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Downside Ghosts #3
City of Ghosts
The third book in this gritty, sexy, urban fantasy trilogy. Rogue spirits and psychopomps are terrorising people, and now someone is planning to open the gates to the City of Ghosts and unleash the dead on humanity. Faced with her greatest challenge yet, Chess has to travel to the spirit city to finally lay all her ghosts to rest… Chess Putnam has a lot on her plate. Mangled human corpses have started to show up on the streets of Downside, and Chess’s bosses at the Church of Real Truth have ordered her to team up with the ultra-powerful Black Squad agency to crack the grisly case. Chess is under a binding spell that threatens death if she talks about the investigation, but the city’s most notorious crime boss – and Chess’s drug dealer – gets wind of her new assignment and insists on being kept informed. If that isn’t bad enough, a sinister street vendor appears to have information Chess needs. Only he’s not telling what he knows, or what it all has to do with the vast underground City of Eternity. Now Chess will have to navigate killer wraiths and a lot of seriously nasty magic – all while coping with some not-so-small issues of her own. And the only man she can trust to help her through it all has every reason to want her dead.
408 pages, Paperback
First published May 19, 2010
66 people are currently reading
5423 people want to read
About the author
Stacia Kane
35 books2,535 followersStacia Kane is the author of the light-hearted romantic urban fantasy "Megan Chase" series starting with PERSONAL DEMONS.
She currently writes the gritty dystopian urban fantasy "Downside" series starring Chess Putnam and featuring ghosts, human sacrifice, drugs, witchcraft, punk rock, and a badass '69 Chevelle. She bleaches her hair and wears a lot of black.
She currently writes the gritty dystopian urban fantasy "Downside" series starring Chess Putnam and featuring ghosts, human sacrifice, drugs, witchcraft, punk rock, and a badass '69 Chevelle. She bleaches her hair and wears a lot of black.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 753 reviews
March 4, 2012
The heroine is a lying drug addict with divided loyalties. The hero is ugly. And most of the dialogue is in a bastardized version of the English language. He calls her Chessiebomb for God's sake. It should be a disaster. But somehow, some way, the Downside Ghosts series has wormed its way into my heart... and this installment is the most powerful one yet.
Things blew up between Chess and Terrible at the end of the last book --and things are still a mess between them. Chess wants to make things right, but Terrible is avoiding her like the plague. She's keeping busy, though, with her latest assignment from the church. The elders pair her with another investigator to solve a series of grisly murders in Downside. The Lamaru are tied in somehow --and the situation is so serious, Chess must take a blood oath of secrecy.
The investigation is complicated; the discoveries are gruesome. And once again, Chess finds herself a target. Since all the madness is happening in his backyard, Bump takes an interest. And because her binding oath won't allow Chess to keep him informed, he pairs her with Terrible again. Only now, instead of a friendly partnership, things are strained and miserable between them.
It's so devastating to see what has become of Chess and Terrible. His heart is clearly broken and he obviously still loves her even though he doesn't want to. There are moments between them that are so poignant and gut-wrenching, they left my chest feeling hollow. Chess and Terrible are both so destroyed by what has passed between them... I just wanted it to be fixed so badly. But at the same time, I had all this left over anger and angst toward Chess for creating the situation in the first place. Then I swing back around and remember the kind of life Chess has lived; what she has had to endure just to survive... the void in her life where most people have known love. It's such a mess. It's masterfully done. Truly.
The investigation wields some disturbing results. There are great twists and turns and I never saw the ending coming. Plus -- I have to say that the resolution between Chess and Terrible was so very, very satisfying.
This series won't be for everyone. But it most assuredly is for me. 5 stars.
Things blew up between Chess and Terrible at the end of the last book --and things are still a mess between them. Chess wants to make things right, but Terrible is avoiding her like the plague. She's keeping busy, though, with her latest assignment from the church. The elders pair her with another investigator to solve a series of grisly murders in Downside. The Lamaru are tied in somehow --and the situation is so serious, Chess must take a blood oath of secrecy.
The investigation is complicated; the discoveries are gruesome. And once again, Chess finds herself a target. Since all the madness is happening in his backyard, Bump takes an interest. And because her binding oath won't allow Chess to keep him informed, he pairs her with Terrible again. Only now, instead of a friendly partnership, things are strained and miserable between them.
It's so devastating to see what has become of Chess and Terrible. His heart is clearly broken and he obviously still loves her even though he doesn't want to. There are moments between them that are so poignant and gut-wrenching, they left my chest feeling hollow. Chess and Terrible are both so destroyed by what has passed between them... I just wanted it to be fixed so badly. But at the same time, I had all this left over anger and angst toward Chess for creating the situation in the first place. Then I swing back around and remember the kind of life Chess has lived; what she has had to endure just to survive... the void in her life where most people have known love. It's such a mess. It's masterfully done. Truly.
The investigation wields some disturbing results. There are great twists and turns and I never saw the ending coming. Plus -- I have to say that the resolution between Chess and Terrible was so very, very satisfying.
This series won't be for everyone. But it most assuredly is for me. 5 stars.
April 12, 2012
So... the ridiculous thing? Ever since I finished Shadowfever in March 2011, I've been searching frantically for an adult series that was about more than just romance and sex, an urban fantasy series that was actually well-written with a good mystery going on. I have now finally found that well-written urban fantasy series + mystery and all I can think about is "when will Terrible show up and - more importantly - will there be sexytimes?!"
January 15, 2015
The only thing I want to say is that I appreciate how infidelity and lying are handled in this book. Ever since reading Richelle Mead's Succubus series I've felt pretty bitter about how Georgina and Seth's cheating was so easily forgiven and forgotten. City of Ghosts is a great antidote to that. I love that Chess had to work very hard for her forgiveness and redemption. The relationship drama kept me glued to this book, waiting for the next fight or hookup. Mystery? What mystery?
December 4, 2013
This book is full of BORING. LOL. No offense, fans. City of Ghosts has everything going for it except for meat and potatoes.
Stacia Kane's third Downside novel returns with the same tight, powerful prose, compelling dilemmas, and blood, sweat, and glass that crust Downside's streets.
Reviewing the last Downside novel, Unholy Magic, I doubted Kane's intentions and abilities approaching a challenge like drug addiction. In City, Kane demonstrates that her protagonist Chess's growth interests her. Without resolving Chess's dependence Disney-neat -or at all- Kane convinces us that she isn't simply exploiting a "gritty" topic for topping on her urban fantasy cake. Chess acknowledges some problems while growing in some directions.
In fact, her struggles, her emotional evolution, those moments when she scrapes the bottom and discovers herself, save the book, along with certain tunnel and bathroom scenes.
Chess's hemming and hawing about a conspiracy make up the other 70 percent.
I just finished saying that Unholy Magic galloped thanks to more dialogue than exposition. Imagine my surprise seeing City bloated with obnoxious exposition. It's downright perverse, LOL. There were too many steps in Chess's thought process from discovering X item to eventually concluding Y, and we did not need a point by point analysis of each. I should not be skimming the most anticipated installment in the series. Kane should be capitalizing on her fans' whimpers and bated breaths.
Add instead tedious ritual and this-is-a-special-kind-of-boring bickering between Chess and temporary teammate Lauren. I know many overlooked the tedium for the bigger crumbs -Terrible- but I think Kane can produce better. You can't fake this caliber of writing. So I'm giving City three stars, but it's saying something when I see "books similar to Downside Ghosts" as a recommendation. Looking forward to the next one!
Chess' theme song: Medication by Garbage.
Stacia Kane's third Downside novel returns with the same tight, powerful prose, compelling dilemmas, and blood, sweat, and glass that crust Downside's streets.
Reviewing the last Downside novel, Unholy Magic, I doubted Kane's intentions and abilities approaching a challenge like drug addiction. In City, Kane demonstrates that her protagonist Chess's growth interests her. Without resolving Chess's dependence Disney-neat -or at all- Kane convinces us that she isn't simply exploiting a "gritty" topic for topping on her urban fantasy cake. Chess acknowledges some problems while growing in some directions.
In fact, her struggles, her emotional evolution, those moments when she scrapes the bottom and discovers herself, save the book, along with certain tunnel and bathroom scenes.
Chess's hemming and hawing about a conspiracy make up the other 70 percent.
I just finished saying that Unholy Magic galloped thanks to more dialogue than exposition. Imagine my surprise seeing City bloated with obnoxious exposition. It's downright perverse, LOL. There were too many steps in Chess's thought process from discovering X item to eventually concluding Y, and we did not need a point by point analysis of each. I should not be skimming the most anticipated installment in the series. Kane should be capitalizing on her fans' whimpers and bated breaths.
