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Potentate of Atlanta #6
Badge of Honor
6 hours, 16 minutes
The Epilogues: Part I
Hadley has worked her butt off to earn her title as Potentate of Atlanta. All that’s left for her is the gauntlet. A show of prowess for the citizens of Atlanta. A taste of what their new POA can do. She’s ready to dazzle them and bring home the prize.
Until an old friend gets kidnapped. The price of his freedom? Her flunking the gauntlet. Either she gives up on her dream or her friend. For Hadley, there’s only once choice.
The Epilogues: Part I
Hadley has worked her butt off to earn her title as Potentate of Atlanta. All that’s left for her is the gauntlet. A show of prowess for the citizens of Atlanta. A taste of what their new POA can do. She’s ready to dazzle them and bring home the prize.
Until an old friend gets kidnapped. The price of his freedom? Her flunking the gauntlet. Either she gives up on her dream or her friend. For Hadley, there’s only once choice.
Audiobook
First published May 20, 2021
368 people are currently reading
303 people want to read
About the author
Hailey Edwards
104 books2,849 followersHailey Edwards writes about questionable applications of otherwise perfectly good magic, the transformative power of love, the family you choose for yourself, and blowing stuff up. Not necessarily all at once. That could get messy.
Hailey isn't on Goodreads.
Please email her via her website:
https://haileyedwards.net/contact-form/
Hailey isn't on Goodreads.
Please email her via her website:
https://haileyedwards.net/contact-form/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
March 12, 2022
Amazing! As usual!
I wasn't sure the 'epilogue' would be as good as the series itself because of a few past experiences... however, book 6 was an all time closure for me, a fantastic way to complete an already brilliant set of books!
I love the writing style, the world, the characters, they are a complete blend of 'perfection' in a series like this and I'm absolutely ecstatic that I stumbled across it!
I wasn't sure the 'epilogue' would be as good as the series itself because of a few past experiences... however, book 6 was an all time closure for me, a fantastic way to complete an already brilliant set of books!
I love the writing style, the world, the characters, they are a complete blend of 'perfection' in a series like this and I'm absolutely ecstatic that I stumbled across it!
November 26, 2021
Everything I love in an urban fantasy ending. Still lots of action, but ultimately centered around the friendships and love that Hadley has worked so hard for and won throughout her years as apprentice. It was the perfect way to see her attain the title of Potentate - and end it with the warmest of sighs!
June 9, 2023
Badge of Honor is book six in the Potentate of Atlanta series by Hailey Edwards.
Hadley is preparing for the trials that will make her the official Potentate of Atlanta, but there are those that don’t want her to succeed.
I thought book five was the end and so when this epilogue came out I was pleasantly surprised. It has suspense, action, drama and a happy ever after.
The story brought some threads to close wrapping everything up nicely. It shows how much Hadley has come to mean to the people and city of Atlanta. She shows growth and her team helps her ever step of the way to find a missing friend.
Edwards did a great job showcasing all the characters in this series and how well they can manage the trials thrown at them. Hadley and Midas are the perfect couple. They work well together and we get some wedding talk. The story is a fast-paced adventure from start to finish.
Badge of Honor was a delightful read. I very much enjoyed see all the characters for Potentate of Atlanta series one last time. I look forward to revisiting them if the author does come back to the world. I highly recommend this author and her work. Great for Urban Fantasy fans.
Rated: 4 Stars
Hadley is preparing for the trials that will make her the official Potentate of Atlanta, but there are those that don’t want her to succeed.
I thought book five was the end and so when this epilogue came out I was pleasantly surprised. It has suspense, action, drama and a happy ever after.
The story brought some threads to close wrapping everything up nicely. It shows how much Hadley has come to mean to the people and city of Atlanta. She shows growth and her team helps her ever step of the way to find a missing friend.
Edwards did a great job showcasing all the characters in this series and how well they can manage the trials thrown at them. Hadley and Midas are the perfect couple. They work well together and we get some wedding talk. The story is a fast-paced adventure from start to finish.
Badge of Honor was a delightful read. I very much enjoyed see all the characters for Potentate of Atlanta series one last time. I look forward to revisiting them if the author does come back to the world. I highly recommend this author and her work. Great for Urban Fantasy fans.
Rated: 4 Stars
June 27, 2025
I really love this series, and its parent series TBGTN. I was surprised that book 5 was the last official one of the series, and crossed my fingers the author would do an epilogue book (she did several with the parent series, and I ate them up) because I felt like we deserved to see Hadley finish her journey as Linus' apprentice and become POA.
So needless to say, I loved this.
I'd love it anyway, just for a chance to revisit the world and the characters, but it really stuck the landing imo.
So needless to say, I loved this.
I'd love it anyway, just for a chance to revisit the world and the characters, but it really stuck the landing imo.
December 8, 2021
As Hadley prepares for the trials that will make her the official Potentate of Atlanta, it’s announced she will have a contender for the official position of Potentate.
I honestly thought book five was the last in this series, so I was delighted to discover this epilogue. Edwards delivered from her signature humor to an intense and suspenseful trial.
