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Fairy True #1
Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies
You know there’s trouble ahead when zombies aren’t your biggest worry.
The treasure hunter… Veronica Kwon is determined to be the only person in control of her destiny. After surviving a broken engagement and turning her back on her wealthy manipulative father, she’s started a treasure hunting company and is ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
The ex-fiance… Jax Taylor is a Southern charmer with enough sex appeal to melt the polar ice caps. He disappeared three months before their wedding and swore he’d never cross paths with Veronica again.
The magic beanstalk… Brought together again by their dying mentor, who has found three enchanted beans, Veronica and Jax agree to an uneasy partnership. Together they’ll climb a magic beanstalk to the cloud kingdom, but will their destiny be the riches they so desire, the passion they thought dead…or will the undead get them first?
The treasure hunter… Veronica Kwon is determined to be the only person in control of her destiny. After surviving a broken engagement and turning her back on her wealthy manipulative father, she’s started a treasure hunting company and is ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
The ex-fiance… Jax Taylor is a Southern charmer with enough sex appeal to melt the polar ice caps. He disappeared three months before their wedding and swore he’d never cross paths with Veronica again.
The magic beanstalk… Brought together again by their dying mentor, who has found three enchanted beans, Veronica and Jax agree to an uneasy partnership. Together they’ll climb a magic beanstalk to the cloud kingdom, but will their destiny be the riches they so desire, the passion they thought dead…or will the undead get them first?
105 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 8, 2014
9 people are currently reading
338 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
April 7, 2017
Read for Fun (Kindle)
Overall Rating: 4.00
Story Rating: 4.00
Character Rating: 4.00
First Thought when Finished: Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies by Avery Flynn was a unique joyride that had action, adventure, romance, humor, snark, and a mix of fairy tales/Indiana Jones (or maybe Tomb Raider--still deciding on that). I HAD FUN!
PLUS: Giggling Evil Zombies--trust me it worked!
Part of my Read It, Rate It, File It, Done Reviews
Overall Rating: 4.00
Story Rating: 4.00
Character Rating: 4.00
First Thought when Finished: Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies by Avery Flynn was a unique joyride that had action, adventure, romance, humor, snark, and a mix of fairy tales/Indiana Jones (or maybe Tomb Raider--still deciding on that). I HAD FUN!
PLUS: Giggling Evil Zombies--trust me it worked!
Part of my Read It, Rate It, File It, Done Reviews
June 29, 2020
After reading my first Avery Flynn book, I became addicted. I knew I needed to go and read the author’s other work, and when I stumbled upon the Fairy True short stories, I knew I needed to give them a read. They’re something different to the author’s norm, but I love a good twist to well-known stories.
Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies was a quick read, one I devoured in no time. It hooked me right away, and I was happy to see how it all came together. It took the known, added a unique twist, and ensured I was addicted. Although it was an addictive and unique read, I do wish there had been more to it. It was fun, but I would have liked to see more of certain things.
All in all, a fun little read. As addictive as it was, it didn’t quite live up to the full potential. I certainly recommend it to Avery Flynn fans looking for something a little different, though.
Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies was a quick read, one I devoured in no time. It hooked me right away, and I was happy to see how it all came together. It took the known, added a unique twist, and ensured I was addicted. Although it was an addictive and unique read, I do wish there had been more to it. It was fun, but I would have liked to see more of certain things.
All in all, a fun little read. As addictive as it was, it didn’t quite live up to the full potential. I certainly recommend it to Avery Flynn fans looking for something a little different, though.
June 22, 2013
Not your average fairy tale.
This book grabbed me from the opening page, when the heroine quips about karma running her down and reversing for a second shot.
When Veronica Kwon is summoned by her mentor Antoine, she never thought she would literally run into her ex-fiancé Jax Taylor. All six feet of deliciousness.
Antoine has procured 3 magic beans and needs both of them to help grow the beanstalk that leads to a golden goose, a magical harp and untold riches.
What ensues is a fun adventure, that will have you chuckling, yelling at your book and melting with the sparks that fly between Veronica and Jax.
But when things don't go quite as expected and the passion flares between them, will love help save them or will old wounds prevail ?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, which I am fervently hoping isn't the only one in the Fairy True series. Flynn could enthral us with many a re-telling of fairy tales no doubt.
Watch out for the antics of the goose, who steals the scenes she's in.
This book grabbed me from the opening page, when the heroine quips about karma running her down and reversing for a second shot.
When Veronica Kwon is summoned by her mentor Antoine, she never thought she would literally run into her ex-fiancé Jax Taylor. All six feet of deliciousness.
Antoine has procured 3 magic beans and needs both of them to help grow the beanstalk that leads to a golden goose, a magical harp and untold riches.
What ensues is a fun adventure, that will have you chuckling, yelling at your book and melting with the sparks that fly between Veronica and Jax.
But when things don't go quite as expected and the passion flares between them, will love help save them or will old wounds prevail ?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, which I am fervently hoping isn't the only one in the Fairy True series. Flynn could enthral us with many a re-telling of fairy tales no doubt.
Watch out for the antics of the goose, who steals the scenes she's in.
June 23, 2013
Definitely, a fun read and I generally don’t read and enjoy Zombie novels, but did enjoy this one.
I’ve been Jaxified.
Jax and a former heiress whose been disowned by her controlling father, because she managed to stand up to him (and daddy, didn’t like that one bit). She was also his former fiancée(but that’s a story in itself).
An associate named Antoine, who deals in mystical artifacts, manages to coerce them into going on a journey after magical beans that can create a very large bean stalk were found.Once up the beanstalk they are accosted by the Zombies.
Antoine was looking for a golden goose and a harp, so they had to make the trip twice against their better judgment. Jax and Veronica think Antoine a little nuts, (well, Veronica does love him just the same) and will help him with his crazy idea and boy do they get an adventure.