Add instead tedious ritual and this-is-a-special-kind-of-boring bickering between Chess and temporary teammate Lauren. I know many overlooked the tedium for the bigger crumbs -Terrible- but I think Kane can produce better. You can't fake this caliber of writing. So I'm giving City three stars, but it's saying something when I see "books similar to Downside Ghosts" as a recommendation. Looking forward to the next one!
Chess' theme song: Medication by Garbage.
August 5, 2019
City of Ghosts
Downside Ghosts, Book 3
By: Stacia Kane
Narrated by: Bahni Turpin
Wow! An emotional roller coaster! Kane knows how to bring out all emotions! Sad, horror, fear, tenderness, regrets, forgiveness, anger, lust, love, hate, hope, loss, self sacrifice, and so much more! The narrator knows how to get into the character's head and convey those emotions.
This book has Chess working a case, a case so sensitive that the Church bond her to silence. If she talks, she bleeds, but she could die. She normally works alone but has to work with a high elder's daughter.
Chess' drug Lord wants to know what is going on. She can't tell him, literally. So she has to investigate with the Church appointed woman and for the drug Lord and keep the information separate and secret from each other. It is a wild ride! Especially the ending!
Downside Ghosts, Book 3
By: Stacia Kane
Narrated by: Bahni Turpin
Wow! An emotional roller coaster! Kane knows how to bring out all emotions! Sad, horror, fear, tenderness, regrets, forgiveness, anger, lust, love, hate, hope, loss, self sacrifice, and so much more! The narrator knows how to get into the character's head and convey those emotions.
This book has Chess working a case, a case so sensitive that the Church bond her to silence. If she talks, she bleeds, but she could die. She normally works alone but has to work with a high elder's daughter.
Chess' drug Lord wants to know what is going on. She can't tell him, literally. So she has to investigate with the Church appointed woman and for the drug Lord and keep the information separate and secret from each other. It is a wild ride! Especially the ending!
January 6, 2016
Update 7/19/12:
If it was even possible, I love Stacia Kane even more than before:
http://www.staciakane.net/2012/07/11/...
___________________________________________
I cried again. I had no idea I was such a wuss. Friends, please don't judge me: I wasn't lying, I really don't like this torrid love affair kind of stuff and if the plot wasn't string enough on its own I wouldn't be reading this series. At least there is finally something definitive on the love front. I don't have to run out and get the next book to find out what happens next. I want to but since I've read three in two weeks and here are only five so far I think I need to pace myself.
But the plot does pace itself and is good. I didn't figure it out ahead of time or even really have a clue. I can think of only one creepy kind of loose end but not exactly. I don't like that she mixes drugs and that one drug can automatically cancel out another. I just find it hard to believe it works like that. The other big problem with this particular storyline is that in the middle there is a fabulous battle from which the heroine emerges with only a minor leg injury she dresses at home when in reality she would be dead. If not, the. She would be in ICU and on a ventilator for months.
As always, you just have to ignore the ridiculous premise. This time we are reminded that the church has gotten rid of racism, intolerance and xenophobia. Riiiggghht. Kane really gets how that would work. That's why in the book there are still slums, why Chess is looked down upon because she comes from a poor background, why all foster homes did horrible and evil things to her, why there are no minorities mentioned except the rival gang who are Chinese. One of them is a love interest but he really isn't. You can't trust him and he probably is evil. No black and whites here.
But aside from this base that pervades the series, the books are really good. As usual, here the pacing is perfect, the characters real, the situations thrilling and dangerous, and Chess really kicks butt. In fact, in this book more than the previous two, she does so not just with magic but physically with her fists and her knife and feet and elbows and so forth. Chess is love-sick but not simpering. Nor is she the smart-mouthed bitch who can't shut up to literally save her life that proliferate UF. She takes action but she gets scared. She's strong but she screams and thinks of running away.
I want to give it a five for an enjoyment. I feel I should take away a star or two for the lack of diversity other than gender. Right now I'm at a 4.5 so I'm rounding up. If I'm not still as obsessed with this three days from. Ow as I have been with all the others than I'll lower it. But somehow I doubt that will happen since I read the book basically in one sitting with only a couple of interruptions to drive someone someplace and I've already reread the scenes with Terrible in them. Another fictional character I'm in love with. There must be something really wrong with me.
If it was even possible, I love Stacia Kane even more than before:
http://www.staciakane.net/2012/07/11/...
___________________________________________
I cried again. I had no idea I was such a wuss. Friends, please don't judge me: I wasn't lying, I really don't like this torrid love affair kind of stuff and if the plot wasn't string enough on its own I wouldn't be reading this series. At least there is finally something definitive on the love front. I don't have to run out and get the next book to find out what happens next. I want to but since I've read three in two weeks and here are only five so far I think I need to pace myself.
But the plot does pace itself and is good. I didn't figure it out ahead of time or even really have a clue. I can think of only one creepy kind of loose end but not exactly. I don't like that she mixes drugs and that one drug can automatically cancel out another. I just find it hard to believe it works like that. The other big problem with this particular storyline is that in the middle there is a fabulous battle from which the heroine emerges with only a minor leg injury she dresses at home when in reality she would be dead. If not, the. She would be in ICU and on a ventilator for months.
As always, you just have to ignore the ridiculous premise. This time we are reminded that the church has gotten rid of racism, intolerance and xenophobia. Riiiggghht. Kane really gets how that would work. That's why in the book there are still slums, why Chess is looked down upon because she comes from a poor background, why all foster homes did horrible and evil things to her, why there are no minorities mentioned except the rival gang who are Chinese. One of them is a love interest but he really isn't. You can't trust him and he probably is evil. No black and whites here.
But aside from this base that pervades the series, the books are really good. As usual, here the pacing is perfect, the characters real, the situations thrilling and dangerous, and Chess really kicks butt. In fact, in this book more than the previous two, she does so not just with magic but physically with her fists and her knife and feet and elbows and so forth. Chess is love-sick but not simpering. Nor is she the smart-mouthed bitch who can't shut up to literally save her life that proliferate UF. She takes action but she gets scared. She's strong but she screams and thinks of running away.
I want to give it a five for an enjoyment. I feel I should take away a star or two for the lack of diversity other than gender. Right now I'm at a 4.5 so I'm rounding up. If I'm not still as obsessed with this three days from. Ow as I have been with all the others than I'll lower it. But somehow I doubt that will happen since I read the book basically in one sitting with only a couple of interruptions to drive someone someplace and I've already reread the scenes with Terrible in them. Another fictional character I'm in love with. There must be something really wrong with me.
September 16, 2015
This review was posted at Under The Covers
Dear Ms. Kane,
I finished reading City of Ghosts and I'm utterly speechless. This is one of my favorite books this year. I'll be honest with you and say that after I read book one I wasn't totally sold on the idea of a heroine with a drug problem, among her other issues.
After following Chess stumble across her life through the past three books all I can say is it takes a truly talented author to bring out so much emotion and the depth of connection that you've managed to achieve with your series. Downside Ghosts is dark and gritty, full of action, bad guys, tough situations and no easy way out.
City of Ghosts was a rough emotional ride for me especially with all the edge-of-your-seat action, heart-pounding, mouth-gaping, jaw-clenching moments, raw passion, thigh-clenching and shows a vulnerable side to all the characters. A lot of what made this book so amazing was the relationship between Terrible and Chess. First of all I can't say enough how amazed I am at the awesomeness that is Terrible. I just want him. And they both battled a lot of issues in this book. I suffered right along with both. I had no sides. They were both wrong, they were both right, and they both broke my heart. And they were smutty-good!
Another great thing about this book was the storyline. Nothing went as I thought it would. Well, with the exception that I always suspected of the certain someone that wasn't revealed until the end. Other than that I was left gaping at every turn and just thinking "Damn, would something just go the right way for once? Please!!!".
At the end of the day, this book had it all! I am even more in love with Terrible, I like Chess a lot, even though she still pops her pills. And I actually liked Lex ('cuz you know I wasn't such a big fan of his in the other books and you know why).
But could I ask you a huge favor? Could you write faster? I really don't want to have to wait until March now for the next book! I may sound like Chess now looking for a fix.
"You know I do, aye? Love you right, Chessiebomb."
Your newest fan,
Francesca
Theme Song:
http://youtu.be/BJIqnXTqg8I
Dear Ms. Kane,
I finished reading City of Ghosts and I'm utterly speechless. This is one of my favorite books this year. I'll be honest with you and say that after I read book one I wasn't totally sold on the idea of a heroine with a drug problem, among her other issues.