The story brought closer to a few threads. It also showed us just how much Hadley means to the city of Atlanta. Throughout the story, Hadley shows growth as she sidesteps some hairy situations. Edwards likes to put her characters in impossible predicaments and test them. I loved some of the intense rescues, and the trials themselves brought plenty of excitement and twists.
The characters are the heart of this urban fantasy and I love them all, from her snarky assistant to the were clan. Hadley and Midas are the perfect couple and the wedding talk mixed into the story along with romantic moments that balanced out the fast-moving plot.
I am looking forward to the final epilogue and that we get to witness the union of Hadley and Midas. As with most urban fantasy, this series is best read/listened to in the order of its release. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
I honestly thought book five was the last in this series, so I was delighted to discover this epilogue. Edwards delivered from her signature humor to an intense and suspenseful trial.
The story brought closer to a few threads. It also showed us just how much Hadley means to the city of Atlanta. Throughout the story, Hadley shows growth as she sidesteps some hairy situations. Edwards likes to put her characters in impossible predicaments and test them. I loved some of the intense rescues, and the trials themselves brought plenty of excitement and twists.
The characters are the heart of this urban fantasy and I love them all, from her snarky assistant to the were clan. Hadley and Midas are the perfect couple and the wedding talk mixed into the story along with romantic moments that balanced out the fast-moving plot.
I am looking forward to the final epilogue and that we get to witness the union of Hadley and Midas. As with most urban fantasy, this series is best read/listened to in the order of its release. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
May 30, 2021
This one is the big test for Hadley, the one where once and for all it will be decided if she wins Atlanta. And of course with Hadley being involved you know things go a bit wonky. Through it all Hadley does what she has to, which tends sometimes to not always be the best thing to secure her place, but it is the right thing to do for the people involved. In the end though Hadley's right thing was the right thing for everyone, including Atlanta. The ceremony at the end was interesting, more so with the private conversation she had with the Grande Dame.
May 26, 2021
I genuinely can't get enough of Hadley and Midas and all the allies Hadley's gathered as she fought for Atlanta with everything inside her. So this? It was a sweet, blood-soaked, danger-laden little treat that thrills me to my bones.
First off, Hadley and Midas. They're just adorable together. He takes care of her when she gets so wrapped up in her work that she forgets to do things like eat and sleep. He's her rock and she's his center. And the extended pack (starting with Mama Kinase) is the family she could have had if things had been different in her other life. (I'm still making angry eyebrows at Hadley's mother and the things she did to Hadley/Amelie. She might be out of Hadley's life, but Hadley's still working on being enough because of her and GRRRRRR.)
Besides being one half of our growly couple, we also get to see Hadley ready to come into her own as the POA. Naturally, things don't go smoothly, though. People are in danger, a potential rival for the position has appeared, and Hadley's not about to let someone important to her be the price for her becoming the POA.
Some steam, some danger, and Spock ears. Because Hadley is Hadley and Midas is determined to give her all the things that make her happy.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
First off, Hadley and Midas. They're just adorable together. He takes care of her when she gets so wrapped up in her work that she forgets to do things like eat and sleep. He's her rock and she's his center. And the extended pack (starting with Mama Kinase) is the family she could have had if things had been different in her other life. (I'm still making angry eyebrows at Hadley's mother and the things she did to Hadley/Amelie. She might be out of Hadley's life, but Hadley's still working on being enough because of her and GRRRRRR.)
Besides being one half of our growly couple, we also get to see Hadley ready to come into her own as the POA. Naturally, things don't go smoothly, though. People are in danger, a potential rival for the position has appeared, and Hadley's not about to let someone important to her be the price for her becoming the POA.
Some steam, some danger, and Spock ears. Because Hadley is Hadley and Midas is determined to give her all the things that make her happy.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
January 8, 2023
3.5ish
It was a good story, they are all good stories in this series with very likeable characters with believable growth arcs. However, after waiting so long for the audiobook it just feels a bit anticlimactic.
It was a good story, they are all good stories in this series with very likeable characters with believable growth arcs. However, after waiting so long for the audiobook it just feels a bit anticlimactic.
May 25, 2021
A little closer to 3.5 stars.
It’s time for the trials and, of course, a surprise is sprung on our hero. This time it feels like the mystery is too easily solved and the outcome of the trials feels too trite.
But I love these characters so much. Hadley and Bishops friendship is awesome. Midas is awesome, like always. Linus and the whole gang show up for the trials, as they should.
This book kept my attention and moved the story along well.
It’s time for the trials and, of course, a surprise is sprung on our hero. This time it feels like the mystery is too easily solved and the outcome of the trials feels too trite.
But I love these characters so much. Hadley and Bishops friendship is awesome. Midas is awesome, like always. Linus and the whole gang show up for the trials, as they should.
This book kept my attention and moved the story along well.
July 28, 2021
4.5 Stars:)
May 30, 2021
Love
I always enjoy the stories of Hadley and Midas. As usual, this one did not disappoint. I'm really going to hate for their story to end.
I always enjoy the stories of Hadley and Midas. As usual, this one did not disappoint. I'm really going to hate for their story to end.
August 21, 2022
4.25 Stars 🌟
This was the last book in this series. It was labeled as an Epilogue, but it was truly the culmination of the story arc that we (the reader) have been following from the very beginning.
