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Underworld Cycle #2
Skeleton Crew
Bodies are hitting the pavement in L.A. like they always do, but this time they're getting right back up, death be damned. My mobbed-up outfit of magicians may be the strongest in the city, but even they aren't immune to the living dead.
And I've yet to develop a resistance to Adan Rashan.
If I don't team up with the boss's son, we won't just be at each other's throats over control of the outfit. We'll be craving hearts and brains, as well.
Because as long as this nasty spirit from the Between is stopping souls from finding peace, I'm facing the biggest supernatural crisis to ever hit the City of Angels.
Zombies, it's time you feared me.
And I've yet to develop a resistance to Adan Rashan.
If I don't team up with the boss's son, we won't just be at each other's throats over control of the outfit. We'll be craving hearts and brains, as well.
Because as long as this nasty spirit from the Between is stopping souls from finding peace, I'm facing the biggest supernatural crisis to ever hit the City of Angels.
Zombies, it's time you feared me.
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
9 people are currently reading
279 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 8, 2011
Domino Riley is practically the top dog in her outfit as her mobster boss has handed almost all of the reigns over to her. While this may have been her life's admiration, it means the buck stops with her and she is responsible for anything that could go wrong. So when zombies start showing up and "reproducing" like crazy, she knows she's in trouble, but that it is up to her to get to the bottom of things. Of course the distraction of her attraction to her boss's son Adan, doesn't help things. She'll have to team up with him as well as her other allies in order to have any chance at stopping the zombie Apocalypse. Luckily she has some kick butt skills to back her otherwise, there would be no hope for this little sorceress.
The saying goes "Be careful what you wish for because you just might get it." Domino learned this hard lesson in Skeleton Crew as she may have gotten her wish to lead a war effort to help people. However, it came with a horrible cost that she never could have predicted. If she fails in her efforts, millions of lives will be lost, the stakes really are that high. Domino of course keeps her cool and continues to be the driving force. She really is everything a leader needs to be. I found it amusing that the Fairy King kept taking her orders for where he was to concentrate his efforts considering he is supposed to be so much more powerful. In fact, she pretty much controlled the plans the entire book. Perhaps she has more influence than she truly realizes.
I really love the dynamic between the characters in this series. They are so fully fleshed out and their relationships are completely realized. You can't help but to care for them, and want to root them on. The Piskies continue to add a softer side that really helps to balance out Domino's outward gruffness. The sexual tension between Domino and Aden is also rather thick, perhaps more on her side, but this helps to ground her character even more. All of the characters seem to carry a certain amount of respect for Domino, and I am very happy that she continues to work very hard to make sure deserves it. She definitely is my favorite "good" bad guy.
Let me just say that while I enjoyed the first book, this one blew it out of the water. The stakes are just that much higher, however I never once felt weighed down by this, and found the pacing to be very good. Just as soon as a fight scene would start to feel a little overwhelming, it would end, proving this author sure knows how to keep the perfect balance between action, plot, and story. The ending caught me slightly off guard, but I think it set things up for an interesting future. These books are urban fantasy at their finest, and this is one author you will want to watch out for. Major kudos for another great novel that left me more than entertained!
The saying goes "Be careful what you wish for because you just might get it." Domino learned this hard lesson in Skeleton Crew as she may have gotten her wish to lead a war effort to help people. However, it came with a horrible cost that she never could have predicted. If she fails in her efforts, millions of lives will be lost, the stakes really are that high. Domino of course keeps her cool and continues to be the driving force. She really is everything a leader needs to be. I found it amusing that the Fairy King kept taking her orders for where he was to concentrate his efforts considering he is supposed to be so much more powerful. In fact, she pretty much controlled the plans the entire book. Perhaps she has more influence than she truly realizes.
I really love the dynamic between the characters in this series. They are so fully fleshed out and their relationships are completely realized. You can't help but to care for them, and want to root them on. The Piskies continue to add a softer side that really helps to balance out Domino's outward gruffness. The sexual tension between Domino and Aden is also rather thick, perhaps more on her side, but this helps to ground her character even more. All of the characters seem to carry a certain amount of respect for Domino, and I am very happy that she continues to work very hard to make sure deserves it. She definitely is my favorite "good" bad guy.
Let me just say that while I enjoyed the first book, this one blew it out of the water. The stakes are just that much higher, however I never once felt weighed down by this, and found the pacing to be very good. Just as soon as a fight scene would start to feel a little overwhelming, it would end, proving this author sure knows how to keep the perfect balance between action, plot, and story. The ending caught me slightly off guard, but I think it set things up for an interesting future. These books are urban fantasy at their finest, and this is one author you will want to watch out for. Major kudos for another great novel that left me more than entertained!
April 19, 2011
This is a dark, gritty hard core Urban Fantasy. The world and characters take center stage. Most of the UF I read is heavy on the romance, but this one isn’t. There is a little bit of romance, but I didn’t miss it because I was having so much fun watching Domino and company kick demon and zombie (oh, yes, folks, there are zombies!) ass.
I haven’t read the first book in the series (Mob Rules) and I think you should before reading this book. I was still able to enjoy Skeleton Crew, but information in the first book probably would have made this one easier to understand from the beginning. I *will be reading the first one.
Our heroine, Domino, is kick-ass and smart mouthed mob sorceress. There is a hidden world that shadows our world where mobsters rule and their currency is magic. Different gangs fight over territory in an attempt to gain more magic. There are alliances and enemies, but you are hard put to find friends. Zombies are now walking and eating and Domino and her gang have to figure out why and how to stop them. This story is one violent action scene after another and filled with dry humor. It is a clever and imaginative world. The zombies aren’t like what you see in the movies as Domino finds out.
Someone who hasn’t read Mob Rules first would probably give this book a lower rating, but I am not going to dis this story, since it was my stupidity for not reading the first one. I still can recognize the world building genius Haley has created!