After following Chess stumble across her life through the past three books all I can say is it takes a truly talented author to bring out so much emotion and the depth of connection that you've managed to achieve with your series. Downside Ghosts is dark and gritty, full of action, bad guys, tough situations and no easy way out.
City of Ghosts was a rough emotional ride for me especially with all the edge-of-your-seat action, heart-pounding, mouth-gaping, jaw-clenching moments, raw passion, thigh-clenching and shows a vulnerable side to all the characters. A lot of what made this book so amazing was the relationship between Terrible and Chess. First of all I can't say enough how amazed I am at the awesomeness that is Terrible. I just want him. And they both battled a lot of issues in this book. I suffered right along with both. I had no sides. They were both wrong, they were both right, and they both broke my heart. And they were smutty-good!
Another great thing about this book was the storyline. Nothing went as I thought it would. Well, with the exception that I always suspected of the certain someone that wasn't revealed until the end. Other than that I was left gaping at every turn and just thinking "Damn, would something just go the right way for once? Please!!!".
At the end of the day, this book had it all! I am even more in love with Terrible, I like Chess a lot, even though she still pops her pills. And I actually liked Lex ('cuz you know I wasn't such a big fan of his in the other books and you know why).
But could I ask you a huge favor? Could you write faster? I really don't want to have to wait until March now for the next book! I may sound like Chess now looking for a fix.
"You know I do, aye? Love you right, Chessiebomb."
Your newest fan,
Francesca
Theme Song:
http://youtu.be/BJIqnXTqg8I
March 13, 2012
The Downside Ghosts series by Stacia Kane is one of my favorite urban fantasy series. I never expected to like this series; in fact, if I was to meet some of these characters on the streets at night I would instinctively head in the opposite direction. I don’t approve of the lifestyle choices of the main character – she’s a pill popping addict. Somehow, I have the urge to both smack her and hug her and then cart her off to rehab. This is a testament to just how well these characters are written.
City of Ghosts is the third book in the Downside Ghosts series. For those unfamiliar with the series, the basic premise is that sometime in the future the ghosts have become extremely dangerous and the “Church” has a staff specially trained to protect the population from said ghosts. City of Ghosts finds the main character Chess Putnam undergoing some serious moments of self-doubt, self-loathing, and moments of paranoia. Chess does not allow herself to be happy; she does not see herself worthy of a relationship. Chess’ on again/off again relationship with mob enforcer Terrible is damaged and possibly irreparable.
Chess continues to surprise me. The very fact that she manages to do her job quite well despite her addiction never ceases to amaze me. It’s her personal life that keeps getting messed up.
Terrible. Let’s take a moment to talk about Terrible. Terrible is an interesting character. He’s huge, not that great looking, and extremely good at persuasion using his fists. There is another side to him. He has a good heart and he is capable of love. Terrible is one of those fictional characters that you fall in love with even though in real life, he would be scary. I found myself echoing Chess’ feelings for Terrible. When he wasn’t in a scene, I would miss him. If Terrible was in a scene, my heart would skip a beat and I felt happy. When he calls her Chessiebomb, I melted.
On the ghost front, Chess is working with the Black Squad to solve a case of grisly murders. The action is fast paced. There are excellent fight scenes, lots of blood and mayhem, and the sex is hot, dirty, and angry. My only criticism of this book would be that there was a little too much detail on the preparation of Chess’ spells. That part read a little like a recipe, but was interesting nonetheless.
City of Ghosts was an emotional ride. While this series is not for everyone, fans of dark urban fantasy should enjoy it.
Highly recommended.
Favorite quote:
City of Ghosts is the third book in the Downside Ghosts series. For those unfamiliar with the series, the basic premise is that sometime in the future the ghosts have become extremely dangerous and the “Church” has a staff specially trained to protect the population from said ghosts. City of Ghosts finds the main character Chess Putnam undergoing some serious moments of self-doubt, self-loathing, and moments of paranoia. Chess does not allow herself to be happy; she does not see herself worthy of a relationship. Chess’ on again/off again relationship with mob enforcer Terrible is damaged and possibly irreparable.
Chess continues to surprise me. The very fact that she manages to do her job quite well despite her addiction never ceases to amaze me. It’s her personal life that keeps getting messed up.
Terrible. Let’s take a moment to talk about Terrible. Terrible is an interesting character. He’s huge, not that great looking, and extremely good at persuasion using his fists. There is another side to him. He has a good heart and he is capable of love. Terrible is one of those fictional characters that you fall in love with even though in real life, he would be scary. I found myself echoing Chess’ feelings for Terrible. When he wasn’t in a scene, I would miss him. If Terrible was in a scene, my heart would skip a beat and I felt happy. When he calls her Chessiebomb, I melted.
On the ghost front, Chess is working with the Black Squad to solve a case of grisly murders. The action is fast paced. There are excellent fight scenes, lots of blood and mayhem, and the sex is hot, dirty, and angry. My only criticism of this book would be that there was a little too much detail on the preparation of Chess’ spells. That part read a little like a recipe, but was interesting nonetheless.
City of Ghosts was an emotional ride. While this series is not for everyone, fans of dark urban fantasy should enjoy it.
Highly recommended.
Favorite quote:
“You know, caffeine can mess with your energy,” Lauren said. “It’s best to stay away from artificial stimulants.”
It was probably the funniest thing anyone had said to her in weeks.
January 22, 2011
I owe Stacia Kane an apology. The first book was good, but I was put off by drug use. I let it cloud my mind and it took away from the reading experience for me. However, I still was fascinated by Chess and the host of characters in the Downside Series. Saying that... This book was SOOOOO GOOD!!!! From the very first page, to the very last word, this book brought out every emotion. It was riveting and draining. Emotionally unbalanced and frustrating. You really feel everything Chess feels. Stacia Kane sure can bring a story, and she can write!!!
The plot was interesting, well written, and complicated. Twists and turns galore. Chess and Terrible go through the ringer in this one. My heart ached for Chess, and for Terrible. There are some emotional scences in this book for sure.
I try not to hand out too many 5 star ratings, but I think this book deserves it. I can't wait for another!!!
The plot was interesting, well written, and complicated. Twists and turns galore. Chess and Terrible go through the ringer in this one. My heart ached for Chess, and for Terrible. There are some emotional scences in this book for sure.
I try not to hand out too many 5 star ratings, but I think this book deserves it. I can't wait for another!!!
September 1, 2016
This book... it was so amazing.
Terrible, oh Terrible.
Review to come.
May 13, 2018
Sometimes I feel so appalled by the whole scenario of this book. How can a book whose various elements, when individually laid down can come off so unappealing but somehow also manage to make me completely fall in love with it at the same time.
I don't see myself, on a usual basis, enjoying a book with an indecisive, messed up and lying heroine with a major drug addiction problem. Or a UF novel with just about zero humour. Or too many slangs or people speaking in terribly broken speech. But here I am loving each and everything about this book.
Downside Ghosts series has some really complicated characters with some really complicated issues. I have said this before also in my previous reviews about Stacia Kane being such a wonderful writer who manages to write her characters so well that you can't help but accept them and their flaws. I have developed such a bond and understanding with some of the characters here, it's feels so good. I love connecting this way with them. That's the first thing I want in a book irrespective of its genre.
The first and the most important thing I noticed in this instalment was the tremendous character development.
Sure, Chess here might not be the best protagonist material. She is a hot mess. She makes bad decisions and fucks up real bad. But I feel that I got to see some great development in her character. It's also quite subtle and realistic, nothing all of a sudden type of thing.
We can see her being more clearheaded after her and Terrible's falling out in the last book. She admits to her self about her own shortcomings. She knows she has messed up big time and she is desperate to somehow make things okay with him.
I loved Terrible in this book. Heck, I love him in every book. It's impossible not to.
He is ugly, huge ( 6'4 ) with scarred face, jutting eyebrows, crooked nose and big sideburns. And he is the best and the most attractive male lead I have ever come across.
After what happened between him and Chess towards the end of the last book, he changed completely. The guy who had always been so so so sweet and caring for Chess became the guy who was the rudest and meanest to her. And it was all justified. I loved every bit of it. His anger, his hurt, his affection for her despite everything, the internal battle he always seemed to had.
Chess knows he hates her after what happened and she knows she should move on because he will never come back to her but she can't. She is so so so desperate here and tries really hard in getting him into talking to her somehow, only to be snapped at really bad. I felt really bad for her but I loved every second of this drama. Their relationship progressed so well in this book. Mainly because of this fight.
Their relationship is so realistic and so precious.
It makes sense. They make sense.
I don't even have any more words for them. I'll probably die with this ship.
