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The Fantastic Fluke #5
Fluke and the Fantastic Finale
For centuries, the Believer cult has preyed on arcane mages from their place in the shadows. Now, for better or worse, Sage has taken arcane magic public, and all eyes are on him. While he’s not comfortable in the spotlight, neither is the cult that wants him dead.
But the Believers aren’t quite ready to give up yet.
In this fifth and final book in The Fantastic Fluke series, they’ll take their shot at burning down Sage’s whole network of friends and associates, by whatever means necessary.
But the Believers aren’t quite ready to give up yet.
In this fifth and final book in The Fantastic Fluke series, they’ll take their shot at burning down Sage’s whole network of friends and associates, by whatever means necessary.
Hardcover
First published August 25, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
September 21, 2025
Startling!!!
A great way to end this series, this final adventure was truly exciting, again it got even crazier, the plot was very entertaining, the action scenes were amazing, I am going to miss the characters, especially the main and the fox, the love making scenes were delightful, full of steam, passion, romance and above it all, love, just the way I like! Kudos to Sam Burns for this relaxing and exhilarating saga!!!!
This series was really delightful however, I have to say, I missed the original formula, the course of this series' adventure changed a couple times and I'm not a fan of that!
Even if this series got crazy directions, I had a lot of fun and I'm satisfied!!!
Zachary Johnson gave again another marvellous performance, I was so pleased, superb acting, completely committed, I was having goosebumps. I totally appreciate when the narrator is fully engaged, so I was definitely pleased, I had a blast! He definitely made the book better! Congratulations!!!
4⭐️
A great way to end this series, this final adventure was truly exciting, again it got even crazier, the plot was very entertaining, the action scenes were amazing, I am going to miss the characters, especially the main and the fox, the love making scenes were delightful, full of steam, passion, romance and above it all, love, just the way I like! Kudos to Sam Burns for this relaxing and exhilarating saga!!!!
This series was really delightful however, I have to say, I missed the original formula, the course of this series' adventure changed a couple times and I'm not a fan of that!
Even if this series got crazy directions, I had a lot of fun and I'm satisfied!!!
Zachary Johnson gave again another marvellous performance, I was so pleased, superb acting, completely committed, I was having goosebumps. I totally appreciate when the narrator is fully engaged, so I was definitely pleased, I had a blast! He definitely made the book better! Congratulations!!!
4⭐️
August 31, 2022
Sage came a long way from the insecure, self-doubting social mage with low magic to the grounded next door super-mage. Wouldn't have happened without finding a loving found-family, a patient and gorgeous lover and definitely not without Fluke, the best familiar in the history of familiars.
Now we got the last book of the series and regardless of some blood it's a nice, cozy mystery that brings closure to some still open story lines but I can't help it: a lot of it was too easy, some of it even by-the-way and also the one scene at the end with a potential of more, was solved rather quick and was more to show how friendly, thoughtful and untempted by the immense power Sage is, than adding a little needed tension or action.
So the Fantastic Finale includes everything a finale is expected to include, except that certain nostalgic feeling, but it was more a celebration of found family than a last, big adventure.
Now we got the last book of the series and regardless of some blood it's a nice, cozy mystery that brings closure to some still open story lines but I can't help it: a lot of it was too easy, some of it even by-the-way and also the one scene at the end with a potential of more, was solved rather quick and was more to show how friendly, thoughtful and untempted by the immense power Sage is, than adding a little needed tension or action.
So the Fantastic Finale includes everything a finale is expected to include, except that certain nostalgic feeling, but it was more a celebration of found family than a last, big adventure.
September 2, 2022
A fast-paced and fun read, it was good getting to see everyone coming to their own, get their happy endings, and tie up all the loose ends.
This is a really fun series. What I like best about this is that even though everything's tied up, there's definitely an open door for more stories of the universe. And I for one really hope that we get them.
This is a really fun series. What I like best about this is that even though everything's tied up, there's definitely an open door for more stories of the universe. And I for one really hope that we get them.
October 17, 2022
No idea where my original review went so posting it again.
***
Gutted it's over but what a way to go out!
I cannot tell you how much I've loved this series, I'm sad this is the final novel but it's a cracking way to round off Sage's adventures with his foxy familiar Fluke.
Before I started reading this one I'd been having a think over how it might all wrap up but I have to say, I'd never have guessed this ending no matter how many goes I had.
It was clever, a great way to pull all the disparate threads together and tie them off, while still having leeway to come back in the future.
Sage has truly come into his own now as an arcane mage and I've loved watching his journey along that path, Gideon at his side as well as the rest of the wonderful menagerie of people and familiars Sam has created in this world.
Here the pacing was superb as we went on a rollercoaster of a ride which never seemed to let up as, for once, Sage actually finds someone in authority who not only isn't trying to kill him, but who's as determined as he is to see justice done.
I love Quinn Pike almost as much as I love Sage, Gideon and Freddie. He's dedicated and completely willing to help Sage end the threat of the Believers cult and he snd Sage's budding friendship is another delightful addition to the book.
No spoilers here on the plot but I was thoroughly satisfied with how everything played out and how it all linked back through the earlier books.
While I wish this series was going to run on and on, this really is a fantastic way to say goodbye.
***
Gutted it's over but what a way to go out!