Hadley is ready to become the official "Potentate of Atlanta". All she has to do is make it through the gauntlet and the title is hers. Unfortunately, there are factions that do not want that to occur, and they know that she is not one of the "usual" supernaturals. Hadley actually cares about her friends. She is one of the few that would sacrifice her future to keep her friends safe. Her rivals are counting on that fact.
And so the story begins.....
I have to admit - this story felt kind of "out there" for me. It felt like it was a bit too forced with the storyline that we were given on the "candidate" who shows up to try to contest her position. There is a lot going on behind the scenes and as usual, there is more than what we see on the surface.
I did appreciate the way that we see her friends again coming to her aid and it was a confirmation of the goodwill that she has built during her time in Atlanta.
I did enjoy this series. It never crossed over that unexplainable barrier for me to become a "fantastic" series that I completely and utterly fell in love with .....but I did enjoy the series.
I liked the fact that this book tried to tie everything together and served as an ending for the reader. All in all this was a fun and easy read that had some great characters and an interesting story line. I have found that Ms. Edwards is an author that I will be looking out for in the future. That, in itself, is probably the greatest compliment that I can give this series.
This was the last book in this series. It was labeled as an Epilogue, but it was truly the culmination of the story arc that we (the reader) have been following from the very beginning.
Hadley is ready to become the official "Potentate of Atlanta". All she has to do is make it through the gauntlet and the title is hers. Unfortunately, there are factions that do not want that to occur, and they know that she is not one of the "usual" supernaturals. Hadley actually cares about her friends. She is one of the few that would sacrifice her future to keep her friends safe. Her rivals are counting on that fact.
And so the story begins.....
I have to admit - this story felt kind of "out there" for me. It felt like it was a bit too forced with the storyline that we were given on the "candidate" who shows up to try to contest her position. There is a lot going on behind the scenes and as usual, there is more than what we see on the surface.
I did appreciate the way that we see her friends again coming to her aid and it was a confirmation of the goodwill that she has built during her time in Atlanta.
I did enjoy this series. It never crossed over that unexplainable barrier for me to become a "fantastic" series that I completely and utterly fell in love with .....but I did enjoy the series.
I liked the fact that this book tried to tie everything together and served as an ending for the reader. All in all this was a fun and easy read that had some great characters and an interesting story line. I have found that Ms. Edwards is an author that I will be looking out for in the future. That, in itself, is probably the greatest compliment that I can give this series.
June 4, 2022
This story is titled Badge of Honor Epilogue 1. If you’ve read the previous series, The Beginners Guide to Necromancy you know that series ended with 3 epilogues. Despite the Epilogue 1 listed along with the title, as best as I can discern there are no additional epilogues to this series making it the final installment to the Potentate of Atlanta series.
I will admit that at first I found the idea that given her background even sans her sins as a dybbuk, Potentate (which is sort of a paranormal sheriff, chief law enforcement officer) of Georgia’s largest city seemed like an odd career choice for Amelie Pritchard, now Hadley Whitaker. I mean in the previous series where we first met Amelie she led a fairly normal human existence as a Low Society member with absolutely no magical power, going to school to earn her M.B.A. and working nights as a HAINT, until she went off the rails and bonded with Ambrose a murderous shade leading her to be convicted of murders and would have been put to death if her former BFF Grier Woolworth and Grier’s fiancée Linus hadn’t interceded on her behalf. But as the story goes Amelie now Hadley sees this as her second chance in life, severing all of who she once was to become someone completely new. Under Linus’s (the current official P.O.A.) training (Although I have to admit the author makes the two years Hadley has been in training seem like more. I mean apprentice trades people often spend 3-4 years in their apprenticeships to be recognized as masters in their craft so two years to be an understudy for the P.O.A. position with no prior experience really didn’t seem like a long time to me.) she has more than proven her worth and ability to handle the job in the previous 5 books in this series. Which makes the underlying plot to this story, that it is now time for Hadley to show what she’s got by running a potentially deadly gauntlet which if she succeeds will lead to her installment as the P.O.A. more than a little hard to swallow. I mean if you like myself have been reading this series right along you are aware that Hadley has more than proven herself capable and worthy. Because (as we’re reminded over and over again in this book) of her marshmallow heart, her treatment of everyone in the paranormal community as equals and her willingness to put everyone’s needs ahead of her own and her courage she has won the hearts and respect of the paranormals of Atlanta and made them willing to follow and support her in ways even Linus never did or could with his more reserved personality.
Assuming you’ve read the synopsis you know that as Hadley prepares to run the gauntlet a close friend is kidnapped with their life to be used as leverage to force Hadley to throw the contest so she won’t be made P.O.A. Additionally Susan who was the Potentate of Phoenix until she stepped down a dozen years ago after giving birth to quintuplets has thrown her hat in the ring at the last moment to also be considered for the P.O.A. job. While Hadley is supposed to be preparing for the trial by gauntlet in which she now must also compete against Susan she has to try and find out where her friend is being held and try and rescue him before she begins the Gauntlet or throw the contest to save his life. This story reads as a detective/mystery as she and her P.O.A. team and Midas her mate and fiancée search for clues as to who took her friend and where they’ve stashed him.