I was also surprised with so less Lex in this book. I have always loved him. Even here, he was really understanding and cool when Chess told him about Terrible and her final decision. He has always been a great friend to her. But somehow I expected a little more of him here. There were exactly three scenes with him. Not that I am complaining. Actually I don't know how to feel about it. I missed him but at the same time is as really glad to see the whole attention on Chess and Terrible.
There was also an introduction of a new character, Lauren, in this book who is apparently Grand Elder's daughter and Chess' partner for the most recent case. Of course, Chess was anything but thrilled about it because she has always gone solo and having to share her ideas and time with someone.... not really her best suit. But still, Chess again amazed me by acting so mature and sensible throughout her time with Lauren. Even when Lauren acted like a bitc**, Chess was always professional no matter how much she was internally dying to gauge her partner's eyes out.
The plot otherwise was amazing. Though I felt the climax was a little rushed because so much was happening, it was getting a little hard for me to follow. Not that I minded or anything since I loved the book too much to do that. I can't wait to get my hands on the next one!
August 29, 2015
I have now read all three books of the 'Downside Ghosts' series in quick succession and I am so glad I did. I don't think I could have waited a year for each book to be released. I am already having withdrawal symptoms knowing I have to wait until autumn 2011 for book four, it's well...agonising.
This is such a fantastic series. There's enough kick-arse action to keep urban fantasy fans happy, but with the addition of the most heart-wrenching romance between Chess and Terrible, Paranormal Romance fans will be happy too. These books sit very well in both camps.
In this instalment, we see a lot more of Chess in action. Her job as a debunker has her working with an elite group called the Black Squad - the law enforcement of the Church of Real Truth - and she is having to deal with wraiths as well as ghosts and physchopomps. The pace is very fast and keeps the pages turning and I practically breezed through this book without stopping. I love Kane's fluent writing, the descriptions of the fighting and magical scenes are just superb, and I love the explanations of all the magical ingredients Chess needs to cast her spells.
What is slightly different about this instalment is that Chess has to share some of the limelight with another woman, Lauren. In both Unholy Ghosts and Unholy Magic, Chess is pretty much the only female and it is nice to see her interacting with another woman, even if she does hate her. But for me this is just part of the story in this book, it's not a necessity to have other women alongside Chess as she's a big enough character to hold her own, but it was a fresh change.
Chess's drug use takes a bit of a back seat to the action in City of Ghosts. Although she's still popping pills and needing them to get her through her life, it isn't as intense on the reader as it is in the previous books. She also makes a big decision about Lex and Terrible and we see her growing in strength.
After the ending of Unholy Magic, Terrible isn't talking to Chess, in fact he is trying his best to ignore her and is seething with anger at her betrayal. For this reason Terrible is not present for at least the first 160 pages, although he dips in and out, and I really missed him. But what comes is worth the wait...
Things heat up considerably between Chess and Terrible and I LOVED it - Kane has given these two characters amazing dialogue, which has me deeply immersed in their evolving, complex friendship/relationship that when certain scenes *if you know what I mean* occurred I was completely enthralled. My heart raced, my tummy knotted up... so much anguish, sexual tension and passion - just fan-bloody-tastic! Oh...and the ending....it had me in tears!
VERDICT:
Unholy Ghosts and Unholy Magic stayed with me long after I read them and it was no different with City of Ghosts. There's so many layers from the complex characters to the awesome world building of Downside. It's full of witchy magic, action and romance, I literally couldn't put this book down until I had read the very last word. I could go on and on about these books, they are just so brilliant! If you haven't started this series, you MUST!
This is such a fantastic series. There's enough kick-arse action to keep urban fantasy fans happy, but with the addition of the most heart-wrenching romance between Chess and Terrible, Paranormal Romance fans will be happy too. These books sit very well in both camps.
In this instalment, we see a lot more of Chess in action. Her job as a debunker has her working with an elite group called the Black Squad - the law enforcement of the Church of Real Truth - and she is having to deal with wraiths as well as ghosts and physchopomps. The pace is very fast and keeps the pages turning and I practically breezed through this book without stopping. I love Kane's fluent writing, the descriptions of the fighting and magical scenes are just superb, and I love the explanations of all the magical ingredients Chess needs to cast her spells.
What is slightly different about this instalment is that Chess has to share some of the limelight with another woman, Lauren. In both Unholy Ghosts and Unholy Magic, Chess is pretty much the only female and it is nice to see her interacting with another woman, even if she does hate her. But for me this is just part of the story in this book, it's not a necessity to have other women alongside Chess as she's a big enough character to hold her own, but it was a fresh change.
Chess's drug use takes a bit of a back seat to the action in City of Ghosts. Although she's still popping pills and needing them to get her through her life, it isn't as intense on the reader as it is in the previous books. She also makes a big decision about Lex and Terrible and we see her growing in strength.
After the ending of Unholy Magic, Terrible isn't talking to Chess, in fact he is trying his best to ignore her and is seething with anger at her betrayal. For this reason Terrible is not present for at least the first 160 pages, although he dips in and out, and I really missed him. But what comes is worth the wait...
Things heat up considerably between Chess and Terrible and I LOVED it - Kane has given these two characters amazing dialogue, which has me deeply immersed in their evolving, complex friendship/relationship that when certain scenes *if you know what I mean* occurred I was completely enthralled. My heart raced, my tummy knotted up... so much anguish, sexual tension and passion - just fan-bloody-tastic! Oh...and the ending....it had me in tears!
VERDICT:
Unholy Ghosts and Unholy Magic stayed with me long after I read them and it was no different with City of Ghosts. There's so many layers from the complex characters to the awesome world building of Downside. It's full of witchy magic, action and romance, I literally couldn't put this book down until I had read the very last word. I could go on and on about these books, they are just so brilliant! If you haven't started this series, you MUST!
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March 20, 2022
This is the one where Chess and Terrible finally get together. It's pretty explosive, but surprisingly enough I don't feel as emotionally impacted as I thought I should; perhaps that's just because it's been almost two months since I read this and the plot is a blur.
August 8, 2012
Would this endless mind-fuck ever end?
This is the book i've been longing for. If you're a fan of Chess and Terrible, then this is the book you've been hoping for. First off this review is going to suck. My head is still too full of what happened and I feel a little shell shocked. It's so lame to say but, so much happens in this book. It almost blew my mind. Magical moments where Chess got out of some Ghostly situations that you thought were impossible. Heartbreaking moments with Terrible, that had to chip away at his anger and hurt.
At the same time, that pride was still there. Yeah, she had done it. She had said it right to his face. She’d been terrified but she’d done it, she’d said those words that she’d never said before—at least, never said them and meant them.
I think what I enjoy most about reading the Downside Ghost Series are the subtle ways that we see Chess fall deeper into her addiction. Her taking 4 cept instead of 3. Her longing for the smoke filled room and her dreams of being able to reward herself from a long hard days work by loosing herself in them. How Terrible wont forgive her. She messed up, she knows it and he knows it but little by little Chess chips away at him. Her messed up past makes these moments all the more sweeter and I found myself longing for them to be cruising down the streets of Downtown in Terrible's Chevelle listening to music and quietly sitting next to each other while desire and hope pulses between them.
Chess lied to herself every day; it was just something she did, like taking her pills or making sure she had a pen in her bag. Little lies, mostly. Insignificant. Of course there were big ones there, too, like telling herself that she was more than just a junkie who got lucky enough to possess a talent not everyone had. That she was alone by choice and that she was not terrified of other people because they couldn’t be trusted, because they carried filth in their minds and pain in their hands and they would smear both all over her given half the chance.
Chess broke my heart in this book. Honestly, she made me cry more than once. Her desperation was right there on the pages and my heart bled for her. For her past, how she's messed up and mainly because she really doesn't know any better. Chess is just doing the best that she can - at times it's just too hard to read.
In closing, read this book. It's wonderful and has everything a great Urban Fantasy novel should. A kick ass Ghost hunter, sexy as hell side kicks (yeah, 2) and a budding romance to rock the ages.
March 16, 2013
FUCKING AMAZING!!!
This is why I love reading. Why did I not pick up this series sooner?? Why?!?
I read this in one day. Started in the morning and just could not put it down. Sleep? Who needs sleep? It's overated. Big, huge, monumental developments happen. I love Chess. Love her flawed, self deprecating, intelligent, kind hearted self. She is a powerful witch. The world of Downside is so vivid and fragrant. Ms Kane does an amazing job bringing everything to life.
