn't understand half of what was going on... There was like a gazillion of different threads here, but somehow the author once again managed to bring them together nicely. Don't ask me how, but somehow it all made sense eventually. LOL.
And I want a not-a-cat for myself! Although, come to think of it... With my cat chasing its tail like an imp, its inner demon is showing quite often, so maybe I already have one. ;-)
Slowly but surely I'm out of superlatives for Greg Tremblay... He brought this book to life and damn... how many different voices can one man do??? Well, so long as it's him, A LOT apparently.
Story: ***4+ Stars***
Okay, I'm the first to admit that I didn't understand half of what was going on... There was like a gazillion of different threads here, but somehow the author once again managed to bring them together nicely. Don't ask me how, but somehow it all made sense eventually. LOL.
And I want a not-a-cat for myself! Although, come to think of it... With my cat chasing its tail like an imp, its inner demon is showing quite often, so maybe I already have one. ;-)
September 16, 2023
Wow! 😲
🤯 So much happened in this book, and there’s still so much left to sort out! This book… this whole series…. Is absolutely amazing! I love this so much! If you love magic and fantasy then read this series! Highest possible recommendation! All the stars! 🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩
🤯 So much happened in this book, and there’s still so much left to sort out! This book… this whole series…. Is absolutely amazing! I love this so much! If you love magic and fantasy then read this series! Highest possible recommendation! All the stars! 🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩
April 28, 2022
Somehow Parker and Nick have grown on me.
While still not heavy on romance, I got a much stronger sense of their relationship in book 2 of the series. And I really liked it.
Just like the previous book, 'The Oak Wood Throne' bristles with action, numerous plot strands and plenty of characters, and yes, the thought “WTH is happening now” was on my lips on multiple occasions. Some things my brain simply did not compute, as explanations get very … complex, if I can put it like that.
I am actually surprised that I really enjoyed this, no matter what. Parker is hugely sympathetic and capable, even though he doubts his own value constantly. Nick is swoony and a dreamy guy from top to toe and seeing him vulnerable made him even more attractive.
I liked the humour with snarky references to a lot of present day ‘stuff’, and ‘not-a-cat’ is definitely a fun addition to the regular cast. It has also become very clear that there is an arching plotline that deals with the mystery who Parker is and what he can do which is rather intriguing.
Loved the imagination and the inventive magic.
Off to read book 3!
While still not heavy on romance, I got a much stronger sense of their relationship in book 2 of the series. And I really liked it.
Just like the previous book, 'The Oak Wood Throne' bristles with action, numerous plot strands and plenty of characters, and yes, the thought “WTH is happening now” was on my lips on multiple occasions. Some things my brain simply did not compute, as explanations get very … complex, if I can put it like that.
I am actually surprised that I really enjoyed this, no matter what. Parker is hugely sympathetic and capable, even though he doubts his own value constantly. Nick is swoony and a dreamy guy from top to toe and seeing him vulnerable made him even more attractive.
I liked the humour with snarky references to a lot of present day ‘stuff’, and ‘not-a-cat’ is definitely a fun addition to the regular cast. It has also become very clear that there is an arching plotline that deals with the mystery who Parker is and what he can do which is rather intriguing.
Loved the imagination and the inventive magic.
Off to read book 3!
August 13, 2025
The second book in San Amaro Investigations series gives us more of Parker’s shenanigans and thrilling adventures. With the San Amaro’s spirit demanding his debt, a not-a-cat demon to watch out for, a fae who might or might not want to decapitate him, and more fae court antics, Parker soon finds himself out of his depth.
I love that this volume brings so many new things on the table. Parker is learning and growing as the Windrose. His relationship with Nick is also tested and brought to a new level. We gradually learn more about the fae and their history. And as usual, the book ends with more surprises.
I love that this volume brings so many new things on the table. Parker is learning and growing as the Windrose. His relationship with Nick is also tested and brought to a new level. We gradually learn more about the fae and their history. And as usual, the book ends with more surprises.
July 8, 2021
Quick summary: Overwhelmed by too many plot threads, which were difficult to track. It was a stumbling block to my enjoyment of the story. Too many simultaneous events. No strong central thread like the first book. I think a good editor could have reined in the author’s occasionally frenetic, sometimes confusing, style.
That said, the last 20% of the book was one hell of a roller coaster ride. Strong ending that made me look forward to the next book in the series.
That said, the last 20% of the book was one hell of a roller coaster ride. Strong ending that made me look forward to the next book in the series.