I cannot tell you how much I've loved this series, I'm sad this is the final novel but it's a cracking way to round off Sage's adventures with his foxy familiar Fluke.
Before I started reading this one I'd been having a think over how it might all wrap up but I have to say, I'd never have guessed this ending no matter how many goes I had.
It was clever, a great way to pull all the disparate threads together and tie them off, while still having leeway to come back in the future.
Sage has truly come into his own now as an arcane mage and I've loved watching his journey along that path, Gideon at his side as well as the rest of the wonderful menagerie of people and familiars Sam has created in this world.
Here the pacing was superb as we went on a rollercoaster of a ride which never seemed to let up as, for once, Sage actually finds someone in authority who not only isn't trying to kill him, but who's as determined as he is to see justice done.
I love Quinn Pike almost as much as I love Sage, Gideon and Freddie. He's dedicated and completely willing to help Sage end the threat of the Believers cult and he snd Sage's budding friendship is another delightful addition to the book.
No spoilers here on the plot but I was thoroughly satisfied with how everything played out and how it all linked back through the earlier books.
While I wish this series was going to run on and on, this really is a fantastic way to say goodbye.
February 7, 2024
2.75/5 and I’m mildly disappointed in this one.
I was bored. Bored for almost 70% of the book. There was lots and lots of talking. And that was about it.
Sure, the last part of the story was a bit more eventful but compared to the other books and their action packed scenes this was mild as hell.
The plot didn’t really fit the series at all too. It felt more like a sad attempt to find an end to this story. It did not feel like a proper ending to a really great series.
I am really just disappointed.
I was bored. Bored for almost 70% of the book. There was lots and lots of talking. And that was about it.
Sure, the last part of the story was a bit more eventful but compared to the other books and their action packed scenes this was mild as hell.
The plot didn’t really fit the series at all too. It felt more like a sad attempt to find an end to this story. It did not feel like a proper ending to a really great series.
I am really just disappointed.
September 1, 2024
Gonna miss you guys
May 30, 2025
A bit whomp-whomp but still enjoyable.
I still maintain this is more queer lit than romance. The wedding was the dullest part of the book. I also really missed Freddy in this book. He was barely in it.
I will dearly miss these characters though.
I still maintain this is more queer lit than romance. The wedding was the dullest part of the book. I also really missed Freddy in this book. He was barely in it.
I will dearly miss these characters though.
August 28, 2022
Solid conclusion to what's been a light and enjoyable series! Very light on the romance aspect, but the series has been trending that way since the couple got together in the first book. Still, I appreciated where the arc ended, and did enjoy it overall. Not the most memorable or tightly written book, but I knew that going into it.
August 24, 2022
Oh how I'm gonna miss the gang!!! I do hope that Freddy will get his own novella/novel (and if I'm wishing for things can I just throw that I'd love it to be a cozy murder mystery-esque one? I mean I can totally picture Freddy rocking a pipe (not lighted) with a tweed beret and Flit on his shoulder with a monocle for dramatic effect!).
This last adventure of Sage's, very lovingly cemented his found family and finding himself when things so dramatically changed for him in the last year and a half. Even if in the beginning he spend quite the time drenched in guilt that wasn't his, for things that weren't his doing and feeling miserable for not having anything to do. Yes it was building up to what happened mid-way on but it took some doing.
I loved the epilogue, especially for Aliyah's sake, and I loved how Sam handled the finale, some fireworks but mostly focused on Sage and the gang to get through the mess they were pushed in, and it was amazing!
Also loved me some Sage and Gideon loving! I missed it!
The reason I'm going with 4 stars instead of 5 is because I feel that what happened to Roberta Shaw and the Marlett estate fell by the wayside, the purchased coffee shop was never mentioned again -I'd like to think that maybe Sterling took it over just for the bonds between Quinn, Sage and the others get stronger-, the whole Believer cult was never substantiated and it felt like a cult made in haste rather than something that existed for 200 years.
Anyway I can't deny that despite that it was one of the most enjoyable reads I had in a while, that felt quick and not tire me, since I fell into a slump at the end of May.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
This last adventure of Sage's, very lovingly cemented his found family and finding himself when things so dramatically changed for him in the last year and a half. Even if in the beginning he spend quite the time drenched in guilt that wasn't his, for things that weren't his doing and feeling miserable for not having anything to do. Yes it was building up to what happened mid-way on but it took some doing.
I loved the epilogue, especially for Aliyah's sake, and I loved how Sam handled the finale, some fireworks but mostly focused on Sage and the gang to get through the mess they were pushed in, and it was amazing!
Also loved me some Sage and Gideon loving! I missed it!
The reason I'm going with 4 stars instead of 5 is because I feel that what happened to Roberta Shaw and the Marlett estate fell by the wayside, the purchased coffee shop was never mentioned again -I'd like to think that maybe Sterling took it over just for the bonds between Quinn, Sage and the others get stronger-, the whole Believer cult was never substantiated and it felt like a cult made in haste rather than something that existed for 200 years.
Anyway I can't deny that despite that it was one of the most enjoyable reads I had in a while, that felt quick and not tire me, since I fell into a slump at the end of May.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
September 1, 2022
Endings and good-byes are some of the hardest things to do and with Fluke and the Fantastic Finale the story and adventures of Sage and Gideon came to a close. I was not ready to say farewell to these characters.