Example of Haley’s humor:
“Everyone has an irrational fear. For some people it’s spiders, for other it’s snakes, or maybe clowns. I have a big fucking problem with zombies. I can deal with ghosts- even the really creepy ones. Hell, I share my condo with a spook, an old woman named Mrs. Dawson. I can also deal with dead bodies-as long as they stay down. If they get up and try to eat me, that’s just too fucking much.”
A look into Domino’s head:
“I’d done a lot of bad things in my life. I wasn’t an innocent. I didn’t dwell on it, I didn’t cry about it, but I knew there was evil inside me. Maybe it had always been there or maybe I’d had a choice somewhere along the line and I’d done it to myself. It didn’t matter-it was there all the same. I’d thought I could give my life some meaning, some purpose, by turning that darkness against a darkness greater still. I couldn’t change what I was but I could be the lesser of two evils. I could be the devil you know.
I haven’t read the first book in the series (Mob Rules) and I think you should before reading this book. I was still able to enjoy Skeleton Crew, but information in the first book probably would have made this one easier to understand from the beginning. I *will be reading the first one.
Our heroine, Domino, is kick-ass and smart mouthed mob sorceress. There is a hidden world that shadows our world where mobsters rule and their currency is magic. Different gangs fight over territory in an attempt to gain more magic. There are alliances and enemies, but you are hard put to find friends. Zombies are now walking and eating and Domino and her gang have to figure out why and how to stop them. This story is one violent action scene after another and filled with dry humor. It is a clever and imaginative world. The zombies aren’t like what you see in the movies as Domino finds out.
Someone who hasn’t read Mob Rules first would probably give this book a lower rating, but I am not going to dis this story, since it was my stupidity for not reading the first one. I still can recognize the world building genius Haley has created!
Example of Haley’s humor:
“Everyone has an irrational fear. For some people it’s spiders, for other it’s snakes, or maybe clowns. I have a big fucking problem with zombies. I can deal with ghosts- even the really creepy ones. Hell, I share my condo with a spook, an old woman named Mrs. Dawson. I can also deal with dead bodies-as long as they stay down. If they get up and try to eat me, that’s just too fucking much.”
A look into Domino’s head:
“I’d done a lot of bad things in my life. I wasn’t an innocent. I didn’t dwell on it, I didn’t cry about it, but I knew there was evil inside me. Maybe it had always been there or maybe I’d had a choice somewhere along the line and I’d done it to myself. It didn’t matter-it was there all the same. I’d thought I could give my life some meaning, some purpose, by turning that darkness against a darkness greater still. I couldn’t change what I was but I could be the lesser of two evils. I could be the devil you know.
May 10, 2011
Favorite Lines: “Everyone has an irrational fear. For some people it’s spiders, for others it’s snakes, or maybe clowns. I have a big fucking problem with zombies. I can deal with ghosts–even the really creepy ones. Hell, I share my condo with a spook, an old woman named Mrs. Dawson. I can also deal with dead bodies–as long as they stay down. If they get up and try to eat me, that’s just too fucking much.” (p. 15)
Skeleton Crew is book two in Cameron Haley’s Underworld Cycle series. If you haven’t read book one, I wouldn’t recommend picking this one up for your first look into the world of magic and gangs. Read Mob Rules first.
The story is told from the heroine Domino’s point of view as she tries to unravel her feelings for her boss’s son while warding off attacking zombies. I wasn’t excited about this book before it came out. However now that I’ve read it, I can’t wait for the next to see what happens. Haley is leading us toward a gigantic, world-changing battle.
Okay, let me try to give you something to compare this book to. Hmmm…Dawn of the Dead meets a hybrid of Ilona Andrews’ Kate Daniels and a gangster general. There are huge masses of zombies looking to feed and a woman determined to stop them. She is a leader, kick ass gangsta and caring but realistic woman. Skeleton Crew forced her to dig deep, think outside the box and trust herself. Just when I thought Domino would give up, she would flip the script.
Besides Domino, one thing I like about the book is the realistic dialogue; I could almost hear the different characters speak. I’ll admit that I wasn’t overly impressed with the first book of the series, Mob Rules. This book is different. It’s action packed with demons, zombies and ghosts, all of whom want a piece of Domino. The idea of zombies is also different from any I’ve ever heard or read. This change in mythology made the story extremely enjoyable.
If you’re reading this book expecting to get a lot of relationship interaction between Adan and Domino you will be disappointed. Skeleton Crew is more of a subtle glances type of book. Not much seems to go on for most of the book. (Hello zombies!) But when the heat explodes…
Don’t expect a nice and neat ending to this book. There is no cliffhanger and you need to remember that is not a romance. That’s all you’ll get out of me. Now go read the book. Come back and we’ll talk about it. :)
Trash it or Stash it? Stash it on your bookshelf to read again. It’s got action out the wazoo and there is a scene involving a demon mother that is so revolting that you just gotta read it. Skeleton Crew is an urban fantasy with heavy emphasis on the urban when it comes to dialogue and the mentality of most of the characters. It’s better than its predecessor and hopefully sets the tone for the books to come.
Scooper Speaks
Skeleton Crew is book two in Cameron Haley’s Underworld Cycle series. If you haven’t read book one, I wouldn’t recommend picking this one up for your first look into the world of magic and gangs. Read Mob Rules first.
The story is told from the heroine Domino’s point of view as she tries to unravel her feelings for her boss’s son while warding off attacking zombies. I wasn’t excited about this book before it came out. However now that I’ve read it, I can’t wait for the next to see what happens. Haley is leading us toward a gigantic, world-changing battle.
Okay, let me try to give you something to compare this book to. Hmmm…Dawn of the Dead meets a hybrid of Ilona Andrews’ Kate Daniels and a gangster general. There are huge masses of zombies looking to feed and a woman determined to stop them. She is a leader, kick ass gangsta and caring but realistic woman. Skeleton Crew forced her to dig deep, think outside the box and trust herself. Just when I thought Domino would give up, she would flip the script.