This is a fairly fast paced story as Hadley and company race around Atlanta trying to discover who the kidnappers are and where they’ve put their victims. As has become the norm in this story Hadley and Midas continue to share lots of steamy and in love looks and there’s plenty of references to their now very active sex life. Despite all she’s accomplished Hadley still at times questions if she’s enough thanks to the lasting effects of being raised by her physically and mentally abusive mother. Everyone around her continues to remind her of how great she is. With the exception of Lethe the author brings back all the main characters from the B.G.T.N. series for a final hurrah as they encourage and help Hadley earn her rightful spot as P.O.A. Mostly because on the whole I’ve enjoyed reading all six books in this series and I’m a sucker for H.E.A. I’m going to give this book 4 stars even if we didn’t get to see Hadley’s Star Trek themed wedding or much of her life after she’s made P.O.A.
I will admit that at first I found the idea that given her background even sans her sins as a dybbuk, Potentate (which is sort of a paranormal sheriff, chief law enforcement officer) of Georgia’s largest city seemed like an odd career choice for Amelie Pritchard, now Hadley Whitaker. I mean in the previous series where we first met Amelie she led a fairly normal human existence as a Low Society member with absolutely no magical power, going to school to earn her M.B.A. and working nights as a HAINT, until she went off the rails and bonded with Ambrose a murderous shade leading her to be convicted of murders and would have been put to death if her former BFF Grier Woolworth and Grier’s fiancée Linus hadn’t interceded on her behalf. But as the story goes Amelie now Hadley sees this as her second chance in life, severing all of who she once was to become someone completely new. Under Linus’s (the current official P.O.A.) training (Although I have to admit the author makes the two years Hadley has been in training seem like more. I mean apprentice trades people often spend 3-4 years in their apprenticeships to be recognized as masters in their craft so two years to be an understudy for the P.O.A. position with no prior experience really didn’t seem like a long time to me.) she has more than proven her worth and ability to handle the job in the previous 5 books in this series. Which makes the underlying plot to this story, that it is now time for Hadley to show what she’s got by running a potentially deadly gauntlet which if she succeeds will lead to her installment as the P.O.A. more than a little hard to swallow. I mean if you like myself have been reading this series right along you are aware that Hadley has more than proven herself capable and worthy. Because (as we’re reminded over and over again in this book) of her marshmallow heart, her treatment of everyone in the paranormal community as equals and her willingness to put everyone’s needs ahead of her own and her courage she has won the hearts and respect of the paranormals of Atlanta and made them willing to follow and support her in ways even Linus never did or could with his more reserved personality.
Assuming you’ve read the synopsis you know that as Hadley prepares to run the gauntlet a close friend is kidnapped with their life to be used as leverage to force Hadley to throw the contest so she won’t be made P.O.A. Additionally Susan who was the Potentate of Phoenix until she stepped down a dozen years ago after giving birth to quintuplets has thrown her hat in the ring at the last moment to also be considered for the P.O.A. job. While Hadley is supposed to be preparing for the trial by gauntlet in which she now must also compete against Susan she has to try and find out where her friend is being held and try and rescue him before she begins the Gauntlet or throw the contest to save his life. This story reads as a detective/mystery as she and her P.O.A. team and Midas her mate and fiancée search for clues as to who took her friend and where they’ve stashed him.
This is a fairly fast paced story as Hadley and company race around Atlanta trying to discover who the kidnappers are and where they’ve put their victims. As has become the norm in this story Hadley and Midas continue to share lots of steamy and in love looks and there’s plenty of references to their now very active sex life. Despite all she’s accomplished Hadley still at times questions if she’s enough thanks to the lasting effects of being raised by her physically and mentally abusive mother. Everyone around her continues to remind her of how great she is. With the exception of Lethe the author brings back all the main characters from the B.G.T.N. series for a final hurrah as they encourage and help Hadley earn her rightful spot as P.O.A. Mostly because on the whole I’ve enjoyed reading all six books in this series and I’m a sucker for H.E.A. I’m going to give this book 4 stars even if we didn’t get to see Hadley’s Star Trek themed wedding or much of her life after she’s made P.O.A.
June 17, 2021
3.5 stars
July 5, 2021
I loved this one *immensely*. I felt it returned to the heart of the series with all the delightful characters and relationships and humor. The story was good and interesting. So very happy to have more Hadley and Midas. Revelations are made here that should help build Hadley's confidence. I just love this one.
July 9, 2025
Nice wrap up. Silly plot. Good audiobook.
June 20, 2021
It's a great book! I mean, I will never get tired of Hailey, but after the last book, the one I thought would be the last, thankfully it wasn't, we get to see her back in action, but this time she is really accepted by everyone, and it's so wholesome to see everyone having her back. There were a few moments where things looked kind of rough for her, there's always some trouble, but she got over it in a beautiful way, and she keeps being her, and she shows everyone who she is and what she is made of.
This time she is finally getting ready to take her place as the potentate, but just as she is getting ready, and thinking everything is fine, an outside power decides they don't want her, and everything he has worked so hard for can get taken away. We hope and pray that everything is going to turn out well, but still, it's really entertaining to see everything she has to go through, and like I said, having any chance at getting more of Hailey it's a plus, she is one of my favorite characters ever! I just want to hug her and tell her she is enough.