This has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions and twists and turns. So much has happened and changed for Sage and Gideon throughout the series. The resolution and the build up to it was worth it, though I wish there was more done with regards to the whole Believer cult aspect.
The found family vibes that has been present in every book in this series was fully solidified and cemented here and I am all for it. Sage deserved all the happiness after all the trouble he had to go through.
This has been an enjoyable read and I do recommend giving this book and the entire series a read.
A solid 4.25 stars out of 5 stars for me.
I received an ARC of this book and I have chosen to publish my fair and honest review.
This has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions and twists and turns. So much has happened and changed for Sage and Gideon throughout the series. The resolution and the build up to it was worth it, though I wish there was more done with regards to the whole Believer cult aspect.
The found family vibes that has been present in every book in this series was fully solidified and cemented here and I am all for it. Sage deserved all the happiness after all the trouble he had to go through.
This has been an enjoyable read and I do recommend giving this book and the entire series a read.
A solid 4.25 stars out of 5 stars for me.
I received an ARC of this book and I have chosen to publish my fair and honest review.
November 14, 2022
Solid conclusion to an entertaining series. What I enjoyed most about the series were the relationships between Sage and Gideon and their friends, families and familiars. This final book was more focused on tying up the remaining loose ends with the Believers. From that aspect, I found the plot engaging and satisfying and I enjoyed the new relationship development between Sage and the investigative team, Quinn and Torres. Unfortunately we didn’t get much time with Iris, Freddy, Anson or Beez and even the time with Gideon and Fluke was rather spare. This was really about Sage as he carves out a new place for himself in the world as an ‘out’ arcane mage and works to make the world and the Aureum safe places for arcane and other oppressed/stigmatized mages.
Even though my rating for Fluke and the Fantastic Finale is a bit lower than the previous four books, it’s mainly because I wanted more Freddy, more Fluke, more Flit, more of that strong family aspect that was what captivated me the most in this series. Still, it was a very satisfying end to an enchanting series.
3.25 stars
Even though my rating for Fluke and the Fantastic Finale is a bit lower than the previous four books, it’s mainly because I wanted more Freddy, more Fluke, more Flit, more of that strong family aspect that was what captivated me the most in this series. Still, it was a very satisfying end to an enchanting series.
3.25 stars
September 16, 2022
Awesome, amazing, fantastic. I'll miss this series. If Sam wants to do a bonus with Freddy, I'd be joyful.
June 23, 2023
After everything that Sage and Fluke have been through, its time for one last push to oust the corruption in the Aureum and take down the Believers once and for all. Joining Quinn to help the investigation and to try to stop a wrongful death case against Jordan, Sage faces his fears and fully comes into his powers/
This final entry in the series really felt like an extended epilogue that got too wordy and turned into a full book. That said: I'm happy it did. I love the characters in this series deeply so having this 241 page wrap up of all of the lose ends that still remained after book four was really nice.
Burns did an exceptional job at at creating unique and wonderful characters throughout this series and watching Sage discover his true family, some biological and some found, was a treat. I love a found family trope in books. Fluke is obviously the best character. The sass that Burns gives Fluke is a pure joy.
I highly recommend this book (and series) though, if you're already reading the series I'm sure you wouldn't skip this one anyway.
This final entry in the series really felt like an extended epilogue that got too wordy and turned into a full book. That said: I'm happy it did. I love the characters in this series deeply so having this 241 page wrap up of all of the lose ends that still remained after book four was really nice.
Burns did an exceptional job at at creating unique and wonderful characters throughout this series and watching Sage discover his true family, some biological and some found, was a treat. I love a found family trope in books. Fluke is obviously the best character. The sass that Burns gives Fluke is a pure joy.
I highly recommend this book (and series) though, if you're already reading the series I'm sure you wouldn't skip this one anyway.
January 1, 2023
NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! It can't be over! I'm so sad that this series is ending! I love Fluke and Sage and Gideon and all their friends. I want more and more in this world. It's just so lovely.
Ok whining over, this was a "fantastic finale." I loved seeing Sage finally able to actively practice his magic without hiding. This finally felt like him getting to step out into the light and actively put an end to the Believers and all the horror that they have been for arcane mages for so many generations. I adored Quinn in this story. I loved seeing Sage finally have someone in the quaesitor's office that he could actually trust. And of course I knew exactly with where Quinn was going with all of his hinting. Umm, yeah duh!
Everyone in this world just brings me joy. I really hope that this does continue with a spin off series with Sage fully stepping into his new role and just what that search mission entails. And heck, Fluke absolutely needs to be matching up some more mages and their familiars! Fluke's one of my all time favorite characters. He's adorableness personified!
Ok whining over, this was a "fantastic finale." I loved seeing Sage finally able to actively practice his magic without hiding. This finally felt like him getting to step out into the light and actively put an end to the Believers and all the horror that they have been for arcane mages for so many generations. I adored Quinn in this story. I loved seeing Sage finally have someone in the quaesitor's office that he could actually trust. And of course I knew exactly with where Quinn was going with all of his hinting. Umm, yeah duh!
Everyone in this world just brings me joy. I really hope that this does continue with a spin off series with Sage fully stepping into his new role and just what that search mission entails. And heck, Fluke absolutely needs to be matching up some more mages and their familiars! Fluke's one of my all time favorite characters. He's adorableness personified!