Besides Domino, one thing I like about the book is the realistic dialogue; I could almost hear the different characters speak. I’ll admit that I wasn’t overly impressed with the first book of the series, Mob Rules. This book is different. It’s action packed with demons, zombies and ghosts, all of whom want a piece of Domino. The idea of zombies is also different from any I’ve ever heard or read. This change in mythology made the story extremely enjoyable.
If you’re reading this book expecting to get a lot of relationship interaction between Adan and Domino you will be disappointed. Skeleton Crew is more of a subtle glances type of book. Not much seems to go on for most of the book. (Hello zombies!) But when the heat explodes…
Don’t expect a nice and neat ending to this book. There is no cliffhanger and you need to remember that is not a romance. That’s all you’ll get out of me. Now go read the book. Come back and we’ll talk about it. :)
Trash it or Stash it? Stash it on your bookshelf to read again. It’s got action out the wazoo and there is a scene involving a demon mother that is so revolting that you just gotta read it. Skeleton Crew is an urban fantasy with heavy emphasis on the urban when it comes to dialogue and the mentality of most of the characters. It’s better than its predecessor and hopefully sets the tone for the books to come.
Scooper Speaks
December 14, 2014
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I read the first volume a long time ago and I really enjoyed it. I must say that Domino doesn’t have an easy life. I was immediately attracted this time by the synopsis featuring zombies. We do not expect it at all after finishing the first novel. But what a nice surprise! I have not read a lot of novels about zombies but it was a good opportunity to read this one.
Domino will not have the time to get bored in this new volume. Indeed, in addition to her is regular work, some very strange events occur. A lot of persons are dying to finally become a zombie. The concern? Like all living dead, they want only one thing, food. But they are far from being idiots and some do not even realize they are dead before feeling this strange hunger. No, a person bitten by one of these creatures does not become one, but it does not take much for a human to perish and so to be turned. It’s the reason why the number of zombies increases continuously, and nobody knows what will happen to the city in the end. But our heroine is determined to find a solution and to combine all the people who can help her to achieve this goal. But everyone has an idea in mind and that is always a bit difficult to know what it is exactly.
It was a very good zombie novel, I loved the idea and the reason behind this change. I must say that I did not expect to have such a cause. All the characters in the first volume are here for us, except for Dominica’s boss, and I really enjoyed meeting the mother of our heroine. I always find it interesting to be on the bad guy side and not on the nice one as it is usually the case in the books. Well, all this is very subjective when we see how they behave. But as in the first novel, we perfectly feel the power struggles and the mafioso side of each Boss. Domino must manage more than she can actually do but it is actually her work. She must also deal with the real Adan and her feelings (which is quite complicated by the way). I admit that I was looking forward to see what would happen between them, everything is so ambiguous throughout the story, but I loved to see them together. Honey is also a character that I enjoyed, she is always there for Domino and is much more formidable and redoubtable than we might think.
However, I admit that I was very surprised at the end and it broke my heart to see that the events were ending like that. But it also adds more logic and reality to the story, because the world is not always white, and shades of gray always appear. Dominica is a strong and courageous woman, this volume shows us the meaning perfectly. A very good second novel and I sincerely hope that there will be a third (if someone knows something about that…), as I look forward to following her adventures.
My English review
I read the first volume a long time ago and I really enjoyed it. I must say that Domino doesn’t have an easy life. I was immediately attracted this time by the synopsis featuring zombies. We do not expect it at all after finishing the first novel. But what a nice surprise! I have not read a lot of novels about zombies but it was a good opportunity to read this one.
Domino will not have the time to get bored in this new volume. Indeed, in addition to her is regular work, some very strange events occur. A lot of persons are dying to finally become a zombie. The concern? Like all living dead, they want only one thing, food. But they are far from being idiots and some do not even realize they are dead before feeling this strange hunger. No, a person bitten by one of these creatures does not become one, but it does not take much for a human to perish and so to be turned. It’s the reason why the number of zombies increases continuously, and nobody knows what will happen to the city in the end. But our heroine is determined to find a solution and to combine all the people who can help her to achieve this goal. But everyone has an idea in mind and that is always a bit difficult to know what it is exactly.
It was a very good zombie novel, I loved the idea and the reason behind this change. I must say that I did not expect to have such a cause. All the characters in the first volume are here for us, except for Dominica’s boss, and I really enjoyed meeting the mother of our heroine. I always find it interesting to be on the bad guy side and not on the nice one as it is usually the case in the books. Well, all this is very subjective when we see how they behave. But as in the first novel, we perfectly feel the power struggles and the mafioso side of each Boss. Domino must manage more than she can actually do but it is actually her work. She must also deal with the real Adan and her feelings (which is quite complicated by the way). I admit that I was looking forward to see what would happen between them, everything is so ambiguous throughout the story, but I loved to see them together. Honey is also a character that I enjoyed, she is always there for Domino and is much more formidable and redoubtable than we might think.
However, I admit that I was very surprised at the end and it broke my heart to see that the events were ending like that. But it also adds more logic and reality to the story, because the world is not always white, and shades of gray always appear. Dominica is a strong and courageous woman, this volume shows us the meaning perfectly. A very good second novel and I sincerely hope that there will be a third (if someone knows something about that…), as I look forward to following her adventures.
May 2, 2011
I was thrilled to get my hands on Skeleton Crew, as I thought Mob Rules was terrific and right from the opening scenes we are thrown straight back into the maelstrom of violence and magic that is LA in this alternate world. The uneasy peace Domino brokered is threatened by a greedy gang headed by Mobley who has unleashed Demons in a quest for more power and unintentionally triggered a plague of zombies that threaten to destroy the entire city. Domino needs to figure out what is causing the dead to rise, and then defeat the encroaching evil as it bleeds into existence.