This time she is finally getting ready to take her place as the potentate, but just as she is getting ready, and thinking everything is fine, an outside power decides they don't want her, and everything he has worked so hard for can get taken away. We hope and pray that everything is going to turn out well, but still, it's really entertaining to see everything she has to go through, and like I said, having any chance at getting more of Hailey it's a plus, she is one of my favorite characters ever! I just want to hug her and tell her she is enough.
January 28, 2022
Ratings - completed series:
#1 Shadow of Doubt: ★★★★☆
#2 Pack of Lies: ★★★★★
#3 Change of Heart: ★★★★★
#4 Proof of Life: ★★★★☆
#5 Moment of Truth: ★★★★☆
The Epilogues:
#6 Badge of Honor (this book): ★★★★☆
#1 Shadow of Doubt: ★★★★☆
#2 Pack of Lies: ★★★★★
#3 Change of Heart: ★★★★★
#4 Proof of Life: ★★★★☆
#5 Moment of Truth: ★★★★☆
The Epilogues:
#6 Badge of Honor (this book): ★★★★☆
January 12, 2026
Outstanding ending to the POA series.
This book had it all. I laughed, cried, cheered (a lot), and even cringed a time or two. I had some parts figured out while others took me completely by surprise. I want to vote for Tisdale as "Super Mom". Hank totally took me by surprise.
Definitely one of my favorite books in the series.
This book had it all. I laughed, cried, cheered (a lot), and even cringed a time or two. I had some parts figured out while others took me completely by surprise. I want to vote for Tisdale as "Super Mom". Hank totally took me by surprise.
Definitely one of my favorite books in the series.
October 30, 2021
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
I loved the Beginner's Guide to Necromancy series. They are all on Kindle Unlimited as well as this new series, The Potentate of Atlanta . It is with some characters from the original series. Hadley, ie. Amelie, is now living in Atlanta training to be the POA.
I thought perhaps the previous book, Moment of Truth was the final in the series. Badge of Honor does have a description as an epilogue. I am so happy to have more with lots of favorite characters and learning more secret bits of information about this world.
To become Potentate, Hadley has to "run" the gauntlet which is an obstacle course of sorts. It is to show she can handle different issues as POA. We don't learn much about it until the end. There are plenty of real life obstacles because someone doesn't want her to be POA; they want their own hand picked puppet.
So people are kidnapped to force Hadley, to do what they want. Hadley is also busy planning her wedding on the side. I was on edge hoping everything would work out. I loved seeing all the support for Hadley from multiple supernatural factions in the city. Linus was on hand for the actual "run," as the current POA. Hadley did a great job of investigating the problems and handling them. Badge of Honor was an uplifting, exciting adventure.
Narration:
Rebecca Mitchell is Grier for me and also Linus. I have adjusted to her as Hadley also. She performs male and female voices well. However, all the female voices are quite similar and the male voices are mostly alike also. I listened at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
COYER #28 Read a book featuring a strong female protagonist.
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
I loved the Beginner's Guide to Necromancy series. They are all on Kindle Unlimited as well as this new series, The Potentate of Atlanta . It is with some characters from the original series. Hadley, ie. Amelie, is now living in Atlanta training to be the POA.
I thought perhaps the previous book, Moment of Truth was the final in the series. Badge of Honor does have a description as an epilogue. I am so happy to have more with lots of favorite characters and learning more secret bits of information about this world.
To become Potentate, Hadley has to "run" the gauntlet which is an obstacle course of sorts. It is to show she can handle different issues as POA. We don't learn much about it until the end. There are plenty of real life obstacles because someone doesn't want her to be POA; they want their own hand picked puppet.
So people are kidnapped to force Hadley, to do what they want. Hadley is also busy planning her wedding on the side. I was on edge hoping everything would work out. I loved seeing all the support for Hadley from multiple supernatural factions in the city. Linus was on hand for the actual "run," as the current POA. Hadley did a great job of investigating the problems and handling them. Badge of Honor was an uplifting, exciting adventure.
Narration:
Rebecca Mitchell is Grier for me and also Linus. I have adjusted to her as Hadley also. She performs male and female voices well. However, all the female voices are quite similar and the male voices are mostly alike also. I listened at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
COYER #28 Read a book featuring a strong female protagonist.
June 7, 2021
“Badge of Honor” finds Hadley about to run the gauntlet to be installed as Potentate of Atlanta but before that even can happen someone has destroyed the obstacle course and kidnapped one of Hadley’s friends. To make matters worse, a former Potentate has decided to enter the challenge for the position. What the??!?!
Hadley is eagerly planning and looking forward to her upcoming wedding to Midas in six months. They have a major Star Trek theme wedding and it promises to be a blast. Before she can even try to settle down her friend, Neely has been kidnapped and his husband badly injured by vampires. Then she is approached by a woman named Sue who wants to challenge her for the position of Potentate of Atlanta. Hadley’s friends are none too pleased and will make every effort to ensure she will claim her rightful position.
Quickly we learn all is not what it seems. There is someone acting behind the scene trying to manipulate the future of Atlanta. The kidnappers want Hadley to step down from the gauntlet or they will kill her friend. That won’t happen without a fight and with everyone encouraging and doubting Hadley she will learn confidence and strength.
Although there were quite a few tough moments in this read that were stressful but there were also moments of humor and levity that has made this series endearing to me. There was plenty of subterfuge, action and sizzling chemistry with Hadley and Midas. In the end, this was a good read. I can’t wait for the next book to read about the wedding.
Hadley is eagerly planning and looking forward to her upcoming wedding to Midas in six months. They have a major Star Trek theme wedding and it promises to be a blast. Before she can even try to settle down her friend, Neely has been kidnapped and his husband badly injured by vampires. Then she is approached by a woman named Sue who wants to challenge her for the position of Potentate of Atlanta. Hadley’s friends are none too pleased and will make every effort to ensure she will claim her rightful position.
Quickly we learn all is not what it seems. There is someone acting behind the scene trying to manipulate the future of Atlanta. The kidnappers want Hadley to step down from the gauntlet or they will kill her friend. That won’t happen without a fight and with everyone encouraging and doubting Hadley she will learn confidence and strength.
Although there were quite a few tough moments in this read that were stressful but there were also moments of humor and levity that has made this series endearing to me. There was plenty of subterfuge, action and sizzling chemistry with Hadley and Midas. In the end, this was a good read. I can’t wait for the next book to read about the wedding.
June 18, 2021
When Hadley Whitaker, the Potentate of Atlanta apprentice, dybbuk, and mate to Midas Kinase realizes that she is enough, that she was, in fact, enough as Amelie Pritchard, it felt like the very pages of Badge of Honor sighed with relief. Hadley has been coming into her own throughout the entire POA series and readers have been invested in her transformation from the beginning, but it was this first epilogue where readers truly know she believes in herself. Badge of Honor is the countdown to the gauntlet where Hadley will either earn the official title of POA or fail, her career over before it officially begins. As if that isn't enough, Edwards is a fan of throwing a LOT of obstacles and roadblocks in front of her MCs, soooooo.... a beloved secondary character and good friend to Hadley is kidnapped and a second contender for the POA position strolls into Atlanta - the gauntlet is beginning to seem the lesser of all evils!
*Note - The word 'Epilogue' has such finality attached to it - and I NEVER want to leave Atlanta... so you can see my dilemma in drumming up enthusiasm for the "Final" "Epilogues" - okay... I had no problem squealing with delight when Badge of Honor hit my Kindle - I just wanted HE to know I could, and would, be happier if say, I KNEW for SURE that Bishop's story is next in line.
*Note - Ambrose spinoff???
Kris
Whiskey & Wit Book Reviews
*Note - The word 'Epilogue' has such finality attached to it - and I NEVER want to leave Atlanta... so you can see my dilemma in drumming up enthusiasm for the "Final" "Epilogues" - okay... I had no problem squealing with delight when Badge of Honor hit my Kindle - I just wanted HE to know I could, and would, be happier if say, I KNEW for SURE that Bishop's story is next in line.
*Note - Ambrose spinoff???
Kris
Whiskey & Wit Book Reviews
October 13, 2022
Finally the time has come for the Gauntlet. The prize Hadley wants - to be the Potentate of Atlanta - is in her grasp. But first she must face the trials and the Grand Dame. Midas and Bishop are helping her train for the exertion of the trials but she must go it alone. Well, not quite. Suddenly competition in the form of a potentate from a different city shows up for the trials as well. And if that isn't enough to throw her, an old friend is kidnapped and the kidnappers want her to lose the trials or he's dead.
Never a dull moment! But luckily she has made some very fierce friends.
Hadley has brought together factions of paranormals in the city in a way no one before her has been able to do. She cares about each faction and shows no favoritism even though she is mated to a gwyllgi. She has grown to love Atlanta and has shown them she will do what she must to keep it safe. But has it been enough?
In true Hadley fashion she flouts the rules and stares danger in the face to try to save the day, save her friend, save the city and win that coveted title.
The title of this says The Epilogues Part 1....I can't wait to see Part2, 3?
I fell in love with hadley's character, Midas, Ambrose, Tisdale, Bishop, Milo, Hank :), Ford and the rest and want to see where life takes them.
Never a dull moment! But luckily she has made some very fierce friends.
Hadley has brought together factions of paranormals in the city in a way no one before her has been able to do. She cares about each faction and shows no favoritism even though she is mated to a gwyllgi. She has grown to love Atlanta and has shown them she will do what she must to keep it safe. But has it been enough?
In true Hadley fashion she flouts the rules and stares danger in the face to try to save the day, save her friend, save the city and win that coveted title.
The title of this says The Epilogues Part 1....I can't wait to see Part2, 3?
I fell in love with hadley's character, Midas, Ambrose, Tisdale, Bishop, Milo, Hank :), Ford and the rest and want to see where life takes them.
May 28, 2021
Effort vs Talent
I have been known to give unkind reviews. Even in regard to the original series, The Beginner’s Guide to Necromancy, although I loved the series itself, the epilogues tap danced all over my last nerve. In each successive addition, Grier becomes more passive and Lethe becomes more overbearing and vile. Ultimately, I found myself viscerally loathing the Lethe Kinase character to the point that I no longer enjoy reading the original series because I no longer respected Grier as a character.
When book 5 of POA ended without Hadley becoming the POA, I felt nonplussed. It was a good book and a great series, but like TBGTN, the story felt unfinished with questions unanswered. This is an epilogue worthy of the characters and the earlier books. Although readers apparently will never find out why DORA is called DORA, Hadley finally bonds with Atlanta in the most true-to-character high-stakes form (I literally cried when the pride and gwyllgi and warg packs met her in the gauntlet) and we learn more about Hadley’s OPA team.
I have been known to give unkind reviews. Even in regard to the original series, The Beginner’s Guide to Necromancy, although I loved the series itself, the epilogues tap danced all over my last nerve. In each successive addition, Grier becomes more passive and Lethe becomes more overbearing and vile. Ultimately, I found myself viscerally loathing the Lethe Kinase character to the point that I no longer enjoy reading the original series because I no longer respected Grier as a character.
When book 5 of POA ended without Hadley becoming the POA, I felt nonplussed. It was a good book and a great series, but like TBGTN, the story felt unfinished with questions unanswered. This is an epilogue worthy of the characters and the earlier books. Although readers apparently will never find out why DORA is called DORA, Hadley finally bonds with Atlanta in the most true-to-character high-stakes form (I literally cried when the pride and gwyllgi and warg packs met her in the gauntlet) and we learn more about Hadley’s OPA team.
June 14, 2024
This book shows up a few different ways online. Sometimes it says this is part of the series, sometimes part of the larger epilogue world, but I’d recommend reading this as a very satisfying conclusion to the POA storyline.
Hadley is working on getting the final prep done for her Star Trek themed wedding, while also training for her “final exam” for the POA role she’s essentially been doing this whole time. The vote appears to be in the bag, what with her, ya know, saving the city a whole bunch of times. But there’s a bit of doubt thrown in when a contender is announced with experience being a potentate from another city. While the team (and the city) rally to support Hadley, there’s a lot more at play than just a fair fight.
Midas, of course, has her back 1000%, as does his pack. It was great to see most of the familiar faces resurface to truly put a nice bow around the end of this series. We do finally see a test, the outcome, and even some HEA in Hadley’s future (hopefully). I couldn’t have asked for more in a finale to a great series. This is definitely a must read.
Hadley is working on getting the final prep done for her Star Trek themed wedding, while also training for her “final exam” for the POA role she’s essentially been doing this whole time. The vote appears to be in the bag, what with her, ya know, saving the city a whole bunch of times. But there’s a bit of doubt thrown in when a contender is announced with experience being a potentate from another city. While the team (and the city) rally to support Hadley, there’s a lot more at play than just a fair fight.
Midas, of course, has her back 1000%, as does his pack. It was great to see most of the familiar faces resurface to truly put a nice bow around the end of this series. We do finally see a test, the outcome, and even some HEA in Hadley’s future (hopefully). I couldn’t have asked for more in a finale to a great series. This is definitely a must read.
September 26, 2022
This felt a little rushed. That might be in relation to recent books, however (45hrs to 6hrs is a HUGE difference!) I'm not sure why I don't feel like I can give it an honest 4 stars. It doesn't feel like 3, but it didn't blow my mind with excitement like the others, either.
I was shocked that when Hadley showed up to the gauntlet, they fought only vampires-with Sue almost dying immediately-and then they both left without finishing?? Super anticlimactic. It also had no build-up, it was suddenly day of. (And then the second time, it was all pomp. I LOVED the support she received, and I did cry, but talk about a completely useless "trial!") We spent more time talking about the wedding, I'm sure.
I felt like Sue was supposed to be intelligent, but she wasn't trying to lead them to figure out what happened, as evidenced by her surprise at being found. That was disappointing. I'm glad she was nice, and I loved the premise, but I wish she had been formidable at all (see, nearly dying because of a handful of vampires above).
Neely was a weird choice of hostage. Even after reading, I'm still not sure why him? But it worked out.
Milo was a huge surprise!!!!
It was so nice to finally hear Hadley say that she was "enough" as a mantra. It's also nice that she's been the same bratty badass the entire time; no matter who she encounters, she's herself. Inspiration as a writer, and as a person.
I thought this was going to be the last book- it took me entirely too long to realize that what she'd "forgotten" (at the end) was the entire dark witch coven who's been hell-bent on stopping her this entire time. I'm not sure how to receive that news, since the last book hasn't been written yet. This is already book six, and they're so short. I also hate waiting when I could binge. We'll see if it's the last one and how it goes...
I was shocked that when Hadley showed up to the gauntlet, they fought only vampires-with Sue almost dying immediately-and then they both left without finishing?? Super anticlimactic. It also had no build-up, it was suddenly day of. (And then the second time, it was all pomp. I LOVED the support she received, and I did cry, but talk about a completely useless "trial!") We spent more time talking about the wedding, I'm sure.
I felt like Sue was supposed to be intelligent, but she wasn't trying to lead them to figure out what happened, as evidenced by her surprise at being found. That was disappointing. I'm glad she was nice, and I loved the premise, but I wish she had been formidable at all (see, nearly dying because of a handful of vampires above).