November 29, 2024
Story 3.9 Stars
Audio 4.5 Stars
"The Oak Wood Throne" being the third installment of the San Amaro Investigations-Series has mostly kept the promises that the first book and the 3 Shorts that are set before this story have made. There was occasionally a moment were I felt left out, like I had missed a book and I even felt compelled to check that i was really reading the second book. Not only is this clearly set some months after the first novel and the short "a belated burial" but it seemed to refer to happenings that I know nothing of. In addition to that I had apparently misunderstood the blurb and was expecting Nick to go missing, maybe be kidnapped or so and that never happened so I felt a bit confused at times.
But as to the criminal plot - a wealthy man hires Parker to retrieve a stolen fae relict for him and the voice of the city of San Amaro is waiting for him to restore his missing half. Parker and Nick struggle with a short episode of personal misunderstanding and Parkers feelings of being not good enough - for both Nick and also for the job of windrose. I am generally not a great fan of the "I'm not worthy"-trope with exceptions being made if the cause is made very plausible which it is not here. BUT. But the short lapse into cliché doesn't feel major to the plot here - especially as it is overcome finally.
Altogether I think this book could have been more, but it was still pretty good and entertaining.
The Audio was again narrated by Greg Tremblay who did a very good job of it
Audio 4.5 Stars
"The Oak Wood Throne" being the third installment of the San Amaro Investigations-Series has mostly kept the promises that the first book and the 3 Shorts that are set before this story have made. There was occasionally a moment were I felt left out, like I had missed a book and I even felt compelled to check that i was really reading the second book. Not only is this clearly set some months after the first novel and the short "a belated burial" but it seemed to refer to happenings that I know nothing of. In addition to that I had apparently misunderstood the blurb and was expecting Nick to go missing, maybe be kidnapped or so and that never happened so I felt a bit confused at times.
But as to the criminal plot - a wealthy man hires Parker to retrieve a stolen fae relict for him and the voice of the city of San Amaro is waiting for him to restore his missing half. Parker and Nick struggle with a short episode of personal misunderstanding and Parkers feelings of being not good enough - for both Nick and also for the job of windrose. I am generally not a great fan of the "I'm not worthy"-trope with exceptions being made if the cause is made very plausible which it is not here. BUT. But the short lapse into cliché doesn't feel major to the plot here - especially as it is overcome finally.
Altogether I think this book could have been more, but it was still pretty good and entertaining.
The Audio was again narrated by Greg Tremblay who did a very good job of it
October 9, 2023
3.5 rounded up!
Though they had some trouble in paradise and ILYs have finally been exchanged, they just felt like a married couple who made up after some squabble. I'm not quite satisfied with how their relationship has been on the backburner most of the time but this is the second book, excluding the novellas, so I guess I should've expected it already.
So, that said, still a good rollercoaster of adventure and the outcome though a little underwhelming was a good one. It was trouble after trouble and Parker, the train wreck that he was, succeeded in all of them with a few more troubles borrowed to be examined later. His origin was also unfolding as he grew on his role as the Windrose. There was a time halfway where I got lost while reading because of all the chaos and interconnected problems he's been solving simultaneously. So much story and action too unpack that I had to reread some parts twice because of how convoluted it became.
Hopefully, the next book won't be as confusing since Parker still has so much unresolved issues to fix.
Though they had some trouble in paradise and ILYs have finally been exchanged, they just felt like a married couple who made up after some squabble. I'm not quite satisfied with how their relationship has been on the backburner most of the time but this is the second book, excluding the novellas, so I guess I should've expected it already.
So, that said, still a good rollercoaster of adventure and the outcome though a little underwhelming was a good one. It was trouble after trouble and Parker, the train wreck that he was, succeeded in all of them with a few more troubles borrowed to be examined later. His origin was also unfolding as he grew on his role as the Windrose. There was a time halfway where I got lost while reading because of all the chaos and interconnected problems he's been solving simultaneously. So much story and action too unpack that I had to reread some parts twice because of how convoluted it became.
Hopefully, the next book won't be as confusing since Parker still has so much unresolved issues to fix.
April 5, 2024
An absolute blast of an urban fantasy story with so much happening at all times.
Still super light on the romance - so much so that I resent this being labeled a romance. The lack of communication and lack of page time between Parker and Nick really make the relationship feel meh. But I am absolutely enjoying the chaos of Parker’s life and will be continuing the series!
Still super light on the romance - so much so that I resent this being labeled a romance. The lack of communication and lack of page time between Parker and Nick really make the relationship feel meh. But I am absolutely enjoying the chaos of Parker’s life and will be continuing the series!