The Underworld Cycle series is a gritty urban fantasy that embraces the violence of the power struggle between good and evil. Events are graphic (particularly that spawning bug), the language at times can be crude but it has an authenticity that works within this context. Haley's world is creative and intriguing for it's detail and scope. King of the Seelie fairies, Oberon runs a nightclub, ghosts linger at the veil of realities and evil lurks in a shadow world called the between.
Domino is very likeable, she is self aware, even if conflicted over what she does and what she wants and strong, determined and brave. Her relationship with Aden is resolved in this installment though not as you might expect. She still has the support of Honey, is tormented by her resident ghost and djinn familar all who make an interesting cast.
With the addition of confused and hungry zombies the action in Skeleton Crew is non stop and the pace pulls you along at breakneck speed. I reluctantly put it down at 4 in the morning after foolishly thinking I would just read a few pages when I went to bed at 2am, and barely made it through the next day on 2 hours sleep.
This series is shaping up to be a favourite of mine, I really enjoy everything about it and I am already eager for the third.
The Underworld Cycle series is a gritty urban fantasy that embraces the violence of the power struggle between good and evil. Events are graphic (particularly that spawning bug), the language at times can be crude but it has an authenticity that works within this context. Haley's world is creative and intriguing for it's detail and scope. King of the Seelie fairies, Oberon runs a nightclub, ghosts linger at the veil of realities and evil lurks in a shadow world called the between.
Domino is very likeable, she is self aware, even if conflicted over what she does and what she wants and strong, determined and brave. Her relationship with Aden is resolved in this installment though not as you might expect. She still has the support of Honey, is tormented by her resident ghost and djinn familar all who make an interesting cast.
With the addition of confused and hungry zombies the action in Skeleton Crew is non stop and the pace pulls you along at breakneck speed. I reluctantly put it down at 4 in the morning after foolishly thinking I would just read a few pages when I went to bed at 2am, and barely made it through the next day on 2 hours sleep.
This series is shaping up to be a favourite of mine, I really enjoy everything about it and I am already eager for the third.
April 4, 2011
While I ultimately found this to be an entertaining and highly imaginative read, I had a tough time falling into the mythology of the story in the beginning. Not having read the first book, it was a struggle deciphering the lingo and figuring out the rules of the world. Once things started falling into place, however, it was a hoot.
I really liked the grittiness of the world that Domino and her crew live in. It's not pretty and there's death around nearly every corner but it has definite character and it's interesting. Domino herself is intriguing. She's not necessarily a good person (it comes with the territory when you're a badass gang leader, I guess) but she's trying to find a balance and stick to it. As for the other characters, Adan seemed interesting but we never really got to know him. Honestly, Domino stole the show. Everything came back to her. Honey, Adan, the Burning Man, even Oberon and Titiana all revolved around her. Maybe I would have had a different impression of them if I had read book 1, but in this book they're all sidekicks. Their actions bolster Domino and give her the means to save the day.
All in all, while I enjoyed this book I would recommend reading book 1 first so you aren't fighting through the first chapters to catch up. And despite that- or maybe because of it- I'm intrigued enough to go see how Domino's story started.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
I really liked the grittiness of the world that Domino and her crew live in. It's not pretty and there's death around nearly every corner but it has definite character and it's interesting. Domino herself is intriguing. She's not necessarily a good person (it comes with the territory when you're a badass gang leader, I guess) but she's trying to find a balance and stick to it. As for the other characters, Adan seemed interesting but we never really got to know him. Honestly, Domino stole the show. Everything came back to her. Honey, Adan, the Burning Man, even Oberon and Titiana all revolved around her. Maybe I would have had a different impression of them if I had read book 1, but in this book they're all sidekicks. Their actions bolster Domino and give her the means to save the day.
All in all, while I enjoyed this book I would recommend reading book 1 first so you aren't fighting through the first chapters to catch up. And despite that- or maybe because of it- I'm intrigued enough to go see how Domino's story started.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
May 2, 2011
Better than its predecessor. SC is a much smoother ride and it also adds to the world settings of the book. Domino as a protagonist is fun to read however honey gets a diminished role, more to come in FBC review.
May 8, 2011
Zombies have over taken L.A. and it is up to Domino, and the gangs of L.A. to save the city.
Skeleton Crew is a dark UF. It is the second book in the series. I haven’t read the first. It stands apart from every other Urban Fantasy by having a very unique magic system. Magic is pulled out of the earth, or streets themselves. Gang tags seem to help give members more magic power as well as claim territory. A number of strange and mythic figures make appearances. Some of the mythic figures like the Burning Man, and hairless dogs are hard to take seriously. The descriptions of these magical things are gritty, but also enjoyable.
The story has many interesting characters, but is mainly taken over with Domino. She is high up in a gang of L.A. The slang and language in the story is strong, what you would expect from gangs. Domino’s is a lot better than the majority of the other gang people. In fact the ‘gangs’ spend most of the book saving the world instead of committing crimes. Domino seems to run the rescue effort. She is a strong super sorceress character that everyone listens to. The only problem with her voice was that I didn’t feel scared for her. I had some problems being invested with the same worries she shared.
It never really feels like a zombie apocalypse. There is so much that goes on behind the scenes in a kind of ‘between’ world where ghosts and demons rule. Sometimes it is easy to forget that in our world there is an apocalypse on.
There is a romance in the story, but it is very light. Instead the battles take center stage. I enjoy a lot of nice detailed action, which the book has in spades. The problem lies after a couple battles. Domino’s fighting started to feel reparative. She used the same kind of spells in the same ways that started to slow things down for me.
Skeleton Crew is a dark action packed Urban Fantasy with some nice gory scenes. The middle of the story slowed down for me. I wanted to feel more involved with Domino. It has a number of interesting characters that are creative and fun. It has an original magic system and detailed story, but I was never actually scared that anything was ever lost.