Neely was a weird choice of hostage. Even after reading, I'm still not sure why him? But it worked out.
Milo was a huge surprise!!!!
It was so nice to finally hear Hadley say that she was "enough" as a mantra. It's also nice that she's been the same bratty badass the entire time; no matter who she encounters, she's herself. Inspiration as a writer, and as a person.
I thought this was going to be the last book- it took me entirely too long to realize that what she'd "forgotten" (at the end) was the entire dark witch coven who's been hell-bent on stopping her this entire time. I'm not sure how to receive that news, since the last book hasn't been written yet. This is already book six, and they're so short. I also hate waiting when I could binge. We'll see if it's the last one and how it goes...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2022
Ok series, but I have some issues some of which may be because I haven’t read the series that this is a spin off from. Firstly, the entire premise that someone would pick Hadley for this job - knowing that she’ll have to lie to everyone always and if it comes out there would be a riot - seems silly. There’s a difference between giving someone a role where they can make a difference and giving them a ton of power and responsibility they could abuse. Sure, if she starts a killing spree, they’ll stop her, but there’s a lot of space there for her to do dodgy stuff. Ok, let’s put that aside. Hadley was a decent character, I thought her struggles and insecurities were well written, but so was her confidence and her defence mechanisms. The relationship development was all pretty shallow though, although I really liked Hadley and Midas’ mum - that’s an interesting dynamic and really works.
June 30, 2025
Not enough Linus in this book!
And Grier is just a shadow. They shouldn't even count as friends. They don't really talk, they don't communicate much- neither know what's going on with each other. Its not even in different phases in life, because neither makes an attempt to even have a normal convo with each other.
The gauntlet seemed to be unnecessary. I really didn't think this book was a good conclusion to the series. Honestly, the last few books seemed like they were really Meh! Maybe I shouldn't have read them back to back.
The big bad wasn't big nor bad. I want tangible villains, if I was ok with vague threats, I would just read news constantly. Who needs fantasy when real world is just a giant shit basket?
Anyway, I still thought there were a few funny parts, but all in all it was an unsatisfying conclusion. Especially since this felt like a novella.
And Grier is just a shadow. They shouldn't even count as friends. They don't really talk, they don't communicate much- neither know what's going on with each other. Its not even in different phases in life, because neither makes an attempt to even have a normal convo with each other.
The gauntlet seemed to be unnecessary. I really didn't think this book was a good conclusion to the series. Honestly, the last few books seemed like they were really Meh! Maybe I shouldn't have read them back to back.
The big bad wasn't big nor bad. I want tangible villains, if I was ok with vague threats, I would just read news constantly. Who needs fantasy when real world is just a giant shit basket?
Anyway, I still thought there were a few funny parts, but all in all it was an unsatisfying conclusion. Especially since this felt like a novella.
October 11, 2021
Tying up loose ends.
This is one of the few authors who comes back to tell readers about the HEA. The series novels have wonderful closure but these novellas are one more adventure to remind us that after the long engagements / wedding / honeymoon that these characters still have a little more life to share with us. And although a gauntlet and wedding could be another full novel for Hadley we get some secrets revealed and the chance to see her achieve another milestone. In this case the Gauntlet that will officially cement her title as Potentate of Atlanta. It has a cute little mystery that satisfactorily ends and happiness & the good guys prevail.
Happy to read about characters moving on in life who I have valued through 2 series thus far.
This is one of the few authors who comes back to tell readers about the HEA. The series novels have wonderful closure but these novellas are one more adventure to remind us that after the long engagements / wedding / honeymoon that these characters still have a little more life to share with us. And although a gauntlet and wedding could be another full novel for Hadley we get some secrets revealed and the chance to see her achieve another milestone. In this case the Gauntlet that will officially cement her title as Potentate of Atlanta. It has a cute little mystery that satisfactorily ends and happiness & the good guys prevail.
Happy to read about characters moving on in life who I have valued through 2 series thus far.
April 18, 2023
The Epilogues: Part I
Hadley has worked her butt off to earn her title as Potentate of Atlanta. All that’s left for her is the gauntlet. A show of prowess for the citizens of Atlanta. A taste of what their new POA can do. She’s ready to dazzle them and bring home the prize.
Until an old friend gets kidnapped. The price of his freedom? Her flunking the gauntlet.
Either she gives up on her dream or her friend.
For Hadley, there’s only once choice.
Heather's Notes
So this was a great ending to this series. It says epilogue part 1 so maybe there will be more epilogues, while I will still prefer Greer, I also like Hadley and enjoyed watching her grow. I would love to see Tisdale take on Hadley's mom.
Hadley has worked her butt off to earn her title as Potentate of Atlanta. All that’s left for her is the gauntlet. A show of prowess for the citizens of Atlanta. A taste of what their new POA can do. She’s ready to dazzle them and bring home the prize.
Until an old friend gets kidnapped. The price of his freedom? Her flunking the gauntlet.
Either she gives up on her dream or her friend.
For Hadley, there’s only once choice.
Heather's Notes
So this was a great ending to this series. It says epilogue part 1 so maybe there will be more epilogues, while I will still prefer Greer, I also like Hadley and enjoyed watching her grow. I would love to see Tisdale take on Hadley's mom.
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