My magic never warned me about the Loa, and these voodoo deities must be desperate if they’re looking for help from a witch like me.
A bit of downtime after the incident with the witches is a good time to work on my magic and my relationships. Or so I thought. But when the supernatural deities of New Orleans show up with a rooster in my yard and kidnap me for a ‘chat,’ I know I won’t be doing much relaxing for awhile.
There are people dying in New Orleans, and the Loa want me to investigate. No matter how much my kitsune disagrees, I owe these all powerful creatures a favor after they help me with my magic.
Now I find myself with streets that smell like the blackest magic, a boyfriend I don’t remember signing up for, and a mystery that keeps wracking up bodies. With distractions and problems throwing themselves at my feet, I’ll be lucky if I find this killer before he turns the tables on me instead…
Bury Their Bones is the second book in the Wicked Fortunes series and contains polyamory, MM, and FF content.
AJ Merlin would rather write epic love stories than live them. I mean, who wants to limit themselves to only falling in love once? She is obsessed with dark fantasy, true crime, and also dogs. From serial killers to voyeurs all the way down to the devil himself, AJ's specialty is in writing irredeemable heroes who somehow still manage to captivate their heroines (and her readers).
I liked it and I'm looking forward to the next one. It felt like the troublesome trio fell into the background a bit, but seeing Yuna and Merric's relationship progress was interesting. The series so far has been Merric heavy. Murder mystery, balancing relationships and introducing some creepy new characters. Relationship wise I preferred the first book. I'm enjoying the series and will continue with the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I enjoyed this book as much as I did the first one! This book did leave some wide open questions, so hopefully we'll get some more insight and closure on somethings in book three!
This story is absolutely phenomenal. It’s filled with action, suspense, drama and a whole lot of very steamy moments that kept me completely and utterly captivated and entertained from beginning to end.
George is sassy, fierce, courageous and very protective. She kept me gripping my kindle tightly not knowing what was going to happen and laughing at her antics. She loves fiercely and plays hard.
The writing is phenomenal and the imagery that each word invokes took me on an amazing journey that I didn’t want to end.
I’m in love with this series so far. I was expecting to see more of the troublesome trio, but we got more Merric and Yuna. And let me tell you I’m team Merric right now.
George is summoned by the Loa and is tasked with finding out who is killing people in New Orleans. With her mysterious kitsune and her sea witch, George sets out to find a killer, but may end up finding more than she bargains for.
Georgie is strong yet flawed, which makes her more relatable. She runs head long into danger without thought to the consequences. I love seeing the relationships unfold between George and her lovers. I missed the troublesome trio and I hope next book we see more of them.
*Edited review to include series final thoughts at the end*
Okay, so it seems I'm slightly in the minority here that I favor the first book over this one, but it was still a good read nonetheless.
General gist with spoilers:
🔵Rating - 3 stars - not as cool as the first book 🔵Steam - 3 stars - this is when the FF relationship starts to blossom, but in my opinion it's way less intense and interesting than what we were given in book 1. Beyond that, we get MF stuff towards the end of the book, as this author really seems to like to make us wait all the way up until the last minute. 🔵Storyline - 3 stars - interesting riddles, tricks, and plot twists. The gala is a cool event. This book is a just huge culmination of George's search for the necromancer, however drawn out in my opinion. Despite that, there are still some really cool fight scenes and gory stuff which makes it interesting. 🔵Plot Twists - 3.5 stars - the necromancer's riddles start pointing fingers, and George is so close to discovering the truth 🔵Emotional Pull - 1 star - no emotional rollercoasters here. 🔵Writing - 2 stars - a bit long winded at times, since we only get one POV. It was just a little slow in pace for my tastes. 🔵Denouement - 3 stars - we're starting to see who the key players are and the relationships are getting closer to becoming solid 🔵Cliffhanger? - not in the sense that you're itching to read the next book immediately, but in the sense that the story is far from over. 🔵HEA? - yes
*Trigger warning: lots of blood, gore, fighting, and creatures created from human remains. Also, FF and MF intimacy.
Bury Their Bones is another great installment of this series, and it flew by so fast for me!
While book one introduces us to Merric and Yuna, it's really the trio who got the emphasis, having more face time and more f*ck time with George. Book two gives Yuna and Merric a chance to take the wheel a bit more, so we're getting more time on page that focuses on George's relationship with them- what kind of secrets she gets to know, how she physically grows closer to each of them, and those sparks of emotional connection. There are some really nice moments where George gets to be vulnerable with the two of them, and vice versa, and it's just as easy to love the cecaelia and kitsune as it is the hellhound, vampire, and lich. So far, I'm not sure that I could pick any kind of favorite.
One of the things that I do really enjoy is that Yuna, in some ways, feels like a safe spot for George. Even though she has as many secrets as the rest of them, I think that she has a kind of dependability that the others aren't able to give George right now, and it's nice to see something special set aside for the only female in the harem. Though, really, that could just be how I interpret it. Yuna's also pretty kick*ss, and I do love that she really gives zero f*cks about making the men's lives easier. She's really just got eyes for George, and that's something she and Merric have in common- they don't need to prioritize other people above or at the same level as George, so I think she gets almost a cleaner start to her relationships with the two of them.
Cian, Indra, and Akiva are just as alluring as they were in book one, but they've got a lot going on, and I'm wondering if some of the events that happen in book two will lead to George's world intersecting with theirs a bit more. I'd love for them all to get more page time together because I feel like we're getting some little breadcrumbs, but I'm not learning as much about them as I'd like to.
What I'm hoping for in book three is that we get a bit more equity in her relationship development now that each group has had the chance to be a focus.
Now, the plot. What I'm very much enjoying about this series is that there is a plot, which seems like a silly thing to say, but I think it's actually relevant. There are a lot of RH books out there where the plot sort of gets lost in the midst of the relationships and all the good times and drama that come along with them. That's not the case for Wicked Fortunes. Really, in book two, we're getting to see George on her own a fair amount because she's still finding her way. As she entered New Orleans in the midst of a sh*tstorm, her life is continuing along that trend.
She's got a lot of power to master and unlock, and I think that one of the best ways she's going to do that is by the world continuing to test her. So, she gets challenges and mysteries to unlock, and yes, it does mean that she's not always with one of her partners, but I think that's one of the best things for her character development. She's got to prove them, and herself, wrong.
Like I said earlier, I'm hoping for a bit more relationship development equity, and I want to learn more about these characters. Not just because they're George's harem, but because I think theyr'e all interesting characters in their own rights. Aside from that, I'm hoping that George will k*ck their collective asses and really nail home that she's got her own source of strength. In both books one and two, she's had a bit of an inadequacy syndrome going on (in her own mind and sort of imposed on her), so I'm hoping she gets the chance to kick that even further to the curb in book three! Overall, I'm still enjoying this series, and I'm definitely looking forward to the next.
The hits keep coming, but George never backs down! The second book in the Wicked Fortunes series keeps you on your toes and delivers on the action every step of the way. George starts book two by finding herself in the middle of a murder investigation, unlike you’ve read about before. Aided by the troublesome trio, Yuna and Merric, George takes on a whole new kind of evil in New Orleans and it doesn’t always look like she’s going to come out on top.
I liked that George began to come into her own more in this book. She has doubts and questions her abilities, but that is what makes her relatable. I love that she develops her relationships with Yuna and Merric into something deeper, and that we learn more about these two, in fun ways. I missed Cian, Indra and Akiva though. They are in the book and have some quality scenes, but they are absent for quite a bit. There is plenty of story line and other things to worry about and invest in that you can’t be sad for too long, I just love the characters.
I’m really excited for book 3! I can’t wait to see what other trouble George gets into, how she finds her way out of it, and how her relationships continue to evolve. I need more Cian and Merric in my life!
Okay this story had me at the edge of my seat. Some of the scenes were legitimately scary, maybe because Voodoo is real and some of that aspect of realism makes it even scarier?The descriptions really sold the scenes too they were gruesome and bloody and down right horrifying. I loved George’s relationship with Yuna and really enjoyed seeing a relationship blossom between her and Merric. Ugh something about that fox, he’s mysterious, dark, and mischievous and it makes even sexier. I really loved this book, from the moment I picked it up I could not set it down. I only really have one qualm, I wish we had more scenes with the Terrible Trio because it almost felt like we took a step back in the the relationship George has with them. I hope we can learn more about them and what secrets they seem to be hiding. I hope more of a romance blossoms between them and George. Because as of right now I’m just getting fondness and lust from their relationship.
This book is the perfect example of an author's development - every reservation I had about the first book is addressed and improved upon, resulting in a focused and well written book.
This installment is more plot driven and reminded me of the early (best) Anita Blake books - George is exploring and developing her powers and relationships rather than throwing herself into things, having learnt humility and caution after her first adventure. There's less steam between the characters and more time spent bonding and getting to know each other, which builds a solid foundation for future books in this universe.
I really love the magic convention in this series - there are all manner of beasties as well as voodoo and paganism coexisting, even if practitioners don't exactly like each other. It offers a huge scope for future adventures and has me hooked!
Thank you to Affinity and AJ for sending over this book to us to read its really appreciated.
This is the second book in the wicked fortunes series and we have had the pleasure in reading the first and now the second.
In the first book we meet Merric Yuna and George amongst others but during this book we get a chance to see a lot more of Yuna and Merric as they take front and centre a little more. This story focuses on George’s relationship with them and how her connection ignites and flourishes with them and physically grows.
We still see Cian,Indra and Akiva throughout this book but only little snippets here and there.
Overall i really enjoyed this book like the first it’s very interesting and I’m looking forward to reading the third instalment.
George is getting herself into trouble again! The action and mystery continues in this second book where George has found herself roped in to helping solve some mysterious murders. One of the things I liked about this was the focus this book had on George’s relationship with Yuna and Merric. While I did miss reading more about the troublesome trio, I think it was important to help develop the connection between these characters. This book isn’t necessarily left on a cliffhanger but there are unanswered questions and it’s set up to go head first into book 3. Overall really good story, characters and it’s got an original plot line that’s different from other books. I can’t wait to see George really get into her own powers!
George agrees to help out with a big task going on in the voodoo community. So we get to see alot more emphasis on things in that community which was great to see. We also see more george, merric and yuna in this book which is great after only getting to know them alittle in the first book.
George's magic is still a little wonky but she's slowly trying to learn how her magic really works sometimes that just happens when weird stuff happens. Can we talk about the entrance....I was rooting for her so hard and I could just picture it...love it 🔥
It's going to be interesting to see her relationship develop more with each of the people surrounding her as well as these newcomers that we aren't quite sure about yet
This was definitely a great follow up to the previous book A Little Wicked. This book brings Yuna and Merric to the forefront while the troublesome trio deal with other matters but thankfully they still make appearances throughout the book.
I have to say that George has definitely grown up more in this book and their were times when I was super proud of her for not having to depend on one of her lovers to save her. I am looking forward to learning more about her powers and seeing her reach her full potential.
I absolutely fell in love with Merric and I really enjoyed learning more about who he really is. I am looking forward to what is coming in the next book.
I recieved an advanced copy for free, and this is my honest opinion
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
This book is even better then book one which is saying something since it was fantastic. George is back with all her men but they have a new issue to deal with. This time we spent quite a bit of time with Yuna and Merric as they assist George. They have to find out who or what is killing their people at the request of some voodoo Gods. This makes for quite the adventure as it all plays out. George is a hoot to follow due to her being so very multi-faceted when it comes to her character. Her reactions to things is totally fantastic. Merlin really knows how to bring a character to life. I cannot wait for book three! I totally loved it so I give it 5/5 stars.
Stunning sequel, the first book wrapped up George's adventures in such a way that I was worried about what the second book was going to do, but not only should I have not been worried the second book may have been better than the first! George sets out on a new adventure with tones of mystery, that unfortunately ends on a cliffhanger for book 3. The romance with Yuna and Merric is getting steamy, although the troublesome trio is seen less in this book. With so much going on you dont have time to miss them. And there just might be some mystery with them as well. So much to love, definitely a must read series.
This is the second book in the series and wow does it deliver!! The story is centred around a witch and while it is hot and heavy in places, the storyline is centre stage. I loved that as a reader you get to dive head first into the supernatural world and its inner workings. Of course, the story is set in New Orleans but it is drenched in magic rather than partying. This 2nd part delves into Voodoo and the Loa. I learnt alot and I don't think I've used my Kindle search function so much. The book is written with so much knowledge and depth that it shows the author truly understands the story she is portraying.
I really enjoyed this story and how the characters developed. I got to know George better and her powers started to really come out and shine. I am curious to see where the story goes and how her powers continue to grow. It didn't end on a cliff hanger, but I can easily picture where this story can go and I cannot wait to read the next book. Warning this book might make you want to get a tarot deck and read your future. There is some ff and fm sexual scenes. I would consider this one to be more of a slow burn with a sprinkle of edging throughout with an explosive ending. Enjoy.
Holy S***! This book is amazing! I finished it in less than a day. I thought that the first book in the series was amazing (it totally was) but this book blew it out of the water. I loved seeing George and her relationships grow and evolve. I also appreciate the fact that she was in relationships didn’t immediately fix all of her insecurities and that the relationships didn’t immediately become perfect, what I’m trying to say is I like how gritty and realistic it all is. I honestly can’t wait to see where the author takes this storyline next!
2nd book in the series , brings us George and her guys and girl , taking on the bad guys of New Orleans . This book gives us a better understanding of George and centers more on my personal fave kitsune , where the first was more on the troublesome trio . I really enjoyed this book , and loved the depth it added to the characters , the plot held my interest , and kept me flipping the page. George’s world is a fascinating, funny , sometimes scary and violent place and I can’t wait to dive back in .
AJ Merlin didn’t disappoint with the second installment in her Wicked Fortune series. I loved Bury Their Bones just as much as I did A Little Wicked.
George is a fun FMC to read about. She has plenty of skunk and personality. Her interactions with all the characters, not just romantic, are entertaining and engaging. I also enjoyed reading about the developing relationships. Merric and Yuna definitely shared some interesting tiimes with George. I’m so excited to see how their story continues in the next book.
The main character has some major insecurities that normally in small doses round out a character but damn, they keep cropping up. Loud. And now annoyingly loud. We get it, so prove everyone wrong with action and stop whining about it. Geez. Will read the next to see if the big bad is who I think but I hope the main character gets some more confidence and knowledge. Because her fear that people don’t respect is is true , the author says so and it sits strangely with me.
I'd been waiting for this book to come out and it's just as good as the first in the series, if not better because we get to know Merric a bit better. I felt that George is a little bit lost in herself in the beginning but her confidence in her abilities starts to grow towards the end of the book and girl I hate riddles too so I'd be as frustrated as she was!
Can't wait to see where the series goes next, I loved that we got to see a different side of New Orleans, away from the witches and into the Loa and Voodoo side.
I was so happy with this book. George is defining who she is more and more in this series and she's is starting to realize how powerful she is. This book focuses alot more on her relationships with Yuna and Merrick. I love how each book has been focusing on developing her relationships versus insta love. The plot flows well and provides a nice change from repetitive plots I've been finding in other books. I can't wait to see what else AJ has up her sleeve.
This is my favourite books of 2021 and I can honestly say I loved every minute of it, I loved the attention to detail in this book and how much research went into this about NOLA. This book had an amazing plot and was balanced out with the perfect amount of steam, angst and action. The characters were written in an amazing way and you can easily find yourself relating to some of the quickly i honestly cant wait to see what the author writes next.
I am really liking this series. The author is going into different details when it comes to not just magic with witches an voodoo but other forms as well. George has been tasked with the job from the voodoo deities. Someone is killing their people and they want to know who. George is also trying to figure out her feelings for all her lovers. She also is having some issue's with her cards on in particular.
With every word on the page I get more and more entranced in George’s story. From her juggling her love life to trying to come to terms and understand her magic, it continues to amaze me. As for spice I would say it is a medium burn, there isn’t a whole lot in this book but I was left wishing for more either. I am excited to start the final installment of the trilogy.
I received a ARC in exchange for honest review. A great follow up to A Little Wicked. Introduced to voodoo & the Loa to shake up George's world. Still has the great banter & chemistry with the Troublesome Trio. Theres more of Yuna to enjoy & WHOA a hell of a lot more of Merric ;). The action scenes were intense & raced through to see how they played out.
I love this series! George is such a strong, sassy and entertaining character. She defiantly runs into danger far to often with little regard to her wellbeing to ensure that those she cares about are safe. Merric is one of my favorites with all of his mystery and snark. I could not put this book down.
I can not wait to see what George has instore in the next book!
Just keeps getting better! George is looking into murders and trying to find out who’s killing voodoo practitioners this time. This book had me unable to put it down and was a great read start to finish. Love all the characters although I think Merric is my favorite love interest. Can’t wait to see what happens in the next book and how George handles it.
I really enjoyed this book. The story continues to be unique, and it stands out from the other paranormal romances. I do hope to get a little more development in the characters relationships as the books go on! But overall, a great sequel that I devoured in a day.