Skeleton Crew is a dark UF. It is the second book in the series. I haven’t read the first. It stands apart from every other Urban Fantasy by having a very unique magic system. Magic is pulled out of the earth, or streets themselves. Gang tags seem to help give members more magic power as well as claim territory. A number of strange and mythic figures make appearances. Some of the mythic figures like the Burning Man, and hairless dogs are hard to take seriously. The descriptions of these magical things are gritty, but also enjoyable.
The story has many interesting characters, but is mainly taken over with Domino. She is high up in a gang of L.A. The slang and language in the story is strong, what you would expect from gangs. Domino’s is a lot better than the majority of the other gang people. In fact the ‘gangs’ spend most of the book saving the world instead of committing crimes. Domino seems to run the rescue effort. She is a strong super sorceress character that everyone listens to. The only problem with her voice was that I didn’t feel scared for her. I had some problems being invested with the same worries she shared.
It never really feels like a zombie apocalypse. There is so much that goes on behind the scenes in a kind of ‘between’ world where ghosts and demons rule. Sometimes it is easy to forget that in our world there is an apocalypse on.
There is a romance in the story, but it is very light. Instead the battles take center stage. I enjoy a lot of nice detailed action, which the book has in spades. The problem lies after a couple battles. Domino’s fighting started to feel reparative. She used the same kind of spells in the same ways that started to slow things down for me.
Skeleton Crew is a dark action packed Urban Fantasy with some nice gory scenes. The middle of the story slowed down for me. I wanted to feel more involved with Domino. It has a number of interesting characters that are creative and fun. It has an original magic system and detailed story, but I was never actually scared that anything was ever lost.
May 7, 2011
Zombies have over taken L.A. and it is up to Domino, and the gangs of L.A. to save the city.
Skeleton Crew is a dark UF. It is the second book in the series. I haven’t read the first. It stands apart from every other Urban Fantasy by having a very unique magic system. Magic is pulled out of the earth, or streets themselves. Gang tags seem to help give members more magic power as well as claim territory. A number of strange and mythic figures make appearances. Some of the mythic figures like the Burning Man, and hairless dogs are hard to take seriously. The descriptions of these magical things are gritty, but also enjoyable.
The story has many interesting characters, but is mainly taken over with Domino. She is high up in a gang of L.A. The slang and language in the story is strong, what you would expect from gangs. Domino’s is a lot better than the majority of the other gang people. In fact the ‘gangs’ spend most of the book saving the world instead of committing crimes. Domino seems to run the rescue effort. She is a strong super sorceress character that everyone listens to. The only problem with her voice was that I didn’t feel scared for her. I had some problems being invested with the same worries she shared.
It never really feels like a zombie apocalypse. There is so much that goes on behind the scenes in a kind of ‘between’ world where ghosts and demons rule. Sometimes it is easy to forget that in our world there is an apocalypse on.
There is a romance in the story, but it is very light. Instead the battles take center stage. I enjoy a lot of nice detailed action, which the book has in spades. The problem lies after a couple battles. Domino’s fighting started to feel reparative. She used the same kind of spells in the same ways that started to slow things down for me.
Skelton Crew is a dark action packed Urban Fantasy with some nice gory scenes. The middle of the story slowed down for me. I wanted to feel more involved with Domino. It has a number of interesting characters that are creative and fun. It has an original magic system and detailed story, but I was never actually scared that anything was ever lost.
-Beth (Guest Reviewer)
Skeleton Crew is a dark UF. It is the second book in the series. I haven’t read the first. It stands apart from every other Urban Fantasy by having a very unique magic system. Magic is pulled out of the earth, or streets themselves. Gang tags seem to help give members more magic power as well as claim territory. A number of strange and mythic figures make appearances. Some of the mythic figures like the Burning Man, and hairless dogs are hard to take seriously. The descriptions of these magical things are gritty, but also enjoyable.
The story has many interesting characters, but is mainly taken over with Domino. She is high up in a gang of L.A. The slang and language in the story is strong, what you would expect from gangs. Domino’s is a lot better than the majority of the other gang people. In fact the ‘gangs’ spend most of the book saving the world instead of committing crimes. Domino seems to run the rescue effort. She is a strong super sorceress character that everyone listens to. The only problem with her voice was that I didn’t feel scared for her. I had some problems being invested with the same worries she shared.
It never really feels like a zombie apocalypse. There is so much that goes on behind the scenes in a kind of ‘between’ world where ghosts and demons rule. Sometimes it is easy to forget that in our world there is an apocalypse on.
There is a romance in the story, but it is very light. Instead the battles take center stage. I enjoy a lot of nice detailed action, which the book has in spades. The problem lies after a couple battles. Domino’s fighting started to feel reparative. She used the same kind of spells in the same ways that started to slow things down for me.
Skelton Crew is a dark action packed Urban Fantasy with some nice gory scenes. The middle of the story slowed down for me. I wanted to feel more involved with Domino. It has a number of interesting characters that are creative and fun. It has an original magic system and detailed story, but I was never actually scared that anything was ever lost.
-Beth (Guest Reviewer)
February 9, 2012
When I started turning the pages of this book, at first I was a little lost with all this magic lingo, all this juice and outfits and world rules, and then Domino's thing with Adan - who by the way I find mysteriously charming. But slowly yet surely, as soon as I got the hang of it, I began to be drawn to this very exciting world of magic, demons, fairies, and yeah - zombies. Now Zombies here are different - yes they still want to eat people, but they can still think and act normal. Often times they dont know they are dead until this uncontrollable urge to eat people hits them. Its a totally new twist for me, and I liked it.
This story, though, revolved mainly on Domino. Everything always seems to get back to her - like most of the characters are just there to ensure that she'll be the heroine we all expect her to be at the end of the day. Although its a good thing coz it makes the readers' empathy focused on one person only - it made me feel like the rest of the characters lack identity. But maybe coz it has already been established in the first book? See now I really must get my hand on that book.