January 6, 2023
This review is for the complete series.
I listened to all audiobooks of this series. The first book was a solid 4 stars for me – The story itself had some plotholes or maybe missing information and some stuff just happened to fast and to me it was kind of unclear why. But despite that it was very entertaining, the whole concept is interesting, and the characters are all well done. I enjoyed Fluke a lot. I loved Joel Leslie as a narrator and found he was the perfect fit. So I bought the next audiobooks, too.
I hadn’t paid attention – the rest of the books are narrated by Zachary Johnson. Now…I admit, I was kind of thrown when I started the second book. I expected Joel’s lively voice and got the more serious tone of Zachary. So it took me a while to get back into the flow of the story. But I willingly admit – I got used to it.
The story progressed really well, I kind of no longer noticed if some abilities weren’t explained clearly or made sense – the cast of characters is so entertaining, I just went with the flow. Suspicious mind that I am, I expected some of the additional side characters to be not as good as they seemed to be but it actually is a very clear cut cast, they are what you see. The whole storyline goes through all books and is satisfyingly solved. There is potential for spin-offs – I hope there will be some. Fluke plays more prominent roles in the books – still I feel he is a bit underrepresented.
But all in all this was a solid, very entertaining series, that I recommend and which will make me check out the other series of this author.
I listened to all audiobooks of this series. The first book was a solid 4 stars for me – The story itself had some plotholes or maybe missing information and some stuff just happened to fast and to me it was kind of unclear why. But despite that it was very entertaining, the whole concept is interesting, and the characters are all well done. I enjoyed Fluke a lot. I loved Joel Leslie as a narrator and found he was the perfect fit. So I bought the next audiobooks, too.
I hadn’t paid attention – the rest of the books are narrated by Zachary Johnson. Now…I admit, I was kind of thrown when I started the second book. I expected Joel’s lively voice and got the more serious tone of Zachary. So it took me a while to get back into the flow of the story. But I willingly admit – I got used to it.
The story progressed really well, I kind of no longer noticed if some abilities weren’t explained clearly or made sense – the cast of characters is so entertaining, I just went with the flow. Suspicious mind that I am, I expected some of the additional side characters to be not as good as they seemed to be but it actually is a very clear cut cast, they are what you see. The whole storyline goes through all books and is satisfyingly solved. There is potential for spin-offs – I hope there will be some. Fluke plays more prominent roles in the books – still I feel he is a bit underrepresented.
But all in all this was a solid, very entertaining series, that I recommend and which will make me check out the other series of this author.
August 25, 2022
Fluke and the Fantastic Finale is the fifth book in The Fantastic Fluke series, and it was simply fantastic!! This story was a roller coaster ride of emotions for me as we have to say goodbye to Sage, Gideon, Fluke and their family and found family. The build up of the Believer Cult has its just ending, thankfully! I did love how everything was wrapped up although there wasn’t a huge finale, it was a happy and satisfying ending. The world building within the series is fantastic and engaging. Overall, a fantastic read! Well written with great pacing that hooked me!
August 25, 2022
Time to say goodbye to Fluke, sweet sage and hot Gideon! I do not want to give anything away since you will have just read an entire series before this book! This last story was fun and full of our favorite engaging characters as always! The ending was sweet, subtle and comfortable which was fitting for a series that has been so full of adventure and family!
October 14, 2022
Great end to a great series.
That was the perfect end! I’m sad that this is the last book yet I’m glad I got to enjoy their story! Fluke was awesome, but so we’re the rest of the crew. There was action and danger as well as laughs and comradery.
That was the perfect end! I’m sad that this is the last book yet I’m glad I got to enjoy their story! Fluke was awesome, but so we’re the rest of the crew. There was action and danger as well as laughs and comradery.
November 2, 2022
A great conclusion to the series, but now I want to know what happens with the investigation!
February 20, 2024
Enjoyable story that is well written with likeable characters and good world building. The narration is very good as well.
September 9, 2022
I am so sad it’s over
I hope like heck there will a spin-off with may them working on fixing the magical world and Fluke can find all the little familiars and give them to the witches. I also would love to see Mell and Freddy get their story
I hope like heck there will a spin-off with may them working on fixing the magical world and Fluke can find all the little familiars and give them to the witches. I also would love to see Mell and Freddy get their story
October 19, 2025
What a way to end the series. I loved it. And it’s such an interesting way to end, well start, Sage’s new career that I think he’s perfect for.
I’m going to miss Sage, Gideon, Fluke and the family so much.
I could read so many more books about their adventures and never get bored.
I’m going to miss Sage, Gideon, Fluke and the family so much.
I could read so many more books about their adventures and never get bored.
September 15, 2022
Review to come!
January 29, 2026
A fantastic finale indeed. I will miss these characters and especially Fluke 🥹
September 26, 2023
"Fluke and the Fantastic Finale" ist der 5. und letzte Band von "The Fantastic Fluke" und obwohl ich den Roman jetzt schon mehrfach gelesen habe, überkommt mich bei diesem Band immer ein wenig Wehmut, weil die Geschichte jetzt von Sage, seinem Fuchs-Vertrauten Fluke und seinem Lebensgefährten Gideon sowie ihrer bunten Bande aus Familie und Freunden jetzt zu Ende geht.