A highly entertaining read and one you won’t soon forget.
I’ve been Jaxified.
Jax and a former heiress whose been disowned by her controlling father, because she managed to stand up to him (and daddy, didn’t like that one bit). She was also his former fiancée(but that’s a story in itself).
An associate named Antoine, who deals in mystical artifacts, manages to coerce them into going on a journey after magical beans that can create a very large bean stalk were found.Once up the beanstalk they are accosted by the Zombies.
Antoine was looking for a golden goose and a harp, so they had to make the trip twice against their better judgment. Jax and Veronica think Antoine a little nuts, (well, Veronica does love him just the same) and will help him with his crazy idea and boy do they get an adventure.
A highly entertaining read and one you won’t soon forget.
February 10, 2014
I loved this book. Avery Flynn does an amazing job of grabbing your attention and holding on to it. From the first sentence I was compelled to keep turning the pages to see what would happen to Veronica and Jax. Flynn has taken a much beloved fairy tale and turned it into a story that every woman can love.Veronica is a kick-butt treasure hunter and Jax, her ex-fiance is swoon-worthy. Their adventure might start at the base of the magical beanstalk, but their journey takes them farther than either could have imagined. My only complaint about this excellent summer read is that it wasn't long enough. I will dare to dream that there are more Fairy True books to come.
June 23, 2013
This book is a fresh, modern take on a fairytale with the delicious twist of zombies. I love Avery Flynn's sassy.smart dialogue and the chemistry between Jax and Veronica is sizzling.
and did I mention it has zombies? Pure awesome!
and did I mention it has zombies? Pure awesome!
June 24, 2013
GENRE: Urban Fantasy
THEME: Zombies, Romance, and Mature
RECEIVED: Author
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
This was my first introduction to Avery Flynn’s writing and storytelling; I’m a new fan and will definitely be checking out her Layton Series. This was a quick read being only 81 pages but it was a heck of an adventure, with scary moments and chemistry between the two leads that sizzled.
Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies follows treasure hunter Veronica Kwon on her latest hunt. Being summoned by her mentor she is faced with a new adventure but also her past. Her ex Jax has also been asked along for the ride and she has to face the pain once again. But this treasure hunt isn’t like all the rest, when three magic beans lead them to a place that they aren’t prepared for.
Veronica is one tough, katana fighting woman and she never forgets when a man breaks her heart. I enjoyed all her spunk, the passion and banter between she and Jax was what made me love it even more. Her treasure hunting business is successful but she would do anything for her mentor, even go into the most dangerous of hunts. The readers will get some insight on her family as well as what really happened between her and Jax. I can’t say too much more without spoiling.
Jax is a man whom the reader will learn more about as they read; he’s a mystery at first. I loved this guy; he isn’t one to shy away, especially from Veronica whom he knows how to push her buttons. I also liked getting a bit of a glimpse into his families side as well. Their chemistry is smoking hot and I so hope there are more adventures to come with these two.
Overall this was short and sweet, the romance and chemistry may be the bigger focus but it’s all about the scary adventure these two go on. Trying to find and treasure, along with a golden goose may seem easy but what’s surrounding the place is the undead, and they are creepy! There are some twists near the end that caught me off guard, so expect a surprise. I can’t wait to read more from Flynn and look forward to her next novel.
THEME: Zombies, Romance, and Mature
RECEIVED: Author
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
This was my first introduction to Avery Flynn’s writing and storytelling; I’m a new fan and will definitely be checking out her Layton Series. This was a quick read being only 81 pages but it was a heck of an adventure, with scary moments and chemistry between the two leads that sizzled.
Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies follows treasure hunter Veronica Kwon on her latest hunt. Being summoned by her mentor she is faced with a new adventure but also her past. Her ex Jax has also been asked along for the ride and she has to face the pain once again. But this treasure hunt isn’t like all the rest, when three magic beans lead them to a place that they aren’t prepared for.
Veronica is one tough, katana fighting woman and she never forgets when a man breaks her heart. I enjoyed all her spunk, the passion and banter between she and Jax was what made me love it even more. Her treasure hunting business is successful but she would do anything for her mentor, even go into the most dangerous of hunts. The readers will get some insight on her family as well as what really happened between her and Jax. I can’t say too much more without spoiling.
Jax is a man whom the reader will learn more about as they read; he’s a mystery at first. I loved this guy; he isn’t one to shy away, especially from Veronica whom he knows how to push her buttons. I also liked getting a bit of a glimpse into his families side as well. Their chemistry is smoking hot and I so hope there are more adventures to come with these two.
Overall this was short and sweet, the romance and chemistry may be the bigger focus but it’s all about the scary adventure these two go on. Trying to find and treasure, along with a golden goose may seem easy but what’s surrounding the place is the undead, and they are creepy! There are some twists near the end that caught me off guard, so expect a surprise. I can’t wait to read more from Flynn and look forward to her next novel.
August 30, 2016
Review originally posted at RabidReads.com.
I met Avery Flynn at RAGT15. She is a very sweet person and super funny. I hadn’t read anything by her, but I had been planning on it since I met her. Then I saw the reviews for this series on The Geeky Book Blogger page. Since Felicia loved these books so much and she I are very similar on our reading. I thought was a great place to start.
This story is very short and sweet at only 81 pages. But it was very fun read. You have Jax and Veronica who were engaged to be married, but Jax called off the wedding three months before the big day. They were both called in to help their old treasure hunting mentor, Antoine, to go on this treasure hunt up the beanstalk.
Now, she goes into the fact that the giants that we’ve all heard about in the stories were wiped out by a spell that they tried to use to make themselves smaller, more average sized. They have no idea if anything is at that top of the beanstalk, but Antoine wants to grab the goose that lays the golden eggs and the golden harp.
Needless to say, they get up into the clouds. They learn that the giants turn into zombies. The thing I found interesting about these zombies, they giggle instead of moan. I think it would be way creepier to listen to a horde of giggling zombies than a horde of moaning zombies.
I won’t go into any details about what else happens. Let me just say, I didn’t expect to see that ending.
This story isn’t a real deep story, but that’s okay. It was fun. It has a second chance romance. Yes, we do learn why Jax called off the wedding. There are several things from stories besides just the beanstalk. There is also magic carpet sex and pixie dust among other things. I’ve already bought the next book in this short series. Lots of fun.
I met Avery Flynn at RAGT15. She is a very sweet person and super funny. I hadn’t read anything by her, but I had been planning on it since I met her. Then I saw the reviews for this series on The Geeky Book Blogger page. Since Felicia loved these books so much and she I are very similar on our reading. I thought was a great place to start.
This story is very short and sweet at only 81 pages. But it was very fun read. You have Jax and Veronica who were engaged to be married, but Jax called off the wedding three months before the big day. They were both called in to help their old treasure hunting mentor, Antoine, to go on this treasure hunt up the beanstalk.
Now, she goes into the fact that the giants that we’ve all heard about in the stories were wiped out by a spell that they tried to use to make themselves smaller, more average sized. They have no idea if anything is at that top of the beanstalk, but Antoine wants to grab the goose that lays the golden eggs and the golden harp.
Needless to say, they get up into the clouds. They learn that the giants turn into zombies. The thing I found interesting about these zombies, they giggle instead of moan. I think it would be way creepier to listen to a horde of giggling zombies than a horde of moaning zombies.
I won’t go into any details about what else happens. Let me just say, I didn’t expect to see that ending.
This story isn’t a real deep story, but that’s okay. It was fun. It has a second chance romance. Yes, we do learn why Jax called off the wedding. There are several things from stories besides just the beanstalk. There is also magic carpet sex and pixie dust among other things. I’ve already bought the next book in this short series. Lots of fun.
July 12, 2013
****CONTENT WARNING: Fans at the ready, please. Graphic sexual content bound to steam up your e-reader!****
Today's review is on Jax & the Beanstalk Zombies by Avery Flynn
I have had the pleasure of reading several books by Flynn. Temptation Creek, Seduction Creek, and Up A Dry Creek. With that being said, when she asked me if I would be interested in looking at this short, I jumped at the chance. True to Flynn's style and flair, Jax & the Beanstalk brings all the sexy without being vulgar or degrading.
Treasure Hunter Victoria Kwon was in the store trying on her bridal gown when her fiance called to break up with her. Yes, I said called. What a major J-E-R-K! Although she was devastated by this turn of events so close to the actual Wedding Day, she was able to not only pull herself up, but she opened her own business and had become quite successful.
Southern, ex-fiance, Jax Taylor is also a Treasure Hunter, and a drop dead, sex on a stick, handsome one at that. He's been trying to juggle his treasure hunting business with taking care of his mother. He only takes jobs that are close to home and refers all the others to Victoria, with one caviat. The customers cannot tell her who the referral came from.
Antoine is not only a dear friend to both Jax and Victoria, he was their mentor as well. Now he's calling in a favor, and it's a favor that could cost the former lovers their lives. That is if they can keep their hands to themselves *wink, wink*.
I love it when an author takes a crack at rewriting a Nursery Rhyme and makes it their own. I like it even better when it comes out good, and Flynn does just that with her rendition of Jack and the Beanstalk.
A great short story! Now can you do one with Cinderella for me?
4.5 of 5 stars
Available at Amazon
Today's review is on Jax & the Beanstalk Zombies by Avery Flynn
I have had the pleasure of reading several books by Flynn. Temptation Creek, Seduction Creek, and Up A Dry Creek. With that being said, when she asked me if I would be interested in looking at this short, I jumped at the chance. True to Flynn's style and flair, Jax & the Beanstalk brings all the sexy without being vulgar or degrading.
Treasure Hunter Victoria Kwon was in the store trying on her bridal gown when her fiance called to break up with her. Yes, I said called. What a major J-E-R-K! Although she was devastated by this turn of events so close to the actual Wedding Day, she was able to not only pull herself up, but she opened her own business and had become quite successful.
Southern, ex-fiance, Jax Taylor is also a Treasure Hunter, and a drop dead, sex on a stick, handsome one at that. He's been trying to juggle his treasure hunting business with taking care of his mother. He only takes jobs that are close to home and refers all the others to Victoria, with one caviat. The customers cannot tell her who the referral came from.
Antoine is not only a dear friend to both Jax and Victoria, he was their mentor as well. Now he's calling in a favor, and it's a favor that could cost the former lovers their lives. That is if they can keep their hands to themselves *wink, wink*.
I love it when an author takes a crack at rewriting a Nursery Rhyme and makes it their own. I like it even better when it comes out good, and Flynn does just that with her rendition of Jack and the Beanstalk.
A great short story! Now can you do one with Cinderella for me?
4.5 of 5 stars
Available at Amazon
July 6, 2013
Review Originally Posted at Reading Until I Fall Asleep
When Avery emailed me and asked if I would be interested in reviewing her newly released book, Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies, I knew I couldn’t pass this up. What first grabbed me was, of course, the title. It’s not often you see a romance novel that include zombies. While I will admit I’m not a huge zombie/horror fan, zombies are all the rage these days and I felt I needed to jump on the band wagon somehow. The second was the description. I’m fascinated with the retelling of fairy tales and couldn’t wait to see how well this plot was executed. And trust me, it works!
The chemistry between the hero and heroine was electric! And I loved Veronica’s strength. Treasure hunter extraordinaire! I always comment on the heroine’s ability to be head strong and take care of herself and Ms. Flynn certainly provides us with a female hero I can approve of! And me being the General Hospital fan that I am, I couldn’t resist the urge to picture Jasper Jax as the hero (even with the southern accent). Well, at least it wasn’t Jerry Jax… *shudders* At first I wasn’t sure how I was going to like his character, having already grown attached to Veronica by the end of the first chapter, but he proved himself.
This book is on the shorter side, being about 80 pages, but it packs a punch. If you are looking for a short read that keeps you hooked from beginning to end with some adventure and romance along the way, please pick up this book! You will NOT be disappointed!
Bebe’s Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ – Up All Night to finish
When Avery emailed me and asked if I would be interested in reviewing her newly released book, Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies, I knew I couldn’t pass this up. What first grabbed me was, of course, the title. It’s not often you see a romance novel that include zombies. While I will admit I’m not a huge zombie/horror fan, zombies are all the rage these days and I felt I needed to jump on the band wagon somehow. The second was the description. I’m fascinated with the retelling of fairy tales and couldn’t wait to see how well this plot was executed. And trust me, it works!
The chemistry between the hero and heroine was electric! And I loved Veronica’s strength. Treasure hunter extraordinaire! I always comment on the heroine’s ability to be head strong and take care of herself and Ms. Flynn certainly provides us with a female hero I can approve of! And me being the General Hospital fan that I am, I couldn’t resist the urge to picture Jasper Jax as the hero (even with the southern accent). Well, at least it wasn’t Jerry Jax… *shudders* At first I wasn’t sure how I was going to like his character, having already grown attached to Veronica by the end of the first chapter, but he proved himself.
This book is on the shorter side, being about 80 pages, but it packs a punch. If you are looking for a short read that keeps you hooked from beginning to end with some adventure and romance along the way, please pick up this book! You will NOT be disappointed!
Bebe’s Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ – Up All Night to finish
July 1, 2013
Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies by Avery Flynn is a wonderful love story that has a treasure hunt involving Lake Erie, three treasure hunters, two gorgeous love interests, lots of sexual I-want-to-feel-it too tension for the reader, steamy sex, humor, magic, untold truths, bits and pieces of fairy tales we grew up with (i.e. the title similar to Jack and the Beanstalk). Now add the reality of how people we hold near and dear to us can use us to get something they want without regard to our welfare and without our knowing it until too late.
I was hooked by the time I finished the first paragraph in Chapter 1. This paragraph introduces the female love interest in the story and it shows her wonderful sense of humor as she describes and wonders how she got talked into this trip and why she agreed to meet her mentor at his store. Then add her literally bumping into her ex-fiance once she is inside the store and from then on the story takes a takes off in a magical way! Take our two love interests and their mentor, add three magic beans, magic spells, a taller than one can imagine bean stalk, Mother Goose and her Golden egg, Zombies, a Golden Harp, more magic including magical weapons, plus true love. Mix it all together and you have a story that makes you laugh, sigh with desire for the love in the story, become upset, then happy and admire how the wonderful fairy tales from our childhoods’ can somehow add adventure, laughs and excitement to an adult love story that made me want to read it all over again! Simply smilingly amazing!
I was hooked by the time I finished the first paragraph in Chapter 1. This paragraph introduces the female love interest in the story and it shows her wonderful sense of humor as she describes and wonders how she got talked into this trip and why she agreed to meet her mentor at his store. Then add her literally bumping into her ex-fiance once she is inside the store and from then on the story takes a takes off in a magical way! Take our two love interests and their mentor, add three magic beans, magic spells, a taller than one can imagine bean stalk, Mother Goose and her Golden egg, Zombies, a Golden Harp, more magic including magical weapons, plus true love. Mix it all together and you have a story that makes you laugh, sigh with desire for the love in the story, become upset, then happy and admire how the wonderful fairy tales from our childhoods’ can somehow add adventure, laughs and excitement to an adult love story that made me want to read it all over again! Simply smilingly amazing!
July 24, 2013
As a kid I loved fairy tales. I still do as a jaded adult. There’s nothing like a good story full of big adventure, nefarious villains and a happy ever after. When romance is thrown in and steamy sex- I’m hooked! Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies by Avery Flynn is amusing, action packed and steamy. My one complaint is I wanted more (quick read alert)! While I’m not the biggest fan of zombies this book made me reconsider that stance.
Jax and Veronica begin this tale both weighed down from their previous relationship baggage. Imagine being asked by the one person you admire (and who’s dying) to work with your ex. Not just any ex, the ex you almost married. Veronica takes one for the team and steps in her big girl shoes to get the job done. Veronica is strong, snarky and intelligent- I love this character and can’t wait to read more of her adventures. Jax is a sexy, Southern gentleman with a quirky sense of humor. You will love seeing things from his perspective.
The one thing I loved about this book is both points of view (Veronica’s and Jax’s) are given. It was great to see how this quest brought out their unresolved feelings for each other. Kudos to Flynn for throwing in witty interchanges between the main characters, I love a story with humor!
Looking for a nimble read, with plenty of adventure, love, and laughs that works? Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies is just what you’ve been looking for.
-Reviewed by Juliette
Jax and Veronica begin this tale both weighed down from their previous relationship baggage. Imagine being asked by the one person you admire (and who’s dying) to work with your ex. Not just any ex, the ex you almost married. Veronica takes one for the team and steps in her big girl shoes to get the job done. Veronica is strong, snarky and intelligent- I love this character and can’t wait to read more of her adventures. Jax is a sexy, Southern gentleman with a quirky sense of humor. You will love seeing things from his perspective.
The one thing I loved about this book is both points of view (Veronica’s and Jax’s) are given. It was great to see how this quest brought out their unresolved feelings for each other. Kudos to Flynn for throwing in witty interchanges between the main characters, I love a story with humor!
Looking for a nimble read, with plenty of adventure, love, and laughs that works? Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies is just what you’ve been looking for.
-Reviewed by Juliette
July 14, 2014
Short but sexy, this novella packs a sizzling punch! A fresh, fun twist on the fairy tale we all know, Flynn puts her signature humor and heat on every page. I read this all in one sitting, and loved every word. Be prepared to steam up your e-reader!
June 24, 2013
What a fantastic read!! Edge of your seat story...Super hot ex-fiancé, crazy mentor and treasure hunter embark on an adventure of hunting down the goose that lays the golden eggs. They had no idea the place was full of zombies.
This story was so much fun!!
This story was so much fun!!
June 24, 2013
Sexy, clever, and fun, Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies grabbed me from the first line. Avery Flynn’s fresh new twist on this classic fairy tale will keep you guessing and leave you begging for more. This is Jack and the Beanstalk smexified, zombified, and all grown up.
May 14, 2018
Recent fan of Avery Flynn and I am enjoying her writing style. The storyline of this book couldn't keep my attention. I am sure there are many readers who will totally enjoy the Fairy True series but I preferred the Sweet Salvation Brewery series.
Currently reading her High-Heeled Wonder (Killer Style #1) and loving it!
Currently reading her High-Heeled Wonder (Killer Style #1) and loving it!
October 25, 2017
Funny
Not sure what I was expecting, but the was a fun and quick read. I'm a little disappointed about the shortness. But these characters were fun and I love the play on the original nursery story. It could use a little more character development. But all in all, I liked it.
Not sure what I was expecting, but the was a fun and quick read. I'm a little disappointed about the shortness. But these characters were fun and I love the play on the original nursery story. It could use a little more character development. But all in all, I liked it.
October 26, 2019
3 stars
* Hero(s) - 3/5
* Heroine(s) - 3/5
* Secondary Characters - 3/5
* Plot - 3/5
* Romance/Steam - 2/5
* Drama/Conflict/Angst - 3/5
* Writing Style - 3/5
* Hero(s) - 3/5
* Heroine(s) - 3/5
* Secondary Characters - 3/5
* Plot - 3/5
* Romance/Steam - 2/5
* Drama/Conflict/Angst - 3/5
* Writing Style - 3/5
August 7, 2013
Adventurous, Sexy Fun
Veronica Kwon doesn't live the most conventional of lives. She walked away from a controlling father and his financial empire to start her own treasure hunting business, searching for those magical and mysterious artifacts of Fairy Tale fame. Her only regret, falling in love with fellow hunter Jax Taylor, the man who broke her heart - and their engagement - three months before the wedding.
She hasn't seen or heard from him since. Or she hadn't, until she strides into her mentor Antoine's shop and runs smack into a gorgeous, chiseled chest that could belong to no other but the bane of her existence.
The last thing Veronica wants to do is work with the man who still makes her pulse pound as much as he makes her blood boil, but she can't turn down Antoine's request, he taught her everything he knew about treasure hunting and was more a father to her than her own. And she certainly can't say no when he tells them he's found the three magic beans necessary to grow a very large beanstalk.
Standing next to the only woman he ever loved is a lesson in endurance and torture, but the reason Jax ended their relationship is just as pertinent today as it was the day he made that fateful call. If the opportunity Antoine presented them was any less spectacular he'd never subject his heart to being so close to Veronica again.
The expedition, however, is a bit more challenging than they had anticipated. Neither Veronica nor Jax had expected the beanstalk to lead them into a cloud country overrun with brain-eating, former-giant zombies. That fact certainly wasn't included in the briefing. Unless they can put their past behind them and work together to get out of the clouds, it may very well become a deadly oversight.
~*~
This original, imaginative story was so much fun! It's relatively short, even for a novella, but Flynn breathed life into these characters and their world in delightfully unique ways and it ended up feeling like a much meatier read than the story length would seem to allow.
I loved Veronica and Jax. What they lacked in depth of character and expansive personal history they more than made up for in vibrant personality. Veronica is a capable, independent, strong woman and Jax is everything hot and sexy in a man. The chemistry between them crackled across the page and electrified their relationship.
Second-chance romances are not a favorite of mine, but when it comes to novellas, especially those with a timeline that encapsulates only a few days, I often like them more than any other trope. The established relationship is just easier to embrace as the story races along towards an HEA. That served this story well, as I was completely on board with who they were as individuals and where their relationship stood within the first few pages of the story, allowing me to focus on the surrounding world and the arc of the plot.
The world-building was particularly well done. Flynn's writing style allowed for the magical elements of the world to be revealed as part and parcel of their character's experiences along their journey, instead of introducing elements, then explaining or defining them around the storyline. It may not have allowed for the most comprehensive world-view, but it added magical, creative color to the characters' immediate surroundings and day-to-day reality. And it did so in a very organic, inclusive fashion that appealed to me.
There were a few flies in the logic ointment in some places when it came to the plot. The plot twist was a doozy, I didn't see that one coming at all, but I was puzzled by Bad Guy's nefarious past deeds. I just couldn't figure out why he hadn't gotten enough the first few times. And how did the zombies survive so long before Bad Guy started feeding them? I also never had a good grasp of the timeline of the characters' history. It left me with some questions.
Still, none of those issues were major detractors. I was well-entertained by the danger, adventure, and steamy romance despite them. Though short, this was an action-packed, magical thrill ride of sexy good times. I couldn't be happier that it's the first in a series. I'd love to visit the Fairy True world again. Once was definitely not enough.
Disclosure: An ARC of this book was provided to me by the author for review. This rating, review, and all included thoughts and comments are my own.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
Veronica Kwon doesn't live the most conventional of lives. She walked away from a controlling father and his financial empire to start her own treasure hunting business, searching for those magical and mysterious artifacts of Fairy Tale fame. Her only regret, falling in love with fellow hunter Jax Taylor, the man who broke her heart - and their engagement - three months before the wedding.
She hasn't seen or heard from him since. Or she hadn't, until she strides into her mentor Antoine's shop and runs smack into a gorgeous, chiseled chest that could belong to no other but the bane of her existence.
The last thing Veronica wants to do is work with the man who still makes her pulse pound as much as he makes her blood boil, but she can't turn down Antoine's request, he taught her everything he knew about treasure hunting and was more a father to her than her own. And she certainly can't say no when he tells them he's found the three magic beans necessary to grow a very large beanstalk.
Standing next to the only woman he ever loved is a lesson in endurance and torture, but the reason Jax ended their relationship is just as pertinent today as it was the day he made that fateful call. If the opportunity Antoine presented them was any less spectacular he'd never subject his heart to being so close to Veronica again.
The expedition, however, is a bit more challenging than they had anticipated. Neither Veronica nor Jax had expected the beanstalk to lead them into a cloud country overrun with brain-eating, former-giant zombies. That fact certainly wasn't included in the briefing. Unless they can put their past behind them and work together to get out of the clouds, it may very well become a deadly oversight.
~*~
This original, imaginative story was so much fun! It's relatively short, even for a novella, but Flynn breathed life into these characters and their world in delightfully unique ways and it ended up feeling like a much meatier read than the story length would seem to allow.
I loved Veronica and Jax. What they lacked in depth of character and expansive personal history they more than made up for in vibrant personality. Veronica is a capable, independent, strong woman and Jax is everything hot and sexy in a man. The chemistry between them crackled across the page and electrified their relationship.
Second-chance romances are not a favorite of mine, but when it comes to novellas, especially those with a timeline that encapsulates only a few days, I often like them more than any other trope. The established relationship is just easier to embrace as the story races along towards an HEA. That served this story well, as I was completely on board with who they were as individuals and where their relationship stood within the first few pages of the story, allowing me to focus on the surrounding world and the arc of the plot.
The world-building was particularly well done. Flynn's writing style allowed for the magical elements of the world to be revealed as part and parcel of their character's experiences along their journey, instead of introducing elements, then explaining or defining them around the storyline. It may not have allowed for the most comprehensive world-view, but it added magical, creative color to the characters' immediate surroundings and day-to-day reality. And it did so in a very organic, inclusive fashion that appealed to me.
There were a few flies in the logic ointment in some places when it came to the plot. The plot twist was a doozy, I didn't see that one coming at all, but I was puzzled by Bad Guy's nefarious past deeds. I just couldn't figure out why he hadn't gotten enough the first few times. And how did the zombies survive so long before Bad Guy started feeding them? I also never had a good grasp of the timeline of the characters' history. It left me with some questions.
Still, none of those issues were major detractors. I was well-entertained by the danger, adventure, and steamy romance despite them. Though short, this was an action-packed, magical thrill ride of sexy good times. I couldn't be happier that it's the first in a series. I'd love to visit the Fairy True world again. Once was definitely not enough.
Disclosure: An ARC of this book was provided to me by the author for review. This rating, review, and all included thoughts and comments are my own.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
July 26, 2013
Wow…what a unique twist on a fairy tale every one of us already knows! As children we all read or had read to us, Jack and The Beanstalk. Poor Jack foolishly sells his cow for some magic beans and ends up with a beanstalk he climbs into the sky and finds riches….but what if that magical world were filled with zombies instead of giants? That’s where Avery Flynn comes in and weaves a tale that the child in you and the adult can both love!
Jax and Veronica have an undeniably steamy past, but after a messy breakup Veronica wants nothing to do with him, least of all a job. At the urging of a close friend she decides she can handle working with him in the short term. If he can remain professional she surely can too. That doesn’t mean she has to like it, or talk to him or even look his direction. A magical spell and three beans lands them in a world that’s supposed to be deserted. But something has survived. Something that decides they look exactly like dinner.
He knows he screwed up the best thing that ever happened to him. This job is just what Jax needs to make Veronica his for good this time. With danger and deception at every turn and zombies hot on their tail Jax will have to prove how much he cares for Veronica and not die trying.
I really enjoyed this one! I have a soft spot for fairy tale themed books and this one hit the spot quite nicely! I loved the elaborate back story in which the giants had come to our world seeking a cure for their size. Instead they were turned into zombies and locked in their realm for eternity. Very creeptastic and totally original. Flynn is a genius to combine two things that seems to be taking over not only the reading world, but tv as well….fairy tales and zombies.
I liked how determined Jax was in showing Veronica how much she meant to him. It was a difficult job because he had hurt her so badly and at times I wanted him to get on with it and tell her his side of the story…but he bides his time, wins her trust and ultimately shows he how much he’s willing to sacrifice for her.
There is plenty of action from beginning to end along with some well placed humor and sexy times. Jax and Veronica have a past at the beginning of the book and Flynn does a good job portraying the feelings and making the reader understand the emotions these characters are having. It flowed nicely and though short, the story felt complete and the characters well rounded. The heat level is average and with the length it’s more verbal foreplay then actual sex so a wide range of romance lovers should enjoy it.
I would have liked to stay in the world a bit longer, learn a bit more of the lore, but it looks like we might get more of this type of urban fantasy/paranormal romance/fairytale-ness and I eagerly look forward to it!
I give Jax and The Beanstalk by Avery Flynn 4 stars!
Jax and Veronica have an undeniably steamy past, but after a messy breakup Veronica wants nothing to do with him, least of all a job. At the urging of a close friend she decides she can handle working with him in the short term. If he can remain professional she surely can too. That doesn’t mean she has to like it, or talk to him or even look his direction. A magical spell and three beans lands them in a world that’s supposed to be deserted. But something has survived. Something that decides they look exactly like dinner.
He knows he screwed up the best thing that ever happened to him. This job is just what Jax needs to make Veronica his for good this time. With danger and deception at every turn and zombies hot on their tail Jax will have to prove how much he cares for Veronica and not die trying.
I really enjoyed this one! I have a soft spot for fairy tale themed books and this one hit the spot quite nicely! I loved the elaborate back story in which the giants had come to our world seeking a cure for their size. Instead they were turned into zombies and locked in their realm for eternity. Very creeptastic and totally original. Flynn is a genius to combine two things that seems to be taking over not only the reading world, but tv as well….fairy tales and zombies.
I liked how determined Jax was in showing Veronica how much she meant to him. It was a difficult job because he had hurt her so badly and at times I wanted him to get on with it and tell her his side of the story…but he bides his time, wins her trust and ultimately shows he how much he’s willing to sacrifice for her.
There is plenty of action from beginning to end along with some well placed humor and sexy times. Jax and Veronica have a past at the beginning of the book and Flynn does a good job portraying the feelings and making the reader understand the emotions these characters are having. It flowed nicely and though short, the story felt complete and the characters well rounded. The heat level is average and with the length it’s more verbal foreplay then actual sex so a wide range of romance lovers should enjoy it.
I would have liked to stay in the world a bit longer, learn a bit more of the lore, but it looks like we might get more of this type of urban fantasy/paranormal romance/fairytale-ness and I eagerly look forward to it!
I give Jax and The Beanstalk by Avery Flynn 4 stars!
July 29, 2013
With Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies, author Avery Flynn takes a much-loved fairy tale out for a spicy, supernatural spin. The result? A story that's not only clever and creative, but flat out FUN. Smokin', too, 'cause Flynn always delivers on the sexy.
Veronica and Jax are headstrong and adventurous, two kick-butt characters with a lot of heart — and a kingdom-size blunder between them. But because they share an affinity for treasure-hunting and an ardent loyalty to an old man, neither can say no to one last mission together. Only, that other thing they have in common? That uncontrollable, uncontainable, happy ever after kind of passion. That means they can't keep their hands off each other (and it's also where a multipurpose magic carpet comes in).
She looked like the Korean-American Batgirl, and he wanted to do many bad things just so she'd give chase.
But when Jax finally admits to Veronica why he ended their engagement, she's less than impressed. He's barely begun to deal with her fury when his revelation is upstaged by a secret more unsettling than a gaggle of giggling zombies. (Luckily for me, Flynn's version of the undead involves little gore.) These tense and suspenseful moments are interspersed with the occasional poignancy, as well as amusing references to other popular tales of make-believe. Oh, the humor! It's droll and delightful. Just check out the story's very first line:
Karma hadn't just caught up with Veronica Kwon. It had gotten behind the wheel of a massive SUV, mowed her down, paused for half a breath then slid into reverse and run her over again.
And here's another of my favorite lines, just because it's too good not to share:
Witches with bone houses and angry, non-union dwarves had staked out a claim in these woods.
Once upon a time, Flynn wrote her very first Fairy True story and christened it Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies. And the kingdom rejoiced, because it was a quick, quirky, lusty read. Huzzah!
Veronica and Jax are headstrong and adventurous, two kick-butt characters with a lot of heart — and a kingdom-size blunder between them. But because they share an affinity for treasure-hunting and an ardent loyalty to an old man, neither can say no to one last mission together. Only, that other thing they have in common? That uncontrollable, uncontainable, happy ever after kind of passion. That means they can't keep their hands off each other (and it's also where a multipurpose magic carpet comes in).
She looked like the Korean-American Batgirl, and he wanted to do many bad things just so she'd give chase.
But when Jax finally admits to Veronica why he ended their engagement, she's less than impressed. He's barely begun to deal with her fury when his revelation is upstaged by a secret more unsettling than a gaggle of giggling zombies. (Luckily for me, Flynn's version of the undead involves little gore.) These tense and suspenseful moments are interspersed with the occasional poignancy, as well as amusing references to other popular tales of make-believe. Oh, the humor! It's droll and delightful. Just check out the story's very first line:
Karma hadn't just caught up with Veronica Kwon. It had gotten behind the wheel of a massive SUV, mowed her down, paused for half a breath then slid into reverse and run her over again.
And here's another of my favorite lines, just because it's too good not to share:
Witches with bone houses and angry, non-union dwarves had staked out a claim in these woods.
Once upon a time, Flynn wrote her very first Fairy True story and christened it Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies. And the kingdom rejoiced, because it was a quick, quirky, lusty read. Huzzah!
January 5, 2016
Jax and the Beanstalk Zombies reunites a couple who had previously been engaged. After Jax walks out of Veronica's life three months before they were to be marries, she rebuilds it her way. This means no longer putting up with the demands of a manipulating father. Starting her own treasure hunting company is her way of proving that only she is in control - no one else.
When Veronica encounters Jax while meeting with her dying mentor who presents an opportunity of a lifetime, she has to push her resentment of the broken engagement behind her. Jax and Veronica will climb the magic beanstalk togther, come hell or high water and.....come face-to-face with zombies. It's up to Veronica and Jax to fight their way through the land of the undead, find whatever treasure there is to be found, and escape with their brains and hearts intact.
Avery Flynn is one of my favorite authors and she did a great job reinventing the Jack in the Beanstalk fairy tale. She added different elements to the novella that left a familiar undertone to the book yet spiced it up to a whole new "Not your children's fairy tale" level. The quick and easy read is full of steam, humor, and adventure. The story is an engaging and entertaining quick read that will keep you interested all while speeding up your pulse.
Review copy provided by the author an embarrassingly long time ago, at no cost, for an honest review.
When Veronica encounters Jax while meeting with her dying mentor who presents an opportunity of a lifetime, she has to push her resentment of the broken engagement behind her. Jax and Veronica will climb the magic beanstalk togther, come hell or high water and.....come face-to-face with zombies. It's up to Veronica and Jax to fight their way through the land of the undead, find whatever treasure there is to be found, and escape with their brains and hearts intact.
Avery Flynn is one of my favorite authors and she did a great job reinventing the Jack in the Beanstalk fairy tale. She added different elements to the novella that left a familiar undertone to the book yet spiced it up to a whole new "Not your children's fairy tale" level. The quick and easy read is full of steam, humor, and adventure. The story is an engaging and entertaining quick read that will keep you interested all while speeding up your pulse.
Review copy provided by the author an embarrassingly long time ago, at no cost, for an honest review.
August 27, 2013
I've enjoyed fairy tales since I was a child and I still enjoy a good fairy tale. This is the 1st book I've read by Avery Flynn and it certainly won't be the last!
Avery has taken a favorite fairy tale from my youth, enriched it with a fistful of fairy dust, kickass characters, sexual tension galore and, LOL, added a zombies twist which doesn't seem ludicrous whatsoever and made the story even more magical.
Veronica was left at the alter by Jax and they haven't seen each other until their mentor summons them individually to help him complete his final quest involving 3 small beans in a jar.
Their respective treasure-hunting skills will certainly come in handy at the top of the beanstalk...
I LOVED this story... reading it in one day! No way was I going to sleep w/o finishing this book! I highly recommend this story to lovers of fun paranormal romances with sexy and adventurous characters... 5 STARS!!!!! I'm hoping there's a follow-up story to this!
Avery has taken a favorite fairy tale from my youth, enriched it with a fistful of fairy dust, kickass characters, sexual tension galore and, LOL, added a zombies twist which doesn't seem ludicrous whatsoever and made the story even more magical.
Veronica was left at the alter by Jax and they haven't seen each other until their mentor summons them individually to help him complete his final quest involving 3 small beans in a jar.
Their respective treasure-hunting skills will certainly come in handy at the top of the beanstalk...
I LOVED this story... reading it in one day! No way was I going to sleep w/o finishing this book! I highly recommend this story to lovers of fun paranormal romances with sexy and adventurous characters... 5 STARS!!!!! I'm hoping there's a follow-up story to this!
July 11, 2015
I am so not a zombie fan. It is not my usual read. But I had heard a lot about this book and decided to take a chance. So glad I did!
I really enjoyed my escape to this fantasy world. This book had so much packed into it - action, adventure, twists, and heat. It was just plain fun!!
Even though I was outside my usual genre, I was drawn in from the beginning and had to see what happened next. There were a couple of surprises. I love a book that can surprise me! I really liked all of the characters. I enjoyed the fantasy elements mixed with the thriller elements. It's kind of like Laura Croft and Indiana Jones meet in a fairy tale and encounter the Living Dead.
It's definitely a fun adventure you don't want to miss!!
I really enjoyed my escape to this fantasy world. This book had so much packed into it - action, adventure, twists, and heat. It was just plain fun!!
Even though I was outside my usual genre, I was drawn in from the beginning and had to see what happened next. There were a couple of surprises. I love a book that can surprise me! I really liked all of the characters. I enjoyed the fantasy elements mixed with the thriller elements. It's kind of like Laura Croft and Indiana Jones meet in a fairy tale and encounter the Living Dead.
It's definitely a fun adventure you don't want to miss!!
November 1, 2014
This was a rather complete story packed into 100 pages with lots of little twists plus fun on a magic carpet. I enjoyed the writing and would definitely read something else by the author.
It's not really important to the story but I liked that Veronica is Korean-American but the only reason you know that is it was mentioned once and then there's a reference to her grandmother's kimchi. Diversity in stories is nice :)
It's not really important to the story but I liked that Veronica is Korean-American but the only reason you know that is it was mentioned once and then there's a reference to her grandmother's kimchi. Diversity in stories is nice :)
April 30, 2016
I love a good zombie story and "Jax & the Beanstalk Zombies (Fairy True #1) " goes beyond the norm with steamy sex, magic and humor that totally hooked me in from the very first page. A nice, fresh, modern take on fairy tales along with zombies that I would highly recommended. Looking forward to Fairy True #2!
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
August 10, 2013
How do you make a zombie that more creepy? Tell me it giggles! That was just one of the cool tricks up Avery Flynn's writing sleeve. I really enjoyed this story. It was like a sexy, zombified trip through the enchanted kingdom. Great twists and turns. My favorite line--"...If wishes came true then mermaids would walk and evil queens would never age." Definitely recommend.
July 24, 2013
What a fun, fresh take on Jack and the Beanstalk! Veronica is a treasure hunter, but not just ordinary treasure, fairytale treasure. So when she's offered a chance to seek treasure in the land of giants at the top of the beanstalk, she takes it. Even when it means partnering with her ex-fiance, Jax. What follows is a fresh, fun tale full of surprises and love redeemed.
October 30, 2014
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. Laugh-out-loud hilarious. It has giggling zombies, a fetching goose, and betrayal. I thought it was well-paced with it's 100-ish page length.
"Don't drool on my boobs. It's not polite."
"Don't drool on my boobs. It's not polite."
May 26, 2014
This is awesome!! I was glued to the pages right from the start. The characters, Veronica and Jax, are amazing. Veronica is sassy and determined and Jax is quite similar. This story is unique and entertaining. I mean, who doesn't want to do it on a magic carpet?
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