The ending is a little surprising. I dont know whether Cameron is highlighting some culture's practice or tradition - but the story when the husband must leave and wander in the wild while the wife raise their child on her own - it sounds a little too stereotyped for me. I strongly believe that when a couple gets married, its either they wander together exploring the world - or they settle down and raise a family. That's why its called tying the knot, right? Oh ignore me - just another attack of the romantic side of me. Haha. Nonetheless, I do like the ending. It leaves me with something to hope for for Domino and Adan.
Overall, this has been a very exciting read for me. Its like a non-stop action that'll keep you wanting to turn the pages faster to know what'll happen next. I like Domino's character - a little bad-ass, a little softie - very likable. I like the story, very unique with its highly interesting magic system. And the plot is anything but boring! This, indeed, is another urban fantasy book that I would highly recommend.
This story, though, revolved mainly on Domino. Everything always seems to get back to her - like most of the characters are just there to ensure that she'll be the heroine we all expect her to be at the end of the day. Although its a good thing coz it makes the readers' empathy focused on one person only - it made me feel like the rest of the characters lack identity. But maybe coz it has already been established in the first book? See now I really must get my hand on that book.
The ending is a little surprising. I dont know whether Cameron is highlighting some culture's practice or tradition - but the story when the husband must leave and wander in the wild while the wife raise their child on her own - it sounds a little too stereotyped for me. I strongly believe that when a couple gets married, its either they wander together exploring the world - or they settle down and raise a family. That's why its called tying the knot, right? Oh ignore me - just another attack of the romantic side of me. Haha. Nonetheless, I do like the ending. It leaves me with something to hope for for Domino and Adan.
Overall, this has been a very exciting read for me. Its like a non-stop action that'll keep you wanting to turn the pages faster to know what'll happen next. I like Domino's character - a little bad-ass, a little softie - very likable. I like the story, very unique with its highly interesting magic system. And the plot is anything but boring! This, indeed, is another urban fantasy book that I would highly recommend.
July 26, 2011
Sequels are often quite telling--will the author recycle what he established in the first book, or will he delve into his world, expanding and elucidating, striving to do something more than a rehash of what has gone on before?
Cameron Haley seems bent on the latter. Kinda.
His sophomore novel is certainly more than a rehash of his debut novel. Domino Riley is now the acting boss/war captain of her gang, as her boss has decided to "retire". And as is usual for a person new to their position, the shit hits the fan and gives her quite the test.
It seems that the zombie apocalypse has hit, though for some reason it seems centered and confined to LA. Domino must find the source of the zombie hoard and do something about it. Of course, there is much more to the story than that and Domino has very little time to sort it all out before LA is a lost cause.
Add to that her confusion and attraction towards Adan, newly returned after she eliminated his doppelganger in the first novel, Honey and Jack setting up shop in her home, and problems with other gangs. Domino has her hands full to say the least.
As she begins to deal with all her troubles, the battles and fights ramp up in violence, power, and sheer bad-ass spectacle. Which brings me to my main quibble with the second novel. Haley has ramped up the action and power so much and so quickly, that I can easily see Domino coming off as way too powerful and unbelievable a sorcerer. In fact, the way she handles her problems and the way Haley describes them reminds me a lot of the Dresden novels. The only problem is it took Harry Dresden many novels to reach the power levels he is now at, and Domino is there by book two.
But those are hurdles for the future, and I hope that Haley is capable enough to overcome them. I quite liked Skeleton Crew and look forward to the next in the series.
Cameron Haley seems bent on the latter. Kinda.
His sophomore novel is certainly more than a rehash of his debut novel. Domino Riley is now the acting boss/war captain of her gang, as her boss has decided to "retire". And as is usual for a person new to their position, the shit hits the fan and gives her quite the test.
It seems that the zombie apocalypse has hit, though for some reason it seems centered and confined to LA. Domino must find the source of the zombie hoard and do something about it. Of course, there is much more to the story than that and Domino has very little time to sort it all out before LA is a lost cause.
Add to that her confusion and attraction towards Adan, newly returned after she eliminated his doppelganger in the first novel, Honey and Jack setting up shop in her home, and problems with other gangs. Domino has her hands full to say the least.
As she begins to deal with all her troubles, the battles and fights ramp up in violence, power, and sheer bad-ass spectacle. Which brings me to my main quibble with the second novel. Haley has ramped up the action and power so much and so quickly, that I can easily see Domino coming off as way too powerful and unbelievable a sorcerer. In fact, the way she handles her problems and the way Haley describes them reminds me a lot of the Dresden novels. The only problem is it took Harry Dresden many novels to reach the power levels he is now at, and Domino is there by book two.
But those are hurdles for the future, and I hope that Haley is capable enough to overcome them. I quite liked Skeleton Crew and look forward to the next in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2011
This is the second book of the Domino Riley series by Cameron Haley. While it is a stand-alone novel, you’ll get more enjoyment and have less confusion if you read the first book before tackling this one.
Ms. Haley’s writing style is engaging and easy to read. The action kept the story moving, although at times it felt like a little too much. A breather here and there for the reader (and her characters) would have been appreciated.
The book is written in first person in Domino Riley’s point of view. I personally like first person in an urban fantasy novel, so this helped to draw me in right away. Though I hadn’t read the first book, I was able to follow the storyline. I had trouble following some of the worldbuilding rules that weren’t really explained. I’m sure they were explained in the first book, so again, I’d advise reading it before this one.
I have to say that Ms. Haley did a great job with her description. I felt as though I could see what was being described and there were definitely times that wasn’t a bonus. :)
All in all, an enjoyable, fast-paced, edge of your seat thrill ride through the streets of L.A. that kept me turning the pages.
Ms. Haley’s writing style is engaging and easy to read. The action kept the story moving, although at times it felt like a little too much. A breather here and there for the reader (and her characters) would have been appreciated.
The book is written in first person in Domino Riley’s point of view. I personally like first person in an urban fantasy novel, so this helped to draw me in right away. Though I hadn’t read the first book, I was able to follow the storyline. I had trouble following some of the worldbuilding rules that weren’t really explained. I’m sure they were explained in the first book, so again, I’d advise reading it before this one.