Then there is Terrible. *swoon* I don't even know what to say. I love that he isn't the typical hero. He isn't over the top beautiful. He isn't sophisticated and polished. He is flawed just like Chess and just like her he is beautiful. I love seeing him through Chess' eyes. She sees so much beauty in him and he makes her feel alive. Now I'm worried about where things will go between them. I want Chess to have happiness.
What else can I say? I loved this. Loved every word. And yes I know I used love a gazillion times but I loved this!
This is why I love reading. Why did I not pick up this series sooner?? Why?!?
I read this in one day. Started in the morning and just could not put it down. Sleep? Who needs sleep? It's overated. Big, huge, monumental developments happen. I love Chess. Love her flawed, self deprecating, intelligent, kind hearted self. She is a powerful witch. The world of Downside is so vivid and fragrant. Ms Kane does an amazing job bringing everything to life.
Then there is Terrible. *swoon* I don't even know what to say. I love that he isn't the typical hero. He isn't over the top beautiful. He isn't sophisticated and polished. He is flawed just like Chess and just like her he is beautiful. I love seeing him through Chess' eyes. She sees so much beauty in him and he makes her feel alive. Now I'm worried about where things will go between them. I want Chess to have happiness.
What else can I say? I loved this. Loved every word. And yes I know I used love a gazillion times but I loved this!
June 1, 2017
Terrible is just perfect. I want one. :D
...That being said, I had no interest in the villain-of-the-week story & skimmed through most of it. The thing with Lauren was fairly predictable -- we could guess they'd either end up BFFs or total antagonists -- while the gross factor felt too blatant, & the plot more convoluted than the other books. Chess's issues were also ramped up to the point where I found her self-loathing borderline obnoxious. Maybe it's been too long since I read the first 2, but I don't recall her being 100% down on herself -- not her addiction problems, per se, but rather her lack of confidence, her guilt trips, & her constant wishing to be loaded into oblivion. It felt too heavy-handed.
But whatever. As I've said before, the chick-neo-noir UF genre just isn't my thing anymore. This one is still better than most, but I've no interest in wading through another open-ended series (Cassie Palmer is more than enough, thx). I'm satisfied with this book's ending & the visual of Chess & Terrible having reached their HFN type deal, so methinks this is the best time to bail.
2 stars for the blah-blah-whatever villainy + bonus star for Terrible.
...That being said, I had no interest in the villain-of-the-week story & skimmed through most of it. The thing with Lauren was fairly predictable -- we could guess they'd either end up BFFs or total antagonists -- while the gross factor felt too blatant, & the plot more convoluted than the other books. Chess's issues were also ramped up to the point where I found her self-loathing borderline obnoxious. Maybe it's been too long since I read the first 2, but I don't recall her being 100% down on herself -- not her addiction problems, per se, but rather her lack of confidence, her guilt trips, & her constant wishing to be loaded into oblivion. It felt too heavy-handed.
But whatever. As I've said before, the chick-neo-noir UF genre just isn't my thing anymore. This one is still better than most, but I've no interest in wading through another open-ended series (Cassie Palmer is more than enough, thx). I'm satisfied with this book's ending & the visual of Chess & Terrible having reached their HFN type deal, so methinks this is the best time to bail.
2 stars for the blah-blah-whatever villainy + bonus star for Terrible.
October 11, 2014
Love this series!!!!! I like Chess but she makes really dumb decisions all the time. Where I'm left looking at my kindle like "WTF!! Is wrong with her" I love love love Terrible!!! He is sooo hot!!!! I can't wait to see what's going to happen next.
July 13, 2012
“Chess,”
“So … so fuckin bad, want you so fuckin bad … shit so fucking bad …”
*Teenage girl sigh*
I love me some Terrible.
I was very hesitant to read this book since I read somewhere that Terrible wasn't featured as prominently. That was SO WRONG.
Many, many things happen in this book &, in my opinion, one of the sweetest scenes between Chess & Terrible.
But the MOST IMPORTANT
“So … so fuckin bad, want you so fuckin bad … shit so fucking bad …”
*Teenage girl sigh*
I love me some Terrible.
I was very hesitant to read this book since I read somewhere that Terrible wasn't featured as prominently. That was SO WRONG.
Many, many things happen in this book &, in my opinion, one of the sweetest scenes between Chess & Terrible.
But the MOST IMPORTANT
March 9, 2011
This will be short and sweet.
Wow. Just...wow. This is the best book I've read this year. It had it all.
Thanks to my friends that recommended the series. Safe to say I'm a Downside junkie now, right up.
Wow. Just...wow. This is the best book I've read this year. It had it all.
Thanks to my friends that recommended the series. Safe to say I'm a Downside junkie now, right up.
November 23, 2015
Re-read audible nov 2015 -
"You know I do, aye? Love you right, Chessiebomb."
Love love this book! Mother fucking hell its sooo good! I live for the bathroom scene and the underground train scene and the uber sweet ending! hot damn!
"You know I do, aye? Love you right, Chessiebomb."
Love love this book! Mother fucking hell its sooo good! I live for the bathroom scene and the underground train scene and the uber sweet ending! hot damn!
December 6, 2011
(Hey everyone! If all goes well this will end up being an honest to goodness--traditional!--book review. Before I get started I feel I should warn everyone I have ADHD and my medication is starting to wear off, also I dislike doing things the way they should be done--did I mention I also have Oppositional Defiant Disorder? Because I totally do. Anyway, my point is, despite the fact that I'm attempting to write a legitimate review I might go off on a few tangents like this. Just thought I'd warn you.)
When City of Ghosts begins our protagonist, Chess, is on medical leave, recovering from the events of the last book. Not only has her work life been put on hold, but her personal life is in shambles. The only friend Chess ever had--Terrible, enforcer to a powerful drug lord--wants nothing to do with her, treats her with disdain, and rebuffs her attempts to make things right. The other guy in Chess's life, Lex, is reluctant to walk away even after Chess tells him she's not interested. Much drugs are had.
She wonders why she let anyone into her life to begin with; her old solitary life was less complicated.
Then it seems things start looking up for Chess. She's able to return to work, agrees to assist the Black Squad on a particularly difficult case involving dark magic. Bound by a powerful spell, Chess is unable to tell anyone what she's doing, why she's investigating a building near one of her dealer's properties. Because of this she is forced into working with Terrible once again--though, in all honesty, she craves Terrible's company, wants a chance to talk to him--and allow him to accompany whenever possible as she investigates so he can piece together what's really going on and report back to his boss.
Duty bound, Terrible does as he's told--works with Chess--but he ismercilessly cruel less than happy about the arrangement. They discover there may be more to the case than originally thought: more players in the game, and a form of black magic Chess has never encountered before. To make matters worse the woman Chess is reporting to is condescending and just plain irritating to be around. Oh, yeah, and Lex keeps showing up. It's a disaster.
I enjoyed this installment of the Downside Ghosts series. I wish I could say I loved it, that I'll be giving City of Ghosts five stars, but I can't. While I reveled in the relationship aspect, I sort of had to slog through the mystery/Chess's professional life. It's not that the latter was uninteresting, it's just that personal relationships have become a big part of Chess's life, key to her overall character development. Things between Chess and Terrible are so unbearably awful that it's difficult for Chess not think about it all the time. Even I spent way too much time being angst-ridden over the whole ordeal. I lost much sleep over it, walked around feeling like crap for a couple of days. True story. This isn't typical behavior; it's rare for a book to affect me so immensely.
Because of my complete inability to relax until things were somehow resolved between Chess and Terrible, I could not focus on the mystery. This is pretty unfortunate as the details of this particular case were a lot more complicated than any of the other cases Chess has worked on. Which means I got a little confused from time to time and I was frustrated with myself and the book.
Do I place the blame on Stacia Kane? In her writing? Her storytelling abilities, originality and timing? When it comes to this specific series I'd have to say no, I don't blame Stacia Kane for my frustration. Sure there are aspects of the Downside universe that don't quite work for me, details that are a little fuzzy, and some grammatical errors (ironic I point this out, I know, seeing as I hardly ever edit what I say or write) but none of it stopped me from being so completely consumed by this series that I could do little more than think about it for a week straight.
I mean, it's a dystopian urban fantasy about a drug addict who traps ghosts for a living. The characters are named Chess and Terrible. Other than Kane's talent for storytelling, for writing emotion in such a way that it moved me on so many levels, there's no reason for this series to be among my favorites.
But it is, it totally is. The Downside Ghost series by Stacia Kane is going on my 'favorites' shelf, and even though City of Ghosts probably only deserves three stars--overall--I'm going to go ahead and give it four because it ends on such a satisfying note.
