What do you think?
Rate this book
The Hollows #7
White Witch, Black Curse
New York Times bestselling author Kim Harrison returns to the sinister and seductive Hollows for the newest blockcuster adventure featuring Rachel Morgan, witch and bounty hunter.
White Witch, Black Curse
Some wounds take time to heal...and some scars never fade.
Rachel Morgan, kick-ass witch and bounty hunter, has taken her fair share of hits, and has broken lines she swore she would never cross. But when her lover was murdered, it left a deeper wound than Rachel ever imagined, and now she won't rest until his death is solved...and avenged. Whatever the cost.
Yet the road to hell is paved with good intentions, and when a new predator moves to the apex of the Inderland food chain, Rachel's past comes back to haunt her.
Literally.
White Witch, Black Curse
Some wounds take time to heal...and some scars never fade.
Rachel Morgan, kick-ass witch and bounty hunter, has taken her fair share of hits, and has broken lines she swore she would never cross. But when her lover was murdered, it left a deeper wound than Rachel ever imagined, and now she won't rest until his death is solved...and avenged. Whatever the cost.
Yet the road to hell is paved with good intentions, and when a new predator moves to the apex of the Inderland food chain, Rachel's past comes back to haunt her.
Literally.
504 pages, Hardcover
First published February 24, 2009
About the author
Kim Harrison
81 books18.3k followersKim Harrison is best known as the author of the New York Times #1 best selling Hollows series, but she has written more than urban fantasy and has published over two-dozen books spanning the gamut from young adult, thriller, several anthologies, and has scripted two original graphic novels. She has also published traditional fantasy under the name Dawn Cook. Kim is currently working on a new Hollows book between other, non related, urban fantasy projects.
Kim reaches out to her audience at Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KimHarrisons...
Instagram
https://instagram.com/kim_harrison_au...
and her blog http://kimharrison.wordpress.com/
other pseudonyms: Dawn Cook
Kim reaches out to her audience at Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KimHarrisons...
https://instagram.com/kim_harrison_au...
and her blog http://kimharrison.wordpress.com/
other pseudonyms: Dawn Cook
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,334 reviews
July 25, 2015
How could I not love this like all of the previous books? Not sure when there's going to be a book in this series that I do not give it 5 stars. This one deserved every single one of them, and so did its predecessors.
A child banshee unable to control her powers and a mother bringing hell on earth to keep her safe and to herself. Bashees suck on emotion and eventually kill you. I dig this hard, it's amazing to see how powerful some creatures are and it's not even a demon.
After the events of the last book, now that we know that every child Rachel has is going to become a demon.. She's acting nonchallant about it but it hurts her. Hell, who wouldn't it hurt?
Rachel and Ivy are working things out, they are again at a good place, maybe the best they've been. Ivy is controlling her bloodlust better than ever and that's affecting their relationship.
I loved how Rachel kept Marshall at distance. Rachel and Marshall get a no from me. But that's all in the past now. A new love interest arrives. Hmm, well, it arrived on the last pages of the book. And it made Rachel realize something.
Kisten's killer is found. Yes, yes. Finally. I was disappointed by this but it's okay because there were many other things that surprised me throughout the book, so I'll forgive the author for that.
Wow, I'm on to the next one now. The 8th book in the series. This may actually be the longest series that I've ever tried to read. It's worth its time, undoubtedly.
A child banshee unable to control her powers and a mother bringing hell on earth to keep her safe and to herself. Bashees suck on emotion and eventually kill you. I dig this hard, it's amazing to see how powerful some creatures are and it's not even a demon.
After the events of the last book, now that we know that every child Rachel has is going to become a demon.. She's acting nonchallant about it but it hurts her. Hell, who wouldn't it hurt?
Rachel and Ivy are working things out, they are again at a good place, maybe the best they've been. Ivy is controlling her bloodlust better than ever and that's affecting their relationship.
I loved how Rachel kept Marshall at distance. Rachel and Marshall get a no from me. But that's all in the past now. A new love interest arrives. Hmm, well, it arrived on the last pages of the book. And it made Rachel realize something.
Kisten's killer is found. Yes, yes. Finally. I was disappointed by this but it's okay because there were many other things that surprised me throughout the book, so I'll forgive the author for that.
Wow, I'm on to the next one now. The 8th book in the series. This may actually be the longest series that I've ever tried to read. It's worth its time, undoubtedly.
April 23, 2015
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads
White Witch, Black Curse introduces us to a new type of Inderlander—the banshee. Well, introduces us directly. Mia (the banshee) shows up in a couple of the novellas, but in the seventh installment of The Hollows, she is front and center. And not in a good way.
Harrison’s version of a banshee is more like a succubus or a psychic vampire. They’re seen before a person dies, not b/c they’re a herald of death, but b/c they’re doing the killing. By sucking the life force, or aura, from a person, and after that’s gone, the soul. They’re dangerous, apex predators, and their ability to feed is strictly monitored by the Inderlander community and strictly policed by other banshees.
Or at least that’s the claim. Personally, I don’t think the book backed up that idea. I.S. (Inderlander Security) didn’t do a damn thing to stop Mia’s rampage, and as far as I could tell, the only reason another banshee got involved was b/c she wanted Mia’s child (Holly). If there had been no Holly, I’m not convinced they would have gotten involved at all.
Banshee shenanigans aside, LOTS more Big Things are going on.<——it’s kind of a trend at this point, yes?
Ford (the maybe human empath) discovers that there’s a ghost in the church, and Rachel figures out that she can see the ghost, if they’re both standing in a ley line at the same time.
Pretty cool, right?
Until Al shows up and snatches the ghost. Demons apparently have ways of getting a new body for a ghost, and this isn’t just any ghost, no, it’s the ghost of Gordian Nathaniel Pierce, aspiring killer of demons. Al’s pretty sure he can make quite a bit of money selling Pierce as a familiar.
Which, of course, makes Rachel lose her mind. Underdog and all that.
Oh. And Rachel gets SHUNNED. I’m not sure why. At first I thought it was all of the very public confrontations with demons, but now I think it’s b/c of something else that doesn’t become an issue until the next book, so not telling.
And finally, in the showdown with Mia, Rachel remembers what happened thatnightwedonotspeakof. When she remembers, Rachel loses her mind again, and as a result something happens with her and Ivy and their auras that I’m pretty sure is going to turn out to be HUGELY important in the final book.
AND that, my friends, is why I reread these long-running series before the last book comes out. There’s still time. You’ve got six weeks. Just sayin’ . . . *wink*
My other reviews for this series:
Dead Witch Walking (The Hollows #1)
The Good, the Bad, and the Undead (The Hollows #2)
Every Which Way But Dead (The Hollows #3)
A Fistful of Charms (The Hollows #4)
For a Few Demons More (The Hollows #5)
The Outlaw Demon Wails (The Hollows #6)
Black Magic Sanction (The Hollows #8)
Pale Demon (The Hollows #9)
The Undead Pool (The Hollows #12)
Into the Woods: Tales from the Hollows and Beyond
White Witch, Black Curse introduces us to a new type of Inderlander—the banshee. Well, introduces us directly. Mia (the banshee) shows up in a couple of the novellas, but in the seventh installment of The Hollows, she is front and center. And not in a good way.
Harrison’s version of a banshee is more like a succubus or a psychic vampire. They’re seen before a person dies, not b/c they’re a herald of death, but b/c they’re doing the killing. By sucking the life force, or aura, from a person, and after that’s gone, the soul. They’re dangerous, apex predators, and their ability to feed is strictly monitored by the Inderlander community and strictly policed by other banshees.
Or at least that’s the claim. Personally, I don’t think the book backed up that idea. I.S. (Inderlander Security) didn’t do a damn thing to stop Mia’s rampage, and as far as I could tell, the only reason another banshee got involved was b/c she wanted Mia’s child (Holly). If there had been no Holly, I’m not convinced they would have gotten involved at all.
Banshee shenanigans aside, LOTS more Big Things are going on.<——it’s kind of a trend at this point, yes?
Ford (the maybe human empath) discovers that there’s a ghost in the church, and Rachel figures out that she can see the ghost, if they’re both standing in a ley line at the same time.
Pretty cool, right?
Until Al shows up and snatches the ghost. Demons apparently have ways of getting a new body for a ghost, and this isn’t just any ghost, no, it’s the ghost of Gordian Nathaniel Pierce, aspiring killer of demons. Al’s pretty sure he can make quite a bit of money selling Pierce as a familiar.
Which, of course, makes Rachel lose her mind. Underdog and all that.
Oh. And Rachel gets SHUNNED. I’m not sure why. At first I thought it was all of the very public confrontations with demons, but now I think it’s b/c of something else that doesn’t become an issue until the next book, so not telling.
And finally, in the showdown with Mia, Rachel remembers what happened thatnightwedonotspeakof. When she remembers, Rachel loses her mind again, and as a result something happens with her and Ivy and their auras that I’m pretty sure is going to turn out to be HUGELY important in the final book.
AND that, my friends, is why I reread these long-running series before the last book comes out. There’s still time. You’ve got six weeks. Just sayin’ . . . *wink*
My other reviews for this series:
Dead Witch Walking (The Hollows #1)
The Good, the Bad, and the Undead (The Hollows #2)
Every Which Way But Dead (The Hollows #3)
A Fistful of Charms (The Hollows #4)
For a Few Demons More (The Hollows #5)
The Outlaw Demon Wails (The Hollows #6)
Black Magic Sanction (The Hollows #8)
Pale Demon (The Hollows #9)
The Undead Pool (The Hollows #12)
Into the Woods: Tales from the Hollows and Beyond
April 12, 2021
Tinks’ titties!* The rage was strong in this one. And rightfully so.
Rachel wants to finally remember what happened on Kisten’s boat and thus find the killer that even tried to blood-bind her. She is helped in her endeavors by Ford, a very uniquely talented psychologist.
But then there is an attack on Glenn, the FIB officer Rachel has been working with for a while. So „Vampiric Charms“ is investigating who attacked him, how and why - and, of course, it’s not going to be easy.
Last but not least, Rachel’s mother is coming home from a trip and bringing Rachel’s older brother with her.
That plus weird stuff happening around thehouse church (such as the phone ringing instead of being on vibrate or the ringtones being changed despite Jenks not having done anything) results in a tense and mysterious atmosphere. *snickers*
Naturally, there is darker stuff, too. Like . She can't let that stand, of course.
I found myself getting angrier and angrier with all the people avoiding Rachel for her aura - you know, civilians who don’t know shit but presume they can judge those who fight (for them, also).
Or all the slander. Right down to the fucking hospital daring to refuse treatment for Rachel on the witches’ wing, none of the stores selling to her anymore or the prison and the guard’s plan .
It was made worse by it not only being interlander civilians but the humans at the FIB, too, who still think that Rachel’s amnesia about Kisten’s death was too convenient.
And don’t get me started on the arrogant idiot of a brother. Not just his opinion on her getting shunned or him never telling her about their bio-dad, but also him thinking the IS and everything else Rachel has done not being „a real job“ or that her friends aren’t real friends / good enough and that she should make new / better ones. Arrogant, ignorant little twat! Having a certain view on the world and god help anyone not fitting into that.
The worst, though, is that these characters (there are others just like Robbie) get away with their terrible behavior and the second an abused character (like Rachel) is pushing back, they are automatically told to cut them some slack and to be better and all that self-righteous shit that is nothing but bull meant to give people like Robbie even more power over others.
Not that Marshall was much better. I get that he doesn’t want to live outside of society but Rachel only did what was right, reacting to terrible situations - sometimes you have to break some eggs to make an omelette!
Though worst of all is that ungrateful bastard, Trent!
*screams in frustration*
Thus, this volume made me feel all the feels and was a bit darker than the previous one again. Though not too much. Rather, by having the afore-mentioned infuriating elements it made the plot even more fast-paced. Not that the fights needed to get any more fast-paced. ;)
Certain Schadenfreude-inducing turn of events () also made it more bearable.
Moreover, we’ve slowly but surely moved more and more away from the usual witchcraft and towards demon magic, summonings etc. Since I love the more traditional witchcraft (making potions and stuff like that), I felt a slight pang.
But I have to admit that I still love where the author is taking the series. The wit behind dealing with demons, the lessons with/from Al, the history behind the different species (especially what witches actually are), Ford’s unique magic, the banshees, the ghost - it was all rather wonderful. Though I think my favorite moment was Biss’ encounter with Al. *lol*
So yeah, the writing was as good as ever and the plot keeps thickening while there are endearing as well as hilarious moments counter-balancing the darker stuff.
* Jenks is easily still the best character and his curses are fantastic! :D
Rachel wants to finally remember what happened on Kisten’s boat and thus find the killer that even tried to blood-bind her. She is helped in her endeavors by Ford, a very uniquely talented psychologist.
But then there is an attack on Glenn, the FIB officer Rachel has been working with for a while. So „Vampiric Charms“ is investigating who attacked him, how and why - and, of course, it’s not going to be easy.
Last but not least, Rachel’s mother is coming home from a trip and bringing Rachel’s older brother with her.
That plus weird stuff happening around the
Naturally, there is darker stuff, too. Like . She can't let that stand, of course.
I found myself getting angrier and angrier with all the people avoiding Rachel for her aura - you know, civilians who don’t know shit but presume they can judge those who fight (for them, also).
Or all the slander. Right down to the fucking hospital daring to refuse treatment for Rachel on the witches’ wing, none of the stores selling to her anymore or the prison and the guard’s plan .
It was made worse by it not only being interlander civilians but the humans at the FIB, too, who still think that Rachel’s amnesia about Kisten’s death was too convenient.
And don’t get me started on the arrogant idiot of a brother. Not just his opinion on her getting shunned or him never telling her about their bio-dad, but also him thinking the IS and everything else Rachel has done not being „a real job“ or that her friends aren’t real friends / good enough and that she should make new / better ones. Arrogant, ignorant little twat! Having a certain view on the world and god help anyone not fitting into that.
The worst, though, is that these characters (there are others just like Robbie) get away with their terrible behavior and the second an abused character (like Rachel) is pushing back, they are automatically told to cut them some slack and to be better and all that self-righteous shit that is nothing but bull meant to give people like Robbie even more power over others.
Not that Marshall was much better. I get that he doesn’t want to live outside of society but Rachel only did what was right, reacting to terrible situations - sometimes you have to break some eggs to make an omelette!
Though worst of all is that ungrateful bastard, Trent!
*screams in frustration*
Thus, this volume made me feel all the feels and was a bit darker than the previous one again. Though not too much. Rather, by having the afore-mentioned infuriating elements it made the plot even more fast-paced. Not that the fights needed to get any more fast-paced. ;)
Certain Schadenfreude-inducing turn of events () also made it more bearable.
Moreover, we’ve slowly but surely moved more and more away from the usual witchcraft and towards demon magic, summonings etc. Since I love the more traditional witchcraft (making potions and stuff like that), I felt a slight pang.
But I have to admit that I still love where the author is taking the series. The wit behind dealing with demons, the lessons with/from Al, the history behind the different species (especially what witches actually are), Ford’s unique magic, the banshees, the ghost - it was all rather wonderful. Though I think my favorite moment was Biss’ encounter with Al. *lol*
So yeah, the writing was as good as ever and the plot keeps thickening while there are endearing as well as hilarious moments counter-balancing the darker stuff.
* Jenks is easily still the best character and his curses are fantastic! :D
March 2, 2009
I was disappointed with this book. It felt like there were far too many things going on at once and so it lacked a coherent focus. Rachel is trying to find Kistin's murderer, tag a banshee, and deal with Al/save Pierce. It's not unusual for there to be multiple threads in Harrison's books, the problem is that this time Rachel's not focused on what is supposed to be her primary run. She's proactive the first time she gets the call, but after that she doesn't do anything until she's called in and then it's to refuse to help.
Kistin's murder feels like a bookend, it's the focus of the beginning and the end of the book. Rachel is actively pursuing it in the beginning but then it gets pushed to the side and Ivy is the one doing the investigating. I felt like it got shortchanged, which is unfortunate. I think the person who actually did the deed was an interesting choice and that discovery could (should) have been a book of its own.
The shunning seems to come from nowhere. If it was going to happen I'd much rather it happen after Rachel actually did something to cause it. Instead it happens after she she did nothing other than show up. From what I recall, no black magic was actually used at the scene by Rachel or anyone else, the accusation seems completely made up by the press. So I don't understand why Rachel acts as though she's made some kind of mistake that justifies the shunning. There have been plenty of things she's done in the past that might have justified it, at least from an outside point of view, so I really am not sure why Harrison decided to have her shunned for something she didn't really do and why she has Rachel accept it. The shunning is clearly a response to the accumulation of things that Rachel had done in the past, but it's just as clear that the events at the mall were the straw that broke the camel's back. I just wish that straw was real.
The revolving door that is Rachel's love life is starting to get really, really old. The whole thing with Marhsall just seemed unnecessary and her deciding that he was right to leave because she "failed to have everything under control when she promised she did" was really lame because again, she got shunned for basically showing up. I'm not sure how that gets to be her fault.
The thing with Ivy is annoying because I thought it was pretty clear they'd decided they were close friends who loved each other but not in a romantic way and while that wasn't the resolution I'd hoped for, I thought it was reasonable and I was glad it was resolved. Now it's sort of back up in the air again. There was an idea floated to try and make the virus dormant, at least while Ivy is living, basically making her human (or witch?) but I think doing so would radically change who Ivy is. They can't be together and still be who they are unless they can get rid of the dominance part of it.
The thing with Pierce might be the most annoying thing of all. I'm not sure if I'd be less annoyed if I hadn't already read the short story where he's introduced or not. I might buy the whole he's the man she's measured everyone else against deal if he'd ever been mentioned before in the main series. I can't imagine how confusing it would be if I hadn't read the story he's in. I guess the thought is that if he's already dead she can't get him killed? He doesn't do much for me and the nineteenth century speech is going to get old.
Kistin's murder feels like a bookend, it's the focus of the beginning and the end of the book. Rachel is actively pursuing it in the beginning but then it gets pushed to the side and Ivy is the one doing the investigating. I felt like it got shortchanged, which is unfortunate. I think the person who actually did the deed was an interesting choice and that discovery could (should) have been a book of its own.
The shunning seems to come from nowhere. If it was going to happen I'd much rather it happen after Rachel actually did something to cause it. Instead it happens after she she did nothing other than show up. From what I recall, no black magic was actually used at the scene by Rachel or anyone else, the accusation seems completely made up by the press. So I don't understand why Rachel acts as though she's made some kind of mistake that justifies the shunning. There have been plenty of things she's done in the past that might have justified it, at least from an outside point of view, so I really am not sure why Harrison decided to have her shunned for something she didn't really do and why she has Rachel accept it. The shunning is clearly a response to the accumulation of things that Rachel had done in the past, but it's just as clear that the events at the mall were the straw that broke the camel's back. I just wish that straw was real.
The revolving door that is Rachel's love life is starting to get really, really old. The whole thing with Marhsall just seemed unnecessary and her deciding that he was right to leave because she "failed to have everything under control when she promised she did" was really lame because again, she got shunned for basically showing up. I'm not sure how that gets to be her fault.
The thing with Ivy is annoying because I thought it was pretty clear they'd decided they were close friends who loved each other but not in a romantic way and while that wasn't the resolution I'd hoped for, I thought it was reasonable and I was glad it was resolved. Now it's sort of back up in the air again. There was an idea floated to try and make the virus dormant, at least while Ivy is living, basically making her human (or witch?) but I think doing so would radically change who Ivy is. They can't be together and still be who they are unless they can get rid of the dominance part of it.
The thing with Pierce might be the most annoying thing of all. I'm not sure if I'd be less annoyed if I hadn't already read the short story where he's introduced or not. I might buy the whole he's the man she's measured everyone else against deal if he'd ever been mentioned before in the main series. I can't imagine how confusing it would be if I hadn't read the story he's in. I guess the thought is that if he's already dead she can't get him killed? He doesn't do much for me and the nineteenth century speech is going to get old.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2012
I can never quite love the Hollows books, but I never stop reading them, either! This is a world that you can't forget...there's something about the unique casting of characters and the way they all interact together that makes them so very memorable.
I just love Rachel and Jenks. Their friendship and complete and utter loyalty to each other make this series for me.
What about Ivy, you ask? That vampy chick pisses me right the hell OFF! I rant about Ivy in every review, but I'll do it again here. She is so freaking doom and gloom, whiny, bitchy, and grumpy. She STILL hasn't come to terms with the fact that her so-called best friend Rachel doesn't want to sleep with her or give her blood, or both. She STILL makes Rachel feel bad about it, and still can't control her bloodlust. I think Rachel is one hell of an admirable friend to put up with her, and I think Ivy is selfish. Moving on...
Rachel is still lonely, even with the myriad variety of creatures around who are friendly. She doesn't have anyone of her very own aside from Marshall, and they are trying to keep their relationship platonic and actually doing a very good job with it. Al the demon is now getting Rachel's assistance in the ever after every Saturday...and believe it or not, I actually really like Al. He's a demon, sure. But he makes no apologies and doesn't pretend to be someone that he's not. That's a quality that most of Rachel's other acquaintances are sorely lacking.
Trent makes a bit of a cameo (sigh!) but not much comes from it. He's still peeved at Rachel and wrongly crucifying her for circumstances that he MUST know, deep down, were completely out of her control. I love me some Trent, but he's also a selfish bastard sometimes!
This installment to the Hollows didn't do much in the way of moving the story in the way that I WANT it to go, but I think I'm okay with the fact that events never unfold the way I expect OR want them to when it comes to Rachel Mariana Morgan. It keeps me on my toes, for sure, and I'm really stoked to know that I don't have the slightest clue as to how the next book will play out!
I just love Rachel and Jenks. Their friendship and complete and utter loyalty to each other make this series for me.
What about Ivy, you ask? That vampy chick pisses me right the hell OFF! I rant about Ivy in every review, but I'll do it again here. She is so freaking doom and gloom, whiny, bitchy, and grumpy. She STILL hasn't come to terms with the fact that her so-called best friend Rachel doesn't want to sleep with her or give her blood, or both. She STILL makes Rachel feel bad about it, and still can't control her bloodlust. I think Rachel is one hell of an admirable friend to put up with her, and I think Ivy is selfish. Moving on...
Rachel is still lonely, even with the myriad variety of creatures around who are friendly. She doesn't have anyone of her very own aside from Marshall, and they are trying to keep their relationship platonic and actually doing a very good job with it. Al the demon is now getting Rachel's assistance in the ever after every Saturday...and believe it or not, I actually really like Al. He's a demon, sure. But he makes no apologies and doesn't pretend to be someone that he's not. That's a quality that most of Rachel's other acquaintances are sorely lacking.
Trent makes a bit of a cameo (sigh!) but not much comes from it. He's still peeved at Rachel and wrongly crucifying her for circumstances that he MUST know, deep down, were completely out of her control. I love me some Trent, but he's also a selfish bastard sometimes!
This installment to the Hollows didn't do much in the way of moving the story in the way that I WANT it to go, but I think I'm okay with the fact that events never unfold the way I expect OR want them to when it comes to Rachel Mariana Morgan. It keeps me on my toes, for sure, and I'm really stoked to know that I don't have the slightest clue as to how the next book will play out!
September 17, 2014
Eh. It took me 13 days to get through this book (this is more than four times what a genre book this size would usually take), and it's not just because I was off travelling and had less time.
I could have made the time to read. I just .... had a hard time making myself go into the effort. And whenever I did, I inevitably got bored or sleepy after a chapter or two.
I don't even know. I've had problems with the writing in all the books in this series (and this one was no exception), but at least the fun factor has won out so far. The previous book was my favourite so far, so I assumed the high would continue. And yet basically nothing in this one clicked.
I was just... bored. It all felt repetitive and whiny and dull. Every single plot point (was there even a plot in this one?) was rehashed and repeated multiple times. I appreciate that some advances were finally made, with the solving of Kisten's murder and with some stuff with Ivy, but I'm just so tired of the whole Ivy thing and I wish the solving of Kisten's murder, stretched out over several books as it was, had never been necessary in the first place. All it meant was endless rehashing of Rachel not having any memory of that night and Jenks being sorry and Ivy being a vampire and... whatever.
Also, I couldn't stand Pierce.
The whole banshee and aura stuff didn't work for me either. Banshee stuff because I really felt uneasy about how everyone, especially any of the Inderlanders, seemed to sorta excuse the killing of humans because eh, it's what banshees do and they gotta eat and whatever (or if not excuse, then taking it far too lightly), and the aura stuff because, again, it was repetitive ad nauseam.
Anyway, I really hope it picks up for me again in the next book, but I think I might want to take a longer break from the series for now.
I could have made the time to read. I just .... had a hard time making myself go into the effort. And whenever I did, I inevitably got bored or sleepy after a chapter or two.
I don't even know. I've had problems with the writing in all the books in this series (and this one was no exception), but at least the fun factor has won out so far. The previous book was my favourite so far, so I assumed the high would continue. And yet basically nothing in this one clicked.
I was just... bored. It all felt repetitive and whiny and dull. Every single plot point (was there even a plot in this one?) was rehashed and repeated multiple times. I appreciate that some advances were finally made, with the solving of Kisten's murder and with some stuff with Ivy, but I'm just so tired of the whole Ivy thing and I wish the solving of Kisten's murder, stretched out over several books as it was, had never been necessary in the first place. All it meant was endless rehashing of Rachel not having any memory of that night and Jenks being sorry and Ivy being a vampire and... whatever.
Also, I couldn't stand Pierce.
The whole banshee and aura stuff didn't work for me either. Banshee stuff because I really felt uneasy about how everyone, especially any of the Inderlanders, seemed to sorta excuse the killing of humans because eh, it's what banshees do and they gotta eat and whatever (or if not excuse, then taking it far too lightly), and the aura stuff because, again, it was repetitive ad nauseam.
Anyway, I really hope it picks up for me again in the next book, but I think I might want to take a longer break from the series for now.
April 13, 2021
The great Hollows Re-Read continues!
Back when I first started this series, I tore through the already published books only to have to wait what seemed an interminably long time to get to this one. And after the gut punch, the memory issues, and the tragedy in the previous book, I didn't think it could get much worse.
And so we get to this book, trying to pick up the pieces while trying to hunt down a supernatural murderer that is *rather* out of everyone's league. Can you hear the banshees calling now? Of course, while this part of the plot was delicious, there was something else that slammed me up against the wall harder: finding out what really happened in the previous book and getting closure.
Kim Harrison has it all planned out and unrolls this carpet slowly. Oh so slowly. And the tears come all too easily.
I should note that this book is also a huge payoff for anyone who has read the complete short story catalog up to this point. Lots of backstory and extras for Pierce, Mia, and Ivy come home to roost here, deepening the experience for everything.
And then there is Rachel's shunning. Perhaps the hardest thing to get through. And worse, there is no easy resolution. Her entire people are against her. This is slightly more than being canceled.
This book is hard-hitting and one of the best in the series.
Back when I first started this series, I tore through the already published books only to have to wait what seemed an interminably long time to get to this one. And after the gut punch, the memory issues, and the tragedy in the previous book, I didn't think it could get much worse.
And so we get to this book, trying to pick up the pieces while trying to hunt down a supernatural murderer that is *rather* out of everyone's league. Can you hear the banshees calling now? Of course, while this part of the plot was delicious, there was something else that slammed me up against the wall harder: finding out what really happened in the previous book and getting closure.
Kim Harrison has it all