I have to say that Ms. Haley did a great job with her description. I felt as though I could see what was being described and there were definitely times that wasn’t a bonus. :)
All in all, an enjoyable, fast-paced, edge of your seat thrill ride through the streets of L.A. that kept me turning the pages.
May 12, 2012
Review: “Skeleton Crew” is a rip-roaring, uproarious, non-stop monster/zombie/underworld/between-world/magic story that never ever takes a break, barely stops to breathe. Sequel to the popular “Mob Rules,” “Skeleton Crew” is set in a magical Los Angeles where all that glitters may actually be faery glamour, where witches can be sorcerers (as is our protagonist), not just Wiccan-and where nobody is really surprised if dead gangstas reanimate. Well, not too surprised, and not too happy either. Domino is a “mobbed-up” witch who literally takes no prisoners as war as war chief of an important L.A. area gangster. It’s trite now to speak of a “Kick-***” heroine, but Domino gives a new meaning to the term: on the mortal plane, in the Underworld/underworld (dead and mob), and in the “Between.” Even ghostly ghost-hunters know her name and reputation.
Readers who like their urban fantasy gritty, graphic, violent, and paranormal will flock to this one. Caution: the profanity is excessive-in keeping with the characters-but might be offensive to some readers. The violence is graphic, albeit “magical.”
January 22, 2013
I enjoyed this book a lot more than I did the first, which is good because the first one was a bit of a chore to get through. Skeleton Crew was, for some reason, much easier for me to digest. I do think this is because a good portion of the world building was pushed out the way by the first book, freeing up the author a bit to be able to play more in the universe that he created.
It's still a fairly messy book though. Domino is thrown into a lot of crazy situations and she just sort of rolls with it. Adan is... well. I don't quite understand how everyone is so accepting of him, and it would have been nice to see the author spend more time about Adan's reintegration with the world. As it is, I spent a good deal of time puzzled over the fact that Adan is given a high rank position when he essentially doesn't even know his father or the outfit.
What I do enjoy is that some ideas in the book are interesting. Nothing too earth shattering, but the author does do things just a tiny bit different. The zombies, for example, were kind of a messy execution as a whole (ha, kind of punny), but the concept was fun. 3 stars.
It's still a fairly messy book though. Domino is thrown into a lot of crazy situations and she just sort of rolls with it. Adan is... well. I don't quite understand how everyone is so accepting of him, and it would have been nice to see the author spend more time about Adan's reintegration with the world. As it is, I spent a good deal of time puzzled over the fact that Adan is given a high rank position when he essentially doesn't even know his father or the outfit.
What I do enjoy is that some ideas in the book are interesting. Nothing too earth shattering, but the author does do things just a tiny bit different. The zombies, for example, were kind of a messy execution as a whole (ha, kind of punny), but the concept was fun. 3 stars.
June 22, 2011
reviewed by http://urbanfantasyinvestigations.blo...
I was much happier with the pacing in SKELETON CREW. Things happened quicker and the slow parts were few and far apart. Domino is her kick butt, snarky, smart ass self. She continues to see what her juice can do to protect her and the things she feels need protecting. Her allies and friends are at her back as they fight to figure out why everyone who dies turns into zombies. Some friends and allies are lost. There is tons of action spaced throughout the book. The romance is very slim so dont expect much in that department if that is what your looking for. The imagination and creativity is just as high in book 2 as it was in MOB RULES. There is plenty of zombie action for all you zombie lovers. The ending event made me sad :( I was really hoping something would come of the situation. Hopefully its not the end of that character and Cameron is just tricking us. Im glad I won a copy of Skeleton Crew or I wouldn't have found this series. I'm going to continue with Domino's story.
I was much happier with the pacing in SKELETON CREW. Things happened quicker and the slow parts were few and far apart. Domino is her kick butt, snarky, smart ass self. She continues to see what her juice can do to protect her and the things she feels need protecting. Her allies and friends are at her back as they fight to figure out why everyone who dies turns into zombies. Some friends and allies are lost. There is tons of action spaced throughout the book. The romance is very slim so dont expect much in that department if that is what your looking for. The imagination and creativity is just as high in book 2 as it was in MOB RULES. There is plenty of zombie action for all you zombie lovers. The ending event made me sad :( I was really hoping something would come of the situation. Hopefully its not the end of that character and Cameron is just tricking us. Im glad I won a copy of Skeleton Crew or I wouldn't have found this series. I'm going to continue with Domino's story.
August 1, 2012
I have been notified that I won this book. Since it is the second in a series I ordered the first one which should be in today. Can't wait to read it. Will update this when I am through reading both books. I just love getting free books to read.
Skeleton Crew is a dark action packed story about Zombies in L.A. and it's up to Domino Riley to stop them. This is the second book in the series and if you haven't read the first one then let me tell you that magic is pulled from the streets, and you have the in between world where fairies, ghosts and demons rule. Domino Riley is a street smart, butt kicking girl who knows she's in trouble when zombies show up and start reproducing. It's up to her and her gang to find out who is behind it and to stop it. Her only real distraction is Adan, her boss's son.
I really enjoyed the first book and I believe the second one is even better. It is a must read.
Skeleton Crew is a dark action packed story about Zombies in L.A. and it's up to Domino Riley to stop them. This is the second book in the series and if you haven't read the first one then let me tell you that magic is pulled from the streets, and you have the in between world where fairies, ghosts and demons rule. Domino Riley is a street smart, butt kicking girl who knows she's in trouble when zombies show up and start reproducing. It's up to her and her gang to find out who is behind it and to stop it. Her only real distraction is Adan, her boss's son.
I really enjoyed the first book and I believe the second one is even better. It is a must read.
July 8, 2011
Whew - there was a ton of action in this one. Also lots of time in Between (ghostly limbo/alternate LA). There's zombies, but done differently than the current plague scenario that you usually see.