May 1, 2023
Enjoyable continuation of the series with the addition of an adorable not-a-cat! I liked the continuation of the relationship (though I could have used a bit more on the romance side) and the plot and world-building continue to be engaging.
October 3, 2024
Somehow I enjoy this volume less than the first one. Probably because there is so much going on at the same time it starts to get on my nerves. Or probably Parker Ferro is not as funny as he was before. Or maybe it’s me going through another book slump.
Whatever the reasons are, I wish I could love this book better. It’s still a good series, Parker is one of my most favorite characters ever. And I’m still jumping on the next book with high hopes.
Whatever the reasons are, I wish I could love this book better. It’s still a good series, Parker is one of my most favorite characters ever. And I’m still jumping on the next book with high hopes.
October 28, 2023
After reading the two prequel novellas, the relationship between Parker and Nick makes so much sense ❤️ I love them, it feels like nothing could break them apart even though they're not together for that long. If there is relationship angst in the other books I'm gonna cry/scream/write a strongly-worded letter (even though my inner drama queen will be itching for some... you know... drama).
I'm so glad I picked the series up, it's so damn good. The writing is great, the pacing keeps me hooked, and I'm absolutely in love with Parker, our sassy cunning fae main character. He's chaos incarnate and honestly, the plot is like his sibling because to me it's chaotic and I'm left confused and scrambling to keep up, though in an entertaining way. I feel like so much is happening at the same time and it's all connected somehow and I don't see it (yet, I hope).
Shout-out to the saber-toothed demon kitten, I adored every scene she's in! Animal/creature companion is one of my absolute faves.
Also, wtf is with that cliffhanger???
I'm so glad I picked the series up, it's so damn good. The writing is great, the pacing keeps me hooked, and I'm absolutely in love with Parker, our sassy cunning fae main character. He's chaos incarnate and honestly, the plot is like his sibling because to me it's chaotic and I'm left confused and scrambling to keep up, though in an entertaining way. I feel like so much is happening at the same time and it's all connected somehow and I don't see it (yet, I hope).
Shout-out to the saber-toothed demon kitten, I adored every scene she's in! Animal/creature companion is one of my absolute faves.
Also, wtf is with that cliffhanger???
September 9, 2021
3.5 stars
I'm enjoying this urban fantasy series about a Fae private eye and an alchemist police officer as they work together to solve various supernatural crimes. Parker's magic is especially interesting to me (he talks to and works with plants, trees, water etc). It's different and unique and I like all of the characters. Their romance is not the main focus of the stories but it's present and they're a good couple (no drama). If you like paranormal and/or UF I think you should check it out. (it's on kindle unlimited if you have that)
I'm enjoying this urban fantasy series about a Fae private eye and an alchemist police officer as they work together to solve various supernatural crimes. Parker's magic is especially interesting to me (he talks to and works with plants, trees, water etc). It's different and unique and I like all of the characters. Their romance is not the main focus of the stories but it's present and they're a good couple (no drama). If you like paranormal and/or UF I think you should check it out. (it's on kindle unlimited if you have that)
October 23, 2022
3.95 stars?? I still really liked it, just not as much as the first
November 5, 2022
What a wonderful sequel.
Gah, I can already tell I'm going to become very, very obsessed by this series.
"The Oak Wood Throne" is as gorgeously vivid as it's predecessor, but it's even more creative, action-packed and rich, absolutely brimming with magic and wonderfully flawed characters. I adored it, start to finish.
Kai Butler manages to weave a story that kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time, and I managed to devour it in two days, even though it's a fairly chunky book.
The mystery and investigation at the heart of this book was truly unforgettable, and totally fascinating: fae artifacts, broken contracts, new and scary powers and ancient, angry spirits.. I really loved it, and now I'm even more curious to see what will happen next.
I also LOVED the new additions to the cast of characters: Sugar, the not-a-cat demon, Talon... Plus, we got to see a bit more of Laurel and Shannon, Acacia and Thistle and the whole lot of the fae monarchs, who are both scarily dangerous and endlessly hilarious.
I also adored the progress we get to witness in Parker and Nick's relationship: there's a smidge of angst and misunderstandings, and I really appreciated getting to see them work through their problems and insecurities. I also LOVED getting to see a new side of Parker's personality, i.e. his self-destructive tendencies. Reckless, trouble-magnets, I-don't-deserve-to-be-loved, quasi-suicidal leads are my absolute weakness: Parker's got some serious issues to work through. I can't wait to see Nick trying to get through to him.
Nick too, is depicted in a much more vivid way and Kai Butler shows us sides of him we didn't get to see previously: his insecurity and his power-hungry greed, for example.
I'm excited to see what will happen next with these two fabulous leads, and their found family of misfits.
Gah, I can already tell I'm going to become very, very obsessed by this series.
"The Oak Wood Throne" is as gorgeously vivid as it's predecessor, but it's even more creative, action-packed and rich, absolutely brimming with magic and wonderfully flawed characters. I adored it, start to finish.
Kai Butler manages to weave a story that kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time, and I managed to devour it in two days, even though it's a fairly chunky book.
The mystery and investigation at the heart of this book was truly unforgettable, and totally fascinating: fae artifacts, broken contracts, new and scary powers and ancient, angry spirits.. I really loved it, and now I'm even more curious to see what will happen next.
I also LOVED the new additions to the cast of characters: Sugar, the not-a-cat demon, Talon... Plus, we got to see a bit more of Laurel and Shannon, Acacia and Thistle and the whole lot of the fae monarchs, who are both scarily dangerous and endlessly hilarious.
I also adored the progress we get to witness in Parker and Nick's relationship: there's a smidge of angst and misunderstandings, and I really appreciated getting to see them work through their problems and insecurities. I also LOVED getting to see a new side of Parker's personality, i.e. his self-destructive tendencies. Reckless, trouble-magnets, I-don't-deserve-to-be-loved, quasi-suicidal leads are my absolute weakness: Parker's got some serious issues to work through. I can't wait to see Nick trying to get through to him.
Nick too, is depicted in a much more vivid way and Kai Butler shows us sides of him we didn't get to see previously: his insecurity and his power-hungry greed, for example.
I'm excited to see what will happen next with these two fabulous leads, and their found family of misfits.
September 29, 2021
✮4.5 Stars✮
💗
December 2, 2025
Dans la lignée du tome précédent, qu'il vaut mieux avoir lu pour appréhender cet univers assez complexe mais tellement addictif, nous retrouvons donc Parker et Nick, essayant de faire vivre leur relation tout en poursuivant leurs activités chronophages.
Les deux hommes vont devoir jongler entre une enquête qui implique la possibilité de passer outre des barrières magiques, des démons, une voix qui parle à Parker, la politique des cours faes, le job de rose des vents pas totalement assumé, un pas-chat (je veux le même), l'adoption d'un succube, les rendez-vous amoureux loupés, des artefacts aux pouvoirs mystérieux, l'Arbre-monde, Silverwood qui vit sa vie, Javor et son cadeau pas facile à accepter...
Ajouter bien sûr à cela les insécurités de Parker et la famille de Nick (qui ne va pas tarder, je pense, à venir causer des problèmes).
Mais, heureusement, l'adversité rend les deux hommes encore plus proches, encore plus complices, et j'ai adoré les voir autant complémentaires, même si Parker a une fâcheuse tendance à vouloir faire cavalier seul. Leur relation est belle, elle se consolide avec le temps, se fortifie face aux batailles menées, face aux dangers affrontés ensemble.
Ce tome confirme mon coup de cœur pour cette saga d'urban fantasy démarrée sur les chapeaux de roux et dont la qualité ne faiblit pas (pourvu que ça dure) : c'est punchy, addictif, avec un univers complexe, des formes de magie originales, des personnages secondaires vraiment bien travaillés, chaque détail à son importance, plusieurs intrigues s'entremêlent, les révélations sont distillés au fil des pages.
Je souligne aussi la qualité de la traduction et de la relecture, ça devient tellement rare.
Bref, je suis absolument ravie de cette série et j'attends avec impatience le tome suivant.
Les deux hommes vont devoir jongler entre une enquête qui implique la possibilité de passer outre des barrières magiques, des démons, une voix qui parle à Parker, la politique des cours faes, le job de rose des vents pas totalement assumé, un pas-chat (je veux le même), l'adoption d'un succube, les rendez-vous amoureux loupés, des artefacts aux pouvoirs mystérieux, l'Arbre-monde, Silverwood qui vit sa vie, Javor et son cadeau pas facile à accepter...
Ajouter bien sûr à cela les insécurités de Parker et la famille de Nick (qui ne va pas tarder, je pense, à venir causer des problèmes).
Mais, heureusement, l'adversité rend les deux hommes encore plus proches, encore plus complices, et j'ai adoré les voir autant complémentaires, même si Parker a une fâcheuse tendance à vouloir faire cavalier seul. Leur relation est belle, elle se consolide avec le temps, se fortifie face aux batailles menées, face aux dangers affrontés ensemble.
Ce tome confirme mon coup de cœur pour cette saga d'urban fantasy démarrée sur les chapeaux de roux et dont la qualité ne faiblit pas (pourvu que ça dure) : c'est punchy, addictif, avec un univers complexe, des formes de magie originales, des personnages secondaires vraiment bien travaillés, chaque détail à son importance, plusieurs intrigues s'entremêlent, les révélations sont distillés au fil des pages.
Je souligne aussi la qualité de la traduction et de la relecture, ça devient tellement rare.
Bref, je suis absolument ravie de cette série et j'attends avec impatience le tome suivant.
March 10, 2022
I had so much fun with this, 4.5 stars rounded up. I listened to the audiobook and didn't want to stop. It went by much quicker than I thought it would and than a lot of others I've listened to recently. I was sad when it was over. And, of course, it ended while I was in the middle of cleaning, when I needed the words most...!
I wanted to start the next immediately but have no credits... It'll be next though! (Even though I was going to get a different book altogether.) Greg Tremblay did such an amazing job again.
I really liked the way this ended/how things were resolved (and some parts were funny). It was very interesting and I think some things even strengthened the characters and their relationships. There were some funny scenes throughout that I thoroughly appreciated.
I like how Nick's part has gone as well. Parker and Nick are partners in both senses, and I love it. Starts off rough here but we get through it fairly quick thankfully.
Not-a-cat was my favorite. I want one.
I wanted to start the next immediately but have no credits... It'll be next though! (Even though I was going to get a different book altogether.) Greg Tremblay did such an amazing job again.
I really liked the way this ended/how things were resolved (and some parts were funny). It was very interesting and I think some things even strengthened the characters and their relationships. There were some funny scenes throughout that I thoroughly appreciated.
I like how Nick's part has gone as well. Parker and Nick are partners in both senses, and I love it. Starts off rough here but we get through it fairly quick thankfully.
Not-a-cat was my favorite. I want one.
February 4, 2022
4 stars
I see you Kai Butler, this series is very gripping and takes you along for a crazy ride!
I did get annoyed with Parker and Nick, but they got over their weirdness and i was so happy about that.
I think this book reminds me a lot of the A Ferry of Bones & Gold (Soulbound series) by Hailey Turner with the complex Fae world and characters, and some of Alice Winters humor. So this was a win for me.
Greg Tremblay, no complaints. Ever. You are a narrating God! haha
Can't wait for book three!
I see you Kai Butler, this series is very gripping and takes you along for a crazy ride!
I did get annoyed with Parker and Nick, but they got over their weirdness and i was so happy about that.
I think this book reminds me a lot of the A Ferry of Bones & Gold (Soulbound series) by Hailey Turner with the complex Fae world and characters, and some of Alice Winters humor. So this was a win for me.
Greg Tremblay, no complaints. Ever. You are a narrating God! haha
Can't wait for book three!
December 18, 2022
This book gave me the adorable demon cat I never knew I needed.
Really enjoying this series. It’s starting to pick up steam as Parker continues to build a team/family and the mysteries surrounding his history deepen. I appreciated the forward momentum in his relationship with Nick. After the cliffhanger ending I’m really looking forward to starting book 3 soon.
Really enjoying this series. It’s starting to pick up steam as Parker continues to build a team/family and the mysteries surrounding his history deepen. I appreciated the forward momentum in his relationship with Nick. After the cliffhanger ending I’m really looking forward to starting book 3 soon.
February 10, 2022
Parker and Nick had to save San Amaro (again) and prevent the end of the world as we know it (again), but it was a fun read and I wait with abated breath for book 3.
June 29, 2021
An incredible continuation to the first book with a very, Very, VERY jaw dropping cliff hanger of an end. I didn't mind the cliffie although I'd love to have known beforehand.
Parker is a very dear but frustrating and exasperating character at the same time and a brat. I think he frustrates me mostly because I can't abide people that shirk their responsibilities and try to find others to do their work. And Parker is adamant about giving the Windrose role to someone else. But see you can't be totally mad with someone that is kind and brave and somewhat pure of heart, so much so that it nearly totals him when he realizes what he done when he was filling up on magic and taking in a not-a-cat demon and wouldn't even consider killing it because he never harmed anyone, no did it?
Nick is a rock beside Parker here, encouraging and supportive and completely confident in his belief that Parker is the most suitable person for the role of Windrose.
There is character development for both of them here, I won't spoiler things about Parker, but he really is coming into his own and opening up, lowering his defenses. And Nick sheds some of the chains that weigh him down and are about his father's approval.
Now when it comes to the story. I don't know if it's Kai Butler's style or Parker's character BUT FOR THE LOVE OF EVERYTHING don't leave things to be dealt with later and the later never comes. And I'm not talking about the fact that Parker completely ignored the "Call me immediately, I need your help" call from Acacia and he never called back till Acacia went to him, nope I'm talking about the fact that till the end of the book Kai never dealt with the grenades Parker had stashed into the trunk of his car. If I'm not mistaken he said something about "11 pins more to go" when he froze time, so he should have a cool dozen in there.... yeap no problem, carry on everyone.
Oh well, what to do, authors will do what they do.
I'm excited and can't wait for the next installment and if it isn't about finding Hollin, can we get a side story or something about Talon and Hollin, pretty please?
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
Parker is a very dear but frustrating and exasperating character at the same time and a brat. I think he frustrates me mostly because I can't abide people that shirk their responsibilities and try to find others to do their work. And Parker is adamant about giving the Windrose role to someone else. But see you can't be totally mad with someone that is kind and brave and somewhat pure of heart, so much so that it nearly totals him when he realizes what he done when he was filling up on magic and taking in a not-a-cat demon and wouldn't even consider killing it because he never harmed anyone, no did it?
Nick is a rock beside Parker here, encouraging and supportive and completely confident in his belief that Parker is the most suitable person for the role of Windrose.
There is character development for both of them here, I won't spoiler things about Parker, but he really is coming into his own and opening up, lowering his defenses. And Nick sheds some of the chains that weigh him down and are about his father's approval.
Now when it comes to the story. I don't know if it's Kai Butler's style or Parker's character BUT FOR THE LOVE OF EVERYTHING don't leave things to be dealt with later and the later never comes. And I'm not talking about the fact that Parker completely ignored the "Call me immediately, I need your help" call from Acacia and he never called back till Acacia went to him, nope I'm talking about the fact that till the end of the book Kai never dealt with the grenades Parker had stashed into the trunk of his car. If I'm not mistaken he said something about "11 pins more to go" when he froze time, so he should have a cool dozen in there.... yeap no problem, carry on everyone.
Oh well, what to do, authors will do what they do.
I'm excited and can't wait for the next installment and if it isn't about finding Hollin, can we get a side story or something about Talon and Hollin, pretty please?
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
March 1, 2022
Struggled
I feel like there was a book between this one and the first one in the series. Usually, when there is a time gap between books, it's fairly innocuous. In this series, apparently Parker falls in love, and some activities take place that are referenced in the storyline that left me feeling like I was missing a notable component of the story. It was strange.
I struggled with Parker as a character right off the bat. In book 1, he comes across as quite lazy and undisciplined; a whiney, entitle man child who just can't be bothered to do the basics of adulting. This definitely continues, and really his laziness seems to grow as he hasn't resolved the issue of the land spirit in the 3 months - really, he hasn't made any progress on it. Why? "Reasons."
In addition, his constant whining is beyond underwhelming. If i met him in real life, I'd walk away after 5 minutes shaking my head at his victim personality. At some point, he's got to face his issues and grow up. The man child behavior is not attractive or interesting. I cannot take watching his boyfriend feed and take care of him while he (Parker) falls apart at having to do the basics of adulting. Unreal.
Sadly, the romantic relationship feels forced and too fast paced to be believable. This is where I really feel that 3 month gap. They fell in love in this window but it all happens off page so we don't see them grow as a couple. It makes it all feel shallow and fake, and I'm not invested in the relationship because it's barely visible to me. There is some growth in this book, but IMO it's minimal and feels out of sync.
One final note: I struggled with the heavy use of similes and metaphors. There were way too many and it bogged down the plot with pop culture references and snarky comments that became tedious. Not everything needs to be described to such detail, or needs the character's commentary. Several times I found myself led down a road of tangents at a pivotal plot point, wondering when we'd get back to the actual story and information that mattered and moved things along. Bogging the reader down with unnecessary info at a critical point in the story seems counterproductive. I'd advise a change in approach here to keep readers interested.
Overall, I am struggling with this series but plan to read book 3 in hopes some of these issues get resolved.
I feel like there was a book between this one and the first one in the series. Usually, when there is a time gap between books, it's fairly innocuous. In this series, apparently Parker falls in love, and some activities take place that are referenced in the storyline that left me feeling like I was missing a notable component of the story. It was strange.
I struggled with Parker as a character right off the bat. In book 1, he comes across as quite lazy and undisciplined; a whiney, entitle man child who just can't be bothered to do the basics of adulting. This definitely continues, and really his laziness seems to grow as he hasn't resolved the issue of the land spirit in the 3 months - really, he hasn't made any progress on it. Why? "Reasons."
In addition, his constant whining is beyond underwhelming. If i met him in real life, I'd walk away after 5 minutes shaking my head at his victim personality. At some point, he's got to face his issues and grow up. The man child behavior is not attractive or interesting. I cannot take watching his boyfriend feed and take care of him while he (Parker) falls apart at having to do the basics of adulting. Unreal.
Sadly, the romantic relationship feels forced and too fast paced to be believable. This is where I really feel that 3 month gap. They fell in love in this window but it all happens off page so we don't see them grow as a couple. It makes it all feel shallow and fake, and I'm not invested in the relationship because it's barely visible to me. There is some growth in this book, but IMO it's minimal and feels out of sync.
One final note: I struggled with the heavy use of similes and metaphors. There were way too many and it bogged down the plot with pop culture references and snarky comments that became tedious. Not everything needs to be described to such detail, or needs the character's commentary. Several times I found myself led down a road of tangents at a pivotal plot point, wondering when we'd get back to the actual story and information that mattered and moved things along. Bogging the reader down with unnecessary info at a critical point in the story seems counterproductive. I'd advise a change in approach here to keep readers interested.
Overall, I am struggling with this series but plan to read book 3 in hopes some of these issues get resolved.
August 6, 2023
Oh wow does Parker have a lot on his plate here. The spirit under the city is about to shake everything apart if he can't find it's other half, demons keep popping up around the city, there's thefts and murders that don't seem to have any sort of tie to each other, and well he still really doesn't understand or want the job he seems to have found himself in as the Windrose. To top it all off Nick's new case has him gone all the time and unwilling to talk about it.
This story is packed from minute one and I loved it all. I appreciated that there was some tension between Parker and Nick as they work out how this relationship of theirs is going to work. Parker's still scared to admit his feelings and have someone else leave him. And Nick's worried about their relationship being nothing but work. I liked that they're stronger now and that they do talk things through. And I adore their new pet! Their not-cat is awesome!
A lot of things come together in this story and Parker is finding his way. He's discovering more hidden depths within himself and each new challenge forces him to change and adapt more than he's necessarily comfortable with. But he's learning that he does have people in his corner and that they'll be there for him. I'm curious to see where things go, I like Sugar and think she's going to bring something fun to his life eventually. With the dark fae now involved and I'm sure life is only going to get more complicated for Parker and Nick. But together they can handle anything.
This story is packed from minute one and I loved it all. I appreciated that there was some tension between Parker and Nick as they work out how this relationship of theirs is going to work. Parker's still scared to admit his feelings and have someone else leave him. And Nick's worried about their relationship being nothing but work. I liked that they're stronger now and that they do talk things through. And I adore their new pet! Their not-cat is awesome!
A lot of things come together in this story and Parker is finding his way. He's discovering more hidden depths within himself and each new challenge forces him to change and adapt more than he's necessarily comfortable with. But he's learning that he does have people in his corner and that they'll be there for him. I'm curious to see where things go, I like Sugar and think she's going to bring something fun to his life eventually. With the dark fae now involved and I'm sure life is only going to get more complicated for Parker and Nick. But together they can handle anything.
July 7, 2021
Wow. This is one of the best books I read this year. But thisvis definitely no standalone
I absolutely love the world building and Parker is a great character. The idea of the Windrose is great and I can't wait to see where that goes.
Relationship wise we start this book where the first ended ... with Nick as his boyfriend. But there are some troubles in paradise...
The secondary characters are really interesting and well done and bring an interesting twist into the book.
There are a lot of open questions at the end of the book and a definite cliffhanger ... with a twist that really surprised me.
Can't wait for the next book!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely love the world building and Parker is a great character. The idea of the Windrose is great and I can't wait to see where that goes.
Relationship wise we start this book where the first ended ... with Nick as his boyfriend. But there are some troubles in paradise...
The secondary characters are really interesting and well done and bring an interesting twist into the book.
There are a lot of open questions at the end of the book and a definite cliffhanger ... with a twist that really surprised me.
Can't wait for the next book!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
The Oak Wood Throne is the second book in Kai Butler’s San Amaro Investigations series and picks us back up with Parker and Nick in the aftermath of Parker’s last case. One of the hallmarks of the series that continues to shine here is Butler’s creative and detailed world building. The books combine the world of the fae and the various courts with different types of magic, assorted paranormal beings, and a mystery/investigation. Butler does a really nice job of taking these elements that often stand alone in other books and weaving them together in a way that really works. I find Parker’s magic, in particular, really interesting. He has fae magic and can communicate with various elements to get them to do his will, like making a cardboard box revert to stronger wood. It is not something I have ever seen before and it really adds a nice touch to watching Parker work. Both the first two books also take seemingly disparate plot threads and weave them together to connect in a skillful and interesting way. Butler has really taken the time to develop the lore and there is a lot of nice detail here that brings the story to life.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
The Oak Wood Throne is the second book in Kai Butler’s San Amaro Investigations series and picks us back up with Parker and Nick in the aftermath of Parker’s last case. One of the hallmarks of the series that continues to shine here is Butler’s creative and detailed world building. The books combine the world of the fae and the various courts with different types of magic, assorted paranormal beings, and a mystery/investigation. Butler does a really nice job of taking these elements that often stand alone in other books and weaving them together in a way that really works. I find Parker’s magic, in particular, really interesting. He has fae magic and can communicate with various elements to get them to do his will, like making a cardboard box revert to stronger wood. It is not something I have ever seen before and it really adds a nice touch to watching Parker work. Both the first two books also take seemingly disparate plot threads and weave them together to connect in a skillful and interesting way. Butler has really taken the time to develop the lore and there is a lot of nice detail here that brings the story to life.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
October 18, 2022
what just happened💀. thanks for that cliff, I'll just be over here jumping to the next book then.
December 7, 2025
4.25 ⭐
This was a very fun read and I enjoyed every second of it!
This was a very fun read and I enjoyed every second of it!
January 27, 2022
The only thing that would make this series better is it was dual POV, as I would love to get in Nick's head. And I want a not-a-cat :D. There was so much going on in this book. We have Parker struggling with being the Windrose and his want to find a replacement. The death of the World Tree. Finding the other half of San Amaro that went missing several hundred years ago. He also has been hired to find an artifact that was stolen from a warded room. And someone getting through wards without breaking them. Nick also has a new investigation that is taking a lot of his time. What I was disappointed about, is that I really wanted them to work on cases together, but they have decided that they are not going to discuss their cases with each other. I love Prince Talon & want him to get his own book. A big secret is revealed & I really didn't see that one coming. I can't wait to see where we are going with this one
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
November 30, 2024
I have some mixed feelings about THE OAK WOOD THRONE but overall this was an action packed read with lots of magical battles and likable characters.
If I would rate just the romance side of the story I would rate this higher because I loved the steps forward Parker and Nick take. Parker is finally letting himself be vulnerable with Nick and I adored the way Nick would bolster Parker's self-worth. These two are really great together!
However, much like the first book in the series, THE OAK WOOD THRONE was extra complicated and Parker spends most of the book bouncing from one disaster to the next until everything pretty much explodes in his face. Hopefully this smoothes out a bit in future books.
If I would rate just the romance side of the story I would rate this higher because I loved the steps forward Parker and Nick take. Parker is finally letting himself be vulnerable with Nick and I adored the way Nick would bolster Parker's self-worth. These two are really great together!
However, much like the first book in the series, THE OAK WOOD THRONE was extra complicated and Parker spends most of the book bouncing from one disaster to the next until everything pretty much explodes in his face. Hopefully this smoothes out a bit in future books.
July 11, 2023
Okay so back with Parker.
First of all, I love the not-a-cat. Cutest thing ever.
Parker is a bit overwhelmed with his new job and with the fact that Nick is working so much that he is starting to wonder if they have a future.
Parker insisted to the spirit under the city that he is doing everything he can, but in reality how long did the answers the monarchs gave him lay on the floor because he needed to do something else? The task was huge of course. There were a lot of things happening, but I was fairly certain that they all will lead to one place. Not so sure that I like Sugar.
I would love to learn more about how Parker ended up being abandoned with the humans.
First of all, I love the not-a-cat. Cutest thing ever.
Parker is a bit overwhelmed with his new job and with the fact that Nick is working so much that he is starting to wonder if they have a future.
Parker insisted to the spirit under the city that he is doing everything he can, but in reality how long did the answers the monarchs gave him lay on the floor because he needed to do something else? The task was huge of course. There were a lot of things happening, but I was fairly certain that they all will lead to one place. Not so sure that I like Sugar.
I would love to learn more about how Parker ended up being abandoned with the humans.
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