(A copy of this review is posted on my blog)
When City of Ghosts begins our protagonist, Chess, is on medical leave, recovering from the events of the last book. Not only has her work life been put on hold, but her personal life is in shambles. The only friend Chess ever had--Terrible, enforcer to a powerful drug lord--wants nothing to do with her, treats her with disdain, and rebuffs her attempts to make things right. The other guy in Chess's life, Lex, is reluctant to walk away even after Chess tells him she's not interested. Much drugs are had.
She wonders why she let anyone into her life to begin with; her old solitary life was less complicated.
Then it seems things start looking up for Chess. She's able to return to work, agrees to assist the Black Squad on a particularly difficult case involving dark magic. Bound by a powerful spell, Chess is unable to tell anyone what she's doing, why she's investigating a building near one of her dealer's properties. Because of this she is forced into working with Terrible once again--though, in all honesty, she craves Terrible's company, wants a chance to talk to him--and allow him to accompany whenever possible as she investigates so he can piece together what's really going on and report back to his boss.
Duty bound, Terrible does as he's told--works with Chess--but he is
I enjoyed this installment of the Downside Ghosts series. I wish I could say I loved it, that I'll be giving City of Ghosts five stars, but I can't. While I reveled in the relationship aspect, I sort of had to slog through the mystery/Chess's professional life. It's not that the latter was uninteresting, it's just that personal relationships have become a big part of Chess's life, key to her overall character development. Things between Chess and Terrible are so unbearably awful that it's difficult for Chess not think about it all the time. Even I spent way too much time being angst-ridden over the whole ordeal. I lost much sleep over it, walked around feeling like crap for a couple of days. True story. This isn't typical behavior; it's rare for a book to affect me so immensely.
Because of my complete inability to relax until things were somehow resolved between Chess and Terrible, I could not focus on the mystery. This is pretty unfortunate as the details of this particular case were a lot more complicated than any of the other cases Chess has worked on. Which means I got a little confused from time to time and I was frustrated with myself and the book.
Do I place the blame on Stacia Kane? In her writing? Her storytelling abilities, originality and timing? When it comes to this specific series I'd have to say no, I don't blame Stacia Kane for my frustration. Sure there are aspects of the Downside universe that don't quite work for me, details that are a little fuzzy, and some grammatical errors (ironic I point this out, I know, seeing as I hardly ever edit what I say or write) but none of it stopped me from being so completely consumed by this series that I could do little more than think about it for a week straight.
I mean, it's a dystopian urban fantasy about a drug addict who traps ghosts for a living. The characters are named Chess and Terrible. Other than Kane's talent for storytelling, for writing emotion in such a way that it moved me on so many levels, there's no reason for this series to be among my favorites.
But it is, it totally is. The Downside Ghost series by Stacia Kane is going on my 'favorites' shelf, and even though City of Ghosts probably only deserves three stars--overall--I'm going to go ahead and give it four because it ends on such a satisfying note.
(A copy of this review is posted on my blog)
June 10, 2012
Wow just right up aye…WOW!!! Hands down my favorite Urban Fantasy book. There is no way this review can say how much I loved this book. I’m going to keep it simple and do another review on the reread, which I am contemplating doing right now because I have a chunk of time coming up and I read this over 5 days which was a little to broken up for me.
Everything in this story was done so well. There is supposed to be a mystery to figure out but Stacia Kane kept me so engrossed with every moment that I didn’t read it like that. Of course every time I caught myself thinking I knew what was coming I was wrong (which is what I love about this series). I was so blindsided on some of the stuff I caught myself saying to myself I should have seen that coming.
At one point after being blind-sided again I realized that I wasn’t even trying to figure out what was going on I was just so into every moment that was written down whether it was a description of a room or a tension in her chest.
The whole Terrible snubbing her through most of the book was painful but she totally deserved it. I was begging him to let her off the hook, not because I think he should have but because I WANTED them back together. SO I’M SELFISH SHOOT ME!!!!.
What a great ending and nice edition to my favorites shelf!!
Everything in this story was done so well. There is supposed to be a mystery to figure out but Stacia Kane kept me so engrossed with every moment that I didn’t read it like that. Of course every time I caught myself thinking I knew what was coming I was wrong (which is what I love about this series). I was so blindsided on some of the stuff I caught myself saying to myself I should have seen that coming.
At one point after being blind-sided again I realized that I wasn’t even trying to figure out what was going on I was just so into every moment that was written down whether it was a description of a room or a tension in her chest.
The whole Terrible snubbing her through most of the book was painful but she totally deserved it. I was begging him to let her off the hook, not because I think he should have but because I WANTED them back together. SO I’M SELFISH SHOOT ME!!!!.
What a great ending and nice edition to my favorites shelf!!
July 17, 2012
Wow, what a ride!! I had such a hard time putting this book down.
This book gets STRAIGHT back into the action, and doesn’t let up until the heart-pumping, fingernail-biting climax. As usual there are lots of spooky ghosts and very descriptive gore, but this book had even more twists and turns than the others in the series, and it took me longer than usual to figure out who exactly was the bad guy.
And through it all, Chess is still Chess, and for all of her fucked-up-ness, I absolutely love her!
She was alive, and she was stuck in this fucking tunnel, and she had just broken a fuck of a hex ward, and now she was going to have to walk through the toad-door into who-the-fuck-knew-what with someone who touched her only under duress. Some days it just didn’t pay to get out of bed.
And of course there’s Terrible *sigh*. Of course he’s still pissed off with the events from book 2, and he lets Chess know it.
Terrible’s eyes narrowed; he gave Chess the kind of look most people reserved for ax murderers. Ax murderers who killed children. And kittens.
The chemistry between these two is off the freaking charts, and it finally explodes in an insanely intense fight, fuelled with emotion . Of course the issues are still there between them, and things aren’t worked out for them straight away, but I love that Chess is the one who finally puts herself out there for him. All while kicking bad guy ass of course!
Yes, there is a happy ending, but I get the feeling that things won’t be all smooth and happy for our beloved Chess just yet. Can’t wait to continue on with the series.
This book gets STRAIGHT back into the action, and doesn’t let up until the heart-pumping, fingernail-biting climax. As usual there are lots of spooky ghosts and very descriptive gore, but this book had even more twists and turns than the others in the series, and it took me longer than usual to figure out who exactly was the bad guy.
And through it all, Chess is still Chess, and for all of her fucked-up-ness, I absolutely love her!
She was alive, and she was stuck in this fucking tunnel, and she had just broken a fuck of a hex ward, and now she was going to have to walk through the toad-door into who-the-fuck-knew-what with someone who touched her only under duress. Some days it just didn’t pay to get out of bed.
And of course there’s Terrible *sigh*. Of course he’s still pissed off with the events from book 2, and he lets Chess know it.
Terrible’s eyes narrowed; he gave Chess the kind of look most people reserved for ax murderers. Ax murderers who killed children. And kittens.
The chemistry between these two is off the freaking charts, and it finally explodes in an insanely intense fight, fuelled with emotion . Of course the issues are still there between them, and things aren’t worked out for them straight away, but I love that Chess is the one who finally puts herself out there for him. All while kicking bad guy ass of course!
Yes, there is a happy ending, but I get the feeling that things won’t be all smooth and happy for our beloved Chess just yet. Can’t wait to continue on with the series.
February 1, 2019
This is the book where Terrible and Chess finally confront their feelings, whether it’s attraction, betrayal, loneliness etc. They just couldn’t stay away from each other. I read the kindle version the first time and now I’m listening to it. The narrator Bahni Turpin is one of my favorites. She is amazing in this series. I don’t think I ever really appreciated her range before this. But she brought this series to life.
I have to add that I still like Lex, it is just that Terrrible is THE ONE for Chess.
I have to add that I still like Lex, it is just that Terrrible is THE ONE for Chess.
June 10, 2017
The Lamaru are back. Chess is working a case so big that she had to be Bound to silence. Terrible still hasn't forgiven her. So much going on in this book, and I never wanted it to end!! In my review for the last book, I said it took the series to a whole new level, but this was way beyond even that. So much gut-wrenching pain! But the ending left a big sappy smile on my face. I LOVED it!!!
April 3, 2014
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
No spoilers and colorful language abound!
Unholy Ghosts Review
Unholy Magic Review
I am only three books into this series and I know without a moments hesitation that there will never be another that can fill the hole it will inevitably leave in my chest. Its' no holds barred absurdly ridiculous characters, the juxtaposition of the depths they can sink to the sudden heights they can sore is un-fucking-paralled. The hardened aloofness of a Downsider allows the reader to judge them harshly as the scum of society, but that is a mere distraction you see. Then suddenly and before you can sense it, the smooth slither of the rich variety and sincerity of their emotions wraps around your chest, and squeezes, you are left breathless and dizzy. I live for this.
Downside Ghosts is everything a book should be, you become an interloper, transported into a life and held hostage throughout their journey, powerless, engrossed and maybe a bit disgusted. Regardless of why you are emotionally invested, the simple truth is you will be. This is not a story filled with mediocre feelings and predictable plot twists. Kane with the aid of Chess, Terrible and the cast of misfits that surround them weave a complex and troubling tale that lacks a filter from the true ugliness the human mind is capable of. In fact, it screams it at you, it whispers, it taunts you, it engulfs the mind and saturates you. As I said, it's everything a book should be.
The interpersonal relationships are just as complex and painful as the world they live in, but none quite like Chess and Terrible. It's not about romance or sex or lust. It's not about smexy scenes to sell books. It's not about crappy forced teenage angst. It's not about a vapid love triangle manufactured to create conflict. It's about two individuals floating along in the sewage of life, who despite the horrors of their upbringing managed to keep just a small glimmer of hope alive, and they have protected it at all costs. It's about the extraordinary bravery required to make a connection of trust, even though life has taught them that this is the one thing you never do. It's heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time.
PS.
This ending:
P.P.S.
Me until I finish this series:
and when I finally do... oh it's going to be tragic:
No spoilers and colorful language abound!
Unholy Ghosts Review
Unholy Magic Review
I am only three books into this series and I know without a moments hesitation that there will never be another that can fill the hole it will inevitably leave in my chest. Its' no holds barred absurdly ridiculous characters, the juxtaposition of the depths they can sink to the sudden heights they can sore is un-fucking-paralled. The hardened aloofness of a Downsider allows the reader to judge them harshly as the scum of society, but that is a mere distraction you see. Then suddenly and before you can sense it, the smooth slither of the rich variety and sincerity of their emotions wraps around your chest, and squeezes, you are left breathless and dizzy. I live for this.
Downside Ghosts is everything a book should be, you become an interloper, transported into a life and held hostage throughout their journey, powerless, engrossed and maybe a bit disgusted. Regardless of why you are emotionally invested, the simple truth is you will be. This is not a story filled with mediocre feelings and predictable plot twists. Kane with the aid of Chess, Terrible and the cast of misfits that surround them weave a complex and troubling tale that lacks a filter from the true ugliness the human mind is capable of. In fact, it screams it at you, it whispers, it taunts you, it engulfs the mind and saturates you. As I said, it's everything a book should be.
The interpersonal relationships are just as complex and painful as the world they live in, but none quite like Chess and Terrible. It's not about romance or sex or lust. It's not about smexy scenes to sell books. It's not about crappy forced teenage angst. It's not about a vapid love triangle manufactured to create conflict. It's about two individuals floating along in the sewage of life, who despite the horrors of their upbringing managed to keep just a small glimmer of hope alive, and they have protected it at all costs. It's about the extraordinary bravery required to make a connection of trust, even though life has taught them that this is the one thing you never do. It's heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time.
PS.
This ending:
P.P.S.
Me until I finish this series:
and when I finally do... oh it's going to be tragic:
August 14, 2013
I can't believe that I've just discovered the amazing force that is Stacia Kane. Say what you will about this series, but her brilliance behind the pen is almost shocking. Especially in a time like this, where anyone with a laptop and an Amazon account can call themselves an author. (Note: No offence intended, I've been known to love those stories, too!) Sometimes, while reading these books, I have to take a step back and just appreciate the writing ability behind this story. There are so many different types of characters, languages, and lores woven into this Downside series, and she just ACES them all! I haven't been this in love with slang and violence since I read Anthony Burgess. Real talk.
Okay, enough SK fan-girling.
Here is the third story in series, and here is where everything clicked into place for me.
While reading Unholy Ghosts and Unholy Magic I became engrossed in the story of drug-addled Chess Putnam, hitman Terrible, the Church of Truth, psychopomps, and even Lex Get-the-hell-out-of-here-please. It was fascinating, seeing how they dealt with their issues, each other, and the constant threat of Death by the Deceased. Fascinating, but... I was removed. Because my life doesn't resemble ANY of these people in ANY way. I didn't make an instant connection to them because I "got" them, dig? I was just wrapped up in however they were going to handle their next big problem.
Then came this beautiful disaster of a book.
At some point along this journey, I started really REALLY caring about Chess. I stopped rubbernecking at her train wreck of a life, and actually started rooting for her. Sure, this girl is a disaster. I've said it before and I'll say it again. But - and perhaps this is because she's trying to right at least one of her wrongs in this book - I want her to be okay. I want her to be the one to say "I told you so". I want her to be the one that fixes the church's problems. I want her to find happiness with Terrible. I want her to have more moments of joy than she's been given. I just... I care about her! I really, really do!
Besides all of the chaos and utter terror that consumes you as read this book (because there is a lot, people), there are the Chess/Terrible moments that twist your heart around in your chest. So raw. Just... so raw. So fucking brilliant!!
Okay, before I go BACK into my "Stacia Kane is the shit" rant, I'll just end this, yeah? I really, really recommend that you give this series a chance. Give this author a chance. She deserves it, and you deserve to read it. :-)
February 9, 2015
Buddy read with The Dames MacHalo :D
July 16, 2014
4.5 stars
"Only through penitence and pain is forgiveness possible.
—The Book of Truth, Veraxis, Article 72"
Downside World 301 by Mimi
Well, you know the way by now... I have to admit I wasn't as concerned about the world and fact-collecting here. Just waiting for them to finally get together distracting me from...well almost anything else. But here it goes.
* Psychopomps were very present here and I think I figured out the deal.
"Chess had never known if psychopomps actually came back to life, if they were for the brief time of their use breathing creatures with pumping hearts. Seemed they weren’t. They weren’t animals at all, just reanimated corpses, empty shells full of instinct and magic."
But then later it's mentioned the animal doesn't need to die in order to make a psychopomp. But basically the skull is the animals'. It allows you to summon the physical form of said animal. Then that form hounds ghosts to the City.
*There are wraiths, too...
"Wraiths. A witch’s freed living soul, joined with one of the restless undead. A ghost cranked on living energy, strengthened by magic, its living partner giving it the ability to do what astrally projected spirits could do: fly."
Not sure about that, but next to Chess&Terrible...Who cares?
*Still not sure what the Hand of Glory thing is? Chess carries it around and it's connected to magic, so...
*There is an inner organization at the Church-Black Squad. Church law enforcement.
The story
Remember that unexplained scene in book #2? The one with the seance and the almost-poisoning? Well apparently it's important here! The witch is being executed at the beginning, but it turns out she was Bound to a spirit and that ghost kills someone. At the same time Chess is contracted by her Elder Griffin. But before she does it she has to make an oath to the original Elders, which bounds her and kills her if she breaks the terms-silence and obedience.
Anyway, the bad conspirators are back, in Downside this time and she must investigate them with Laura, an obnoxious enforcer (of Black Squad).
At the same time(you've guessed it) she has to work an angle with the drug dealer and Terrible. So she can't say anything to them about the job, or to the Church about what she does for them. So she investigates, almost gets killed, and of course, pulls through.
Now onto more important things...
Chess&Terrible
This was such a drama here. I genuinely liked seeing Chess suffer a bit for everything that happened. And she does suffer and feels guilty. But this time she knows what she wants and what she feels-and she FIGHTS for it. She doesn't take pills and screw up other people's lives, she takes pills and tries to fix them.
There's so much I learned about Chess along the way. Sometimes she lets pain and bitterness overwhelm her...
"You let people into your life and you ended up getting hurt. Or hurting them. Either way, the road to pain was paved with other people, and she wanted no part of it anymore."
"Chess lied to herself every day; it was just something she did, like taking her pills or making sure she had a pen in her bag. Little lies, mostly. Insignificant. Of course there were big ones there, too, like telling herself that she was more than just a junkie who got lucky enough to possess a talent not everyone had. That she was alone by choice and that she was not terrified of other people because they couldn’t be trusted, because they carried filth in their minds and pain in their hands and they would smear both all over her given half the chance."
But she doesn't give up and I really like her for that. yes, for the first time I actually LIKE Chess. Who knew? And when she was breaking...
"But he’d lied too. He’d lied, because he’d told her—not in those words, but he’d told her—that he’d seen something special in her. He’d made her believe, for that one moment, those two short days between the time he’d made his little speech and that horrible night in the graveyard, that there was something special in her. Something good.And there wasn’t. And she’d hurt him, and she hated herself so much, so much for that, for making that mistake, for doing that to him, so much she couldn’t stand it another second, and he could make it stop. He could forgive her or he could punish her"
...Terrible was there to pick her up. Not forgive her that easily. Not give in so easily, but one step at the time. But, IMO, she showed here that maybe, just maybe she deserves him...
"Once she’d thought he was ugly; he still was ugly, she supposed. She just didn’t give a shit. He was who he was, and her heart fluttered in her chest and wouldn’t stop."
Finally figured out some things, I guess...
This book was definitely the most emotionally poignant so far. It's about pain and regret and as that quote at the beginning says you can't have forgiveness without them. It really is what this book's about. And I loved seeing Chess and Terrible get there.
And, of course I loved Terrible...
“He lifted his head to look at her. Giving her his eyes, giving her what was behind them. “You know I do, aye? Love you right, Chessiebomb.”
"Only through penitence and pain is forgiveness possible.
—The Book of Truth, Veraxis, Article 72"
Downside World 301 by Mimi
Well, you know the way by now... I have to admit I wasn't as concerned about the world and fact-collecting here. Just waiting for them to finally get together distracting me from...well almost anything else. But here it goes.
* Psychopomps were very present here and I think I figured out the deal.
"Chess had never known if psychopomps actually came back to life, if they were for the brief time of their use breathing creatures with pumping hearts. Seemed they weren’t. They weren’t animals at all, just reanimated corpses, empty shells full of instinct and magic."
But then later it's mentioned the animal doesn't need to die in order to make a psychopomp. But basically the skull is the animals'. It allows you to summon the physical form of said animal. Then that form hounds ghosts to the City.
*There are wraiths, too...
"Wraiths. A witch’s freed living soul, joined with one of the restless undead. A ghost cranked on living energy, strengthened by magic, its living partner giving it the ability to do what astrally projected spirits could do: fly."
Not sure about that, but next to Chess&Terrible...Who cares?
*Still not sure what the Hand of Glory thing is? Chess carries it around and it's connected to magic, so...
*There is an inner organization at the Church-Black Squad. Church law enforcement.
The story
Remember that unexplained scene in book #2? The one with the seance and the almost-poisoning? Well apparently it's important here! The witch is being executed at the beginning, but it turns out she was Bound to a spirit and that ghost kills someone. At the same time Chess is contracted by her Elder Griffin. But before she does it she has to make an oath to the original Elders, which bounds her and kills her if she breaks the terms-silence and obedience.
Anyway, the bad conspirators are back, in Downside this time and she must investigate them with Laura, an obnoxious enforcer (of Black Squad).
At the same time(you've guessed it) she has to work an angle with the drug dealer and Terrible. So she can't say anything to them about the job, or to the Church about what she does for them. So she investigates, almost gets killed, and of course, pulls through.
Now onto more important things...
Chess&Terrible
This was such a drama here. I genuinely liked seeing Chess suffer a bit for everything that happened. And she does suffer and feels guilty. But this time she knows what she wants and what she feels-and she FIGHTS for it. She doesn't take pills and screw up other people's lives, she takes pills and tries to fix them.
There's so much I learned about Chess along the way. Sometimes she lets pain and bitterness overwhelm her...
"You let people into your life and you ended up getting hurt. Or hurting them. Either way, the road to pain was paved with other people, and she wanted no part of it anymore."
"Chess lied to herself every day; it was just something she did, like taking her pills or making sure she had a pen in her bag. Little lies, mostly. Insignificant. Of course there were big ones there, too, like telling herself that she was more than just a junkie who got lucky enough to possess a talent not everyone had. That she was alone by choice and that she was not terrified of other people because they couldn’t be trusted, because they carried filth in their minds and pain in their hands and they would smear both all over her given half the chance."
But she doesn't give up and I really like her for that. yes, for the first time I actually LIKE Chess. Who knew? And when she was breaking...
"But he’d lied too. He’d lied, because he’d told her—not in those words, but he’d told her—that he’d seen something special in her. He’d made her believe, for that one moment, those two short days between the time he’d made his little speech and that horrible night in the graveyard, that there was something special in her. Something good.And there wasn’t. And she’d hurt him, and she hated herself so much, so much for that, for making that mistake, for doing that to him, so much she couldn’t stand it another second, and he could make it stop. He could forgive her or he could punish her"
...Terrible was there to pick her up. Not forgive her that easily. Not give in so easily, but one step at the time. But, IMO, she showed here that maybe, just maybe she deserves him...
"Once she’d thought he was ugly; he still was ugly, she supposed. She just didn’t give a shit. He was who he was, and her heart fluttered in her chest and wouldn’t stop."
Finally figured out some things, I guess...
This book was definitely the most emotionally poignant so far. It's about pain and regret and as that quote at the beginning says you can't have forgiveness without them. It really is what this book's about. And I loved seeing Chess and Terrible get there.
And, of course I loved Terrible...
“He lifted his head to look at her. Giving her his eyes, giving her what was behind them. “You know I do, aye? Love you right, Chessiebomb.”
July 28, 2010
From Kindleliciousreads.com:
Whoa. I literally just finished this book and ‘Whoa’ pretty much sums up how I feel about it. I don’t want to recap this book. There are just so many twists and turns that there is no way I can discuss without giving something away. And I don’t want to give anything away! If you read the first two Downside books, you know what to expect, but Stacia Kane really upped the stakes this time. If the first two books were ‘dark urban fantasy’, this one teeters on horror. Some of the scenes were downright disturbing to the point where I had to force myself to keep reading. But it’s not mindless horror like the latest Saw movie, where people you barely know are butchered for cheap thrills. It’s horrific things happening to you have come to genuinely care about. People that are so incredibly damaged but still manage to do the right thing…even when they just keep getting beaten down. You barely make it out of a scene alive and suddenly you find yourself swooning over a huge, ugly hitman and a drug addict witch and praying that they can somehow find a slice of happiness in the Downside. To me, that’s why these books are so great. One minute I was reading with one eye open barely hanging on while a fire rages in a slaughterhouse, and the next minute Terrible drops Chess down a tunnel and has me in tears…AGAIN. I really cannot recall a series that evoked this much emotion. I would say Harry Potter is the closest thing, but there is absolutely no way to compare the two. Here is what I can say: this book has it all. Mystery, horror, fantasy, suspense (Oh the suspense!), and romance all flowing seamlessly. Some of the best, most though-provoking characters I have ever read. And the sex…wow. (Cause let’s be honest, we were all praying for some Chess and Terrible closure.) I want to discuss that tunnel scene so bad I can hardly stand it!! To say it was hot would just cheapen it. There were way too many emotions for ‘hot.’ Gut-wrenchingly satisfying is a much better description. So to conclude my mindless gushing I will say this: if you read the first two, then why the hell aren’t you reading this one yet? If you didn’t, then you need some Terrible in your life ASAP.
Rating: Off the charts.
Whoa. I literally just finished this book and ‘Whoa’ pretty much sums up how I feel about it. I don’t want to recap this book. There are just so many twists and turns that there is no way I can discuss without giving something away. And I don’t want to give anything away! If you read the first two Downside books, you know what to expect, but Stacia Kane really upped the stakes this time. If the first two books were ‘dark urban fantasy’, this one teeters on horror. Some of the scenes were downright disturbing to the point where I had to force myself to keep reading. But it’s not mindless horror like the latest Saw movie, where people you barely know are butchered for cheap thrills. It’s horrific things happening to you have come to genuinely care about. People that are so incredibly damaged but still manage to do the right thing…even when they just keep getting beaten down. You barely make it out of a scene alive and suddenly you find yourself swooning over a huge, ugly hitman and a drug addict witch and praying that they can somehow find a slice of happiness in the Downside. To me, that’s why these books are so great. One minute I was reading with one eye open barely hanging on while a fire rages in a slaughterhouse, and the next minute Terrible drops Chess down a tunnel and has me in tears…AGAIN. I really cannot recall a series that evoked this much emotion. I would say Harry Potter is the closest thing, but there is absolutely no way to compare the two. Here is what I can say: this book has it all. Mystery, horror, fantasy, suspense (Oh the suspense!), and romance all flowing seamlessly. Some of the best, most though-provoking characters I have ever read. And the sex…wow. (Cause let’s be honest, we were all praying for some Chess and Terrible closure.) I want to discuss that tunnel scene so bad I can hardly stand it!! To say it was hot would just cheapen it. There were way too many emotions for ‘hot.’ Gut-wrenchingly satisfying is a much better description. So to conclude my mindless gushing I will say this: if you read the first two, then why the hell aren’t you reading this one yet? If you didn’t, then you need some Terrible in your life ASAP.
Rating: Off the charts.
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