Fae, Formorii, sorcerers, the mob, government spooks, demons - there are a lot of characters at play, but I wasn't overwhelmed by having too many new faces to remember.
A little romance (and the ending had me going for a bit), but I thought it was done well.
We get to see a bit of Domino's vulnerability, but she still kicks tremendous amounts of ass.
Haley has made lots of changes to his magical LA. It will be very interesting to see where this series goes next.
Fae, Formorii, sorcerers, the mob, government spooks, demons - there are a lot of characters at play, but I wasn't overwhelmed by having too many new faces to remember.
A little romance (and the ending had me going for a bit), but I thought it was done well.
We get to see a bit of Domino's vulnerability, but she still kicks tremendous amounts of ass.
Haley has made lots of changes to his magical LA. It will be very interesting to see where this series goes next.
November 19, 2011
Book two of the underworld cycle. After reading book one where Domino Riley a sorcerer is in search of her deceased best friend. Finding out he was killed she uses her "juice" to seek revenge. Her home town Compton, L.A. and the graffiti left by taggers from her outfit gives her the power for her magic.
Now in book two Domino wakes up each Morning and finding more and more zombies appearing in her neighborhood. Magic does not work so well on zombies so she channels into the underworld once again to get rid of the brain craving pest. Both books are packed with dialogue straight from the streets of Compton, magic & Action. The fight scenes alone gets 3 stars. I hope the series continues on.
Now in book two Domino wakes up each Morning and finding more and more zombies appearing in her neighborhood. Magic does not work so well on zombies so she channels into the underworld once again to get rid of the brain craving pest. Both books are packed with dialogue straight from the streets of Compton, magic & Action. The fight scenes alone gets 3 stars. I hope the series continues on.
October 22, 2013
The continuing adventures of our heroine. My library didn't have this in physical form, so I was forced to read it electronically. I'm trying not to hold that against the book, but it's a little tough. (I tried this on my smartphone, since i didn't like the time I did it on the ipad. I still didn't like it. Apparently that medium is not for me. Paper, please!)
Anyway. More interesting things, with a nice Mexican spin. There were more fairies, some more with the love interest (but none of it distracting from the main story line, thankfully), and now zombies. But not in a bad way (and I have been reading Mira Grant's zombie series, so it was an interesting contrast).
Anyway. More interesting things, with a nice Mexican spin. There were more fairies, some more with the love interest (but none of it distracting from the main story line, thankfully), and now zombies. But not in a bad way (and I have been reading Mira Grant's zombie series, so it was an interesting contrast).
October 16, 2012
This is a B- read
I liked Haley's take on the zombie apocalypse and this is the first book in a while that makes sensible and funny use of modern social media e.g. zombies who flash mob organise using twitter. This book also builds on and escalates the collision between the emergence of magic and parallel worlds bleeding people and bad guys into our world revealed in Mob Rules. The world building and humour are smart and seamlessly used to make things happen.
Domino is Hispanic/Irish and her culture and identity as a Los Angelean are strong and part of the story as it unfolds.
I liked Haley's take on the zombie apocalypse and this is the first book in a while that makes sensible and funny use of modern social media e.g. zombies who flash mob organise using twitter. This book also builds on and escalates the collision between the emergence of magic and parallel worlds bleeding people and bad guys into our world revealed in Mob Rules. The world building and humour are smart and seamlessly used to make things happen.
Domino is Hispanic/Irish and her culture and identity as a Los Angelean are strong and part of the story as it unfolds.
Read
March 11, 2017series: Underworld Cycle #2
"The second book in the Underworld Cycle is even better than the first. Once again, Haley mixes one tough heroine, multidimensional allies, worthy adversaries and enough action and humor to make this one hell of a page-turner. Fans of feisty, snarky female protagonists will absolutely love this book." RT Book Review rated 4 1/2 stars
"The second book in the Underworld Cycle is even better than the first. Once again, Haley mixes one tough heroine, multidimensional allies, worthy adversaries and enough action and humor to make this one hell of a page-turner. Fans of feisty, snarky female protagonists will absolutely love this book." RT Book Review rated 4 1/2 stars
June 14, 2012
I really do like the world building Haley has done here. The way magic and gangsters are so cleverly interwoven has such a huge influence on my enjoyment of this series. That isn't to say that the characters and the writing aren't enjoyable, its just that I love finding a contemporary fantasy series set in an original imagining of the world.
February 6, 2012
This is book 2 in the Underworld Cycle. As if being the war chief and a sorcerer in the strongest outfit in L.A. was not enough, now Domino has to deal with the threat of a zombie apocalypse. Cameron Haley continues to develop and interesting take on the Urban Fantasy genre. Fans should start with book 1 Mob Rules though to fully understand what is going on.
July 23, 2011
This second book in the Underworld Cycle series is a hit. A fascinating world, strong characters, fast-paced, well-written...you can't get much better than that. Looking forward to the next installment.
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May 13, 2011
Pretty good - interesting heroine. She seems so good, it's easy to forget she's actually in a mob/gang. But I love her brand of magic - will definitely be needing to check out the first book in this series. Will be reviewed on Romance Reviews Today on or around 5/20/11.
June 17, 2011
A good, urban fantasy in the tradition of Kim Harrison and Laurell K. Hamilton. A stand-alone title, even though this is part of a series - you won't be too lost if you don't read the first one. Lots of zombies, demons, fairies, and creatures - really liked it.
March 10, 2014
Love, love looove Adan, Jack and Anton! My favorite book of the series so far.
And despite the fact that Adan went, I kind of understood why he did it. He needs to find his place. He's always been an outsider.
Looking forward to reading "Dead Drop"
And despite the fact that Adan went, I kind of understood why he did it. He needs to find his place. He's always been an outsider.
Looking forward to reading "Dead Drop"
May 13, 2011
3½ Stars
November 19, 2011
Very enjoyable. Different approach to mix LA gangs with magic. A definite twist on the usual urban fantasy.
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