Aber es ist auch der krönende Abschluss von einer über 2 Jahre erstreckenden Reihe, in der sich Sage von einem Niemand zum erfahrenen Magier bis hin zum magischen Superhelden (nicht dass Sage sich selbst so sehen würde), wie ihn die Bewohner von Junction teilweise inzwischen sehen, entwickelt hat. Er ist über sich hinausgewachsen, hat seine magischen Kräfte entdeckt und entfaltet, einen Vertrauten gefunden, seine große Liebe kennen gelernt, ist mit seiner Familie vereint worden, hat dunkle Geheimnisse aus seiner Vergangenheit entdeckt, ist in die Vergangenheit gereist, hat Entführungen und Attentate überstanden und hat die Stadt gerettet. Es ist gibt nichts, was Sage nicht schon erlebt hätte ... oder?
Hah! Sam Burns wäre nicht Sam Burns, wenn sie sich nicht für das Finale ein paar große Überraschungen und Entwicklungen überlegt hätte. Und so muss sich Sage nicht nur den neuen Herausforderungen stellen, die ein Leben als magische Berühmtheit mit sich bringt, sondern er muss auch sein Leben neu sortieren und sich fragen, wer er eigentlich ist, wenn er nicht mehr der Buchhandlungsmitarbeiter und Social Mage vom Rang 2 Sage ist. Und natürlich darf auch die Spannung nicht zu kurz kommen, weshalb sich Sage erneut alten und neuen Feinden stellen muss.
Mir hat "Fluke and the Fantastic Finale" wieder mega gut gefallen und ich hoffe, dass die Autorin irgendwann in einer anderen Reihe vielleicht noch mal mit einem Wiedersehen mit Sage, Fluke und Co. überrascht.
Aber es ist auch der krönende Abschluss von einer über 2 Jahre erstreckenden Reihe, in der sich Sage von einem Niemand zum erfahrenen Magier bis hin zum magischen Superhelden (nicht dass Sage sich selbst so sehen würde), wie ihn die Bewohner von Junction teilweise inzwischen sehen, entwickelt hat. Er ist über sich hinausgewachsen, hat seine magischen Kräfte entdeckt und entfaltet, einen Vertrauten gefunden, seine große Liebe kennen gelernt, ist mit seiner Familie vereint worden, hat dunkle Geheimnisse aus seiner Vergangenheit entdeckt, ist in die Vergangenheit gereist, hat Entführungen und Attentate überstanden und hat die Stadt gerettet. Es ist gibt nichts, was Sage nicht schon erlebt hätte ... oder?
Hah! Sam Burns wäre nicht Sam Burns, wenn sie sich nicht für das Finale ein paar große Überraschungen und Entwicklungen überlegt hätte. Und so muss sich Sage nicht nur den neuen Herausforderungen stellen, die ein Leben als magische Berühmtheit mit sich bringt, sondern er muss auch sein Leben neu sortieren und sich fragen, wer er eigentlich ist, wenn er nicht mehr der Buchhandlungsmitarbeiter und Social Mage vom Rang 2 Sage ist. Und natürlich darf auch die Spannung nicht zu kurz kommen, weshalb sich Sage erneut alten und neuen Feinden stellen muss.
Mir hat "Fluke and the Fantastic Finale" wieder mega gut gefallen und ich hoffe, dass die Autorin irgendwann in einer anderen Reihe vielleicht noch mal mit einem Wiedersehen mit Sage, Fluke und Co. überrascht.
January 11, 2024
Glad to finally have the last book out in audio format and there were cute moments but this was more of an underwhelming finale than a fantastic one. Fluke didn't have to actively do much to get to the bottom of things, Gideon was very much in the background, and all the beloved side characters were barely present. Should have been twice as long with a lot more detailed work from Fluke and crew to make the ending feel like more of a payoff. It isn't bad just not what I hoped for.
September 15, 2022
I really hope this isn't the last book about Sage, Fluke and Gideon because I need more. This is one of my favorite series and I would love a second serie taking up where this ended.
It was a perfect end but leaving me wanting for more.
Everything was neatly wrapped up and put together with a bow on top.
It was a perfect end but leaving me wanting for more.
Everything was neatly wrapped up and put together with a bow on top.
September 5, 2022
Rating (Scale of 1-5) =
4.5 - I definitely felt it was not only a nice wrap up to the series, but I enjoyed it much more than the previous one.
Blurb = 3 stars
My Genre Scale = 4.5 stars
Odds if not your genre = 2 stars, especially if one hasn't been reading the series.
Development of: =
*World = 3.5 stars, by this 5th book, not a lot of world development is needed. The scenes are well developed and descriptive.
*Characters = 4.5 stars especially over the whole of the series for Sage and even Freddy. Gideon, due to his long life and experiences, had less areas of growth needed. But Sage, he really grew into himself and in confidence.
*Plot = All plot strands were tied up nicely including what our M/C's will be doing in their future.
What stood out (taking in consideration I've completed over 2000 m/m books) = Not much really stood out, but I did appreciate the wrap up to the little side story of the Racoon and trash.
Mood Type : Appeal to those looking for... (and /or those who should avoid) These are light on angst and over the top drama. They do move along at a nice pace without overly complicated resolutions. The love between the established couple is solid and heartfelt. There is only one sex scene that I remember. The "Scooby Gang" is diverse an interesting.
Warnings = None
HFN/HEA = Most definitely
Series Notes = 5th and final
*Reading on? N/A
*Reading back to back? Only the 4th and the 5th. I read the 3rd last December, and the 1st two in Feb. of 2021. I purposely waited for the 5th and final book, before reading the 4th.
*Can be easily read without the previous? I think the story could be followed, but without the context of the previous books a lot would be missed or not fully understood.
Rating Notes = (SubPlots, thoughts, etc... )
I must admit to some relief that it ended so strongly for me, after how blasé I felt about the 4th. Though, I did appreciate all that was revealed and learned. Plus, it was nice that Gideon's backstory received closure. But even with all that, I had not particularly liked or enjoyed it. But this final installment, I loved. I stayed really engaged. I was pleased how well things were wrapped up, and I loved seeing the guys getting married. It was a great final installment for those of us that have grown to love all these characters from Junction.
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Below is my philosophy on reviewing!
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1. I try to take into account and note common pet peeves noted by other readers
2. "Brain candy' does not necessarily carry a negative connotation. (What is brain candy? Publishing industry 's version of pop music - Typically: formulaic, from a prolific author published often and quickly (like monthly), things escalate fast, and are often solved easily etc..) It has its uses: to pass time when tired, on the beach, etc... The problem comes when "brain candy" is unexpected or even disguised.
3. Why rate the blurbs? :
Like many readers, I do not like to think I'm reading one kind of story; just to end up with another. But...I also don't think a book should be docked stars for being as stated. If I don't like stories about "_________", and I choose to read it; I shouldn't give it 2 stars based JUST on my preferences. Unless... it wasn't clear in the blurb.
4. Other Factors that effect my perspective when reviewing:
Since 2009, I have exclusively read m/m. My 1st was in 2007. I am a Kindle diehard, and I never do audio for m/m. I read at least 100+ books a year - with an average length of 220± pages. My Goodreads lifetime rating (at the start of 2022) was a 3.60 average for 1715 books. Which considering, one should be better at picking out books the more one reads, I feel is an accurate average. I have over 800 reviews within the m/m genre here on Goodreads.
5. I'm really confused by reviews that consist of just 2 to 3 sentences - with no explanation or evidence. I'm even more baffled when it receives "likes". I'm unsure of how it is useful to others on whether or not to pick a book, for example: "It was a fun read". Umm okay... What made it fun? For that matter, what do you define as fun? Do not even get me started on people who have rated over a 1000 books with a 4.99 rating average. How is that helpful? And there's is absolutely no way that every book is above average great / 5 star read. Why even bother to rate books?
6. I am not a writer nor a wordsmith, but I am a passionate reader. I joined the m/m group years ago, but I mostly lurk. I like to ask questions, debate, and quite possibly play Devil's advocate - which is hard to do online, with unknown people - to whom you are also an unknown- and no body language is available to convey intent. Plus, true debates seems to be a lost art form where respect and even friendliness can be shown between those with fundamentally different opinions.
4.5 - I definitely felt it was not only a nice wrap up to the series, but I enjoyed it much more than the previous one.
Blurb = 3 stars
My Genre Scale = 4.5 stars
Odds if not your genre = 2 stars, especially if one hasn't been reading the series.
Development of: =
*World = 3.5 stars, by this 5th book, not a lot of world development is needed. The scenes are well developed and descriptive.
*Characters = 4.5 stars especially over the whole of the series for Sage and even Freddy. Gideon, due to his long life and experiences, had less areas of growth needed. But Sage, he really grew into himself and in confidence.
*Plot = All plot strands were tied up nicely including what our M/C's will be doing in their future.
What stood out (taking in consideration I've completed over 2000 m/m books) = Not much really stood out, but I did appreciate the wrap up to the little side story of the Racoon and trash.
Mood Type : Appeal to those looking for... (and /or those who should avoid) These are light on angst and over the top drama. They do move along at a nice pace without overly complicated resolutions. The love between the established couple is solid and heartfelt. There is only one sex scene that I remember. The "Scooby Gang" is diverse an interesting.
Warnings = None
HFN/HEA = Most definitely
Series Notes = 5th and final
*Reading on? N/A
*Reading back to back? Only the 4th and the 5th. I read the 3rd last December, and the 1st two in Feb. of 2021. I purposely waited for the 5th and final book, before reading the 4th.
*Can be easily read without the previous? I think the story could be followed, but without the context of the previous books a lot would be missed or not fully understood.
Rating Notes = (SubPlots, thoughts, etc... )
I must admit to some relief that it ended so strongly for me, after how blasé I felt about the 4th. Though, I did appreciate all that was revealed and learned. Plus, it was nice that Gideon's backstory received closure. But even with all that, I had not particularly liked or enjoyed it. But this final installment, I loved. I stayed really engaged. I was pleased how well things were wrapped up, and I loved seeing the guys getting married. It was a great final installment for those of us that have grown to love all these characters from Junction.
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Below is my philosophy on reviewing!
***************
1. I try to take into account and note common pet peeves noted by other readers
2. "Brain candy' does not necessarily carry a negative connotation. (What is brain candy? Publishing industry 's version of pop music - Typically: formulaic, from a prolific author published often and quickly (like monthly), things escalate fast, and are often solved easily etc..) It has its uses: to pass time when tired, on the beach, etc... The problem comes when "brain candy" is unexpected or even disguised.
3. Why rate the blurbs? :
Like many readers, I do not like to think I'm reading one kind of story; just to end up with another. But...I also don't think a book should be docked stars for being as stated. If I don't like stories about "_________", and I choose to read it; I shouldn't give it 2 stars based JUST on my preferences. Unless... it wasn't clear in the blurb.
4. Other Factors that effect my perspective when reviewing:
Since 2009, I have exclusively read m/m. My 1st was in 2007. I am a Kindle diehard, and I never do audio for m/m. I read at least 100+ books a year - with an average length of 220± pages. My Goodreads lifetime rating (at the start of 2022) was a 3.60 average for 1715 books. Which considering, one should be better at picking out books the more one reads, I feel is an accurate average. I have over 800 reviews within the m/m genre here on Goodreads.
5. I'm really confused by reviews that consist of just 2 to 3 sentences - with no explanation or evidence. I'm even more baffled when it receives "likes". I'm unsure of how it is useful to others on whether or not to pick a book, for example: "It was a fun read". Umm okay... What made it fun? For that matter, what do you define as fun? Do not even get me started on people who have rated over a 1000 books with a 4.99 rating average. How is that helpful? And there's is absolutely no way that every book is above average great / 5 star read. Why even bother to rate books?
6. I am not a writer nor a wordsmith, but I am a passionate reader. I joined the m/m group years ago, but I mostly lurk. I like to ask questions, debate, and quite possibly play Devil's advocate - which is hard to do online, with unknown people - to whom you are also an unknown- and no body language is available to convey intent. Plus, true debates seems to be a lost art form where respect and even friendliness can be shown between those with fundamentally different opinions.
August 25, 2022
It’s both a happy day and a sad day … the fifth and final The Fantastic Fluke adventure, Fluke and the Fantastic Finale, is here. This book presents the age-old dilemma of whether to read quickly to get to the end or to read slowly because it’s coming to an end, and we want to prolong the experience (and postpone the inevitable). Indeed, bidding farewell to Sage, Gideon, and furry, frisky, fabulous Fluke, Sage’s faithful, fox familiar, is bittersweet. I’ve loved all five of the adventures in this series – which you must read in order – and Sam Burns delivers a terrific send-off for Fluke and friends.
Fluke and the Fantastic Finale wraps everything up with a bow and gives us mystery, action, adventure, magic, found family, and of course, sweet love between Sage and Gideon along the way. Burns unwittingly answers the read-fast-or-slow question by creating such a compelling story, one that you’ll need to have exceptional discipline to resist completing in one sitting. Once I started, I certainly couldn’t, and didn’t, put it down. I may have even adopted Fluke’s snarl to keep the family members at bay while reading.
As noted, this is a continuing storyline, so you need to have read the first four books before this one. Fluke and the Fantastic Finale brings us full circle, hearkening back to the very first book, with mysterious people trying to kill Sage and Sage struggling with acknowledging his powers. Now, there’s no doubt of Sage’s power, even to him, but he still struggles to accept his importance and significance to the magical community. He has trouble accepting his place as a role model of sorts as a powerful arcane mage, the first arcane mage people have known about in decades, if not a century.
Surprisingly, this story focuses on Sage and Fluke, and a fairly new character, Quinn Pike, a quaesitor introduced in the previous book, Fluke and the Frontier Farce. There’s much less of Iris, Anson, Freddy, and even Gideon, than in the other books. The romance aspect is also minimal, but at this point, Sage and Gideon are a well-established couple, so it makes sense in context, … I guess (*grumbles*). I just would have liked a bit more of their one-on-one interactions.
That being said, Burns’ ever-present snark, sarcasm, and humor, particularly for Sage, the sole narrator, is top-notch, and Fluke is beyond adorable in this story, showing off that he is indeed fantastic in so many ways. We are constantly reminded why he is at the center of this series as Sage’s familiar, and his every appearance makes you smile. This final book solidifies that Fluke is indeed no fluke – fully and completely meant to be with Sage with whom he shares a tight, tender, touching bond.
If you haven’t read The Fantastic Fluke series, it should be on the top of your TBR, if it’s not already. Fluke and the Fantastic Finale delivers on its title. If you are looking for exceptionally crafted and executed, absorbing content, you’ll find that here in a well-balanced mix of story elements that will have you eager for more. My only complaint about this book is that there isn’t more … it’s the last one. But alas, I suppose all good things must come to an end. I’ll miss you, Fluke. 😭
Fluke and the Fantastic Finale wraps everything up with a bow and gives us mystery, action, adventure, magic, found family, and of course, sweet love between Sage and Gideon along the way. Burns unwittingly answers the read-fast-or-slow question by creating such a compelling story, one that you’ll need to have exceptional discipline to resist completing in one sitting. Once I started, I certainly couldn’t, and didn’t, put it down. I may have even adopted Fluke’s snarl to keep the family members at bay while reading.
As noted, this is a continuing storyline, so you need to have read the first four books before this one. Fluke and the Fantastic Finale brings us full circle, hearkening back to the very first book, with mysterious people trying to kill Sage and Sage struggling with acknowledging his powers. Now, there’s no doubt of Sage’s power, even to him, but he still struggles to accept his importance and significance to the magical community. He has trouble accepting his place as a role model of sorts as a powerful arcane mage, the first arcane mage people have known about in decades, if not a century.
Surprisingly, this story focuses on Sage and Fluke, and a fairly new character, Quinn Pike, a quaesitor introduced in the previous book, Fluke and the Frontier Farce. There’s much less of Iris, Anson, Freddy, and even Gideon, than in the other books. The romance aspect is also minimal, but at this point, Sage and Gideon are a well-established couple, so it makes sense in context, … I guess (*grumbles*). I just would have liked a bit more of their one-on-one interactions.
That being said, Burns’ ever-present snark, sarcasm, and humor, particularly for Sage, the sole narrator, is top-notch, and Fluke is beyond adorable in this story, showing off that he is indeed fantastic in so many ways. We are constantly reminded why he is at the center of this series as Sage’s familiar, and his every appearance makes you smile. This final book solidifies that Fluke is indeed no fluke – fully and completely meant to be with Sage with whom he shares a tight, tender, touching bond.
If you haven’t read The Fantastic Fluke series, it should be on the top of your TBR, if it’s not already. Fluke and the Fantastic Finale delivers on its title. If you are looking for exceptionally crafted and executed, absorbing content, you’ll find that here in a well-balanced mix of story elements that will have you eager for more. My only complaint about this book is that there isn’t more … it’s the last one. But alas, I suppose all good things must come to an end. I’ll miss you, Fluke. 😭
September 30, 2023
Ladies, Gentlemen and Others… A Drumroll Please…
And so, with a dash of fanfare and celebration we come to the end of this surprising and surprisingly awesome little series, and now I’m wishing that I read a bit more slowly so that it would have lasted just a little bit longer. Alas…. I haven’t read slowly since I started at age 3, and since that was WELL over 50 years ago I don’t believe that it will be changing anytime soon.
Before I go any further, I owe an apology or two. I’m an old-school gay man and we fought terribly for the right of transgendered people to be identified as their chosen gender, so I am very resistant to gender-less pronouns, etc which to me feel like a white-washing (in the archaic racist sense of the word) of a very real and personal struggle for each of them. So I apologize if my resistance has offended anyone, but again, I don’t see myself changing. Just know that I respect every individual for who they are, not who I see them as. Secondly, I only went to her website after reading book 4, so it never occurred to me that “Sam” is also a female name, and I mistakenly assumed she was male. , and referred to her as such in all my reviews….
Big OOPS, there.
Now, haven’t gotten all that out of the way, this entire series, obviously, including this book, is just so much fun and such a lighthearted read, despite all of the deep and deeply emotional pain/struggles that all of the characters go through, that it is impossible to come away from this series without a smile on your face. Fluke’s, antics alone, deserve pages upon pages of reviews!
This woman can obviously write! And oh, can she ever write well! On top of that, she knows how to build, an intricate story without leaving any of the pieces on the floor. Because, make no mistake, that storytelling and writing ability, are two very different and totally separate talents. Let me assure you, she has both in spades!! And I am quite sincerely looking forward to reading more from her as soon as I finish writing this review. (Honestly, that’s a lie, because I have a couple of books that just came out in other series I’ve been reading, so… You get the point). Regardless, don’t delay, simply pick up the series, start with the first book, and you’re going to have a great ole’ time!
And so, with a dash of fanfare and celebration we come to the end of this surprising and surprisingly awesome little series, and now I’m wishing that I read a bit more slowly so that it would have lasted just a little bit longer. Alas…. I haven’t read slowly since I started at age 3, and since that was WELL over 50 years ago I don’t believe that it will be changing anytime soon.
Before I go any further, I owe an apology or two. I’m an old-school gay man and we fought terribly for the right of transgendered people to be identified as their chosen gender, so I am very resistant to gender-less pronouns, etc which to me feel like a white-washing (in the archaic racist sense of the word) of a very real and personal struggle for each of them. So I apologize if my resistance has offended anyone, but again, I don’t see myself changing. Just know that I respect every individual for who they are, not who I see them as. Secondly, I only went to her website after reading book 4, so it never occurred to me that “Sam” is also a female name, and I mistakenly assumed she was male. , and referred to her as such in all my reviews….
Big OOPS, there.
Now, haven’t gotten all that out of the way, this entire series, obviously, including this book, is just so much fun and such a lighthearted read, despite all of the deep and deeply emotional pain/struggles that all of the characters go through, that it is impossible to come away from this series without a smile on your face. Fluke’s, antics alone, deserve pages upon pages of reviews!
This woman can obviously write! And oh, can she ever write well! On top of that, she knows how to build, an intricate story without leaving any of the pieces on the floor. Because, make no mistake, that storytelling and writing ability, are two very different and totally separate talents. Let me assure you, she has both in spades!! And I am quite sincerely looking forward to reading more from her as soon as I finish writing this review. (Honestly, that’s a lie, because I have a couple of books that just came out in other series I’ve been reading, so… You get the point). Regardless, don’t delay, simply pick up the series, start with the first book, and you’re going to have a great ole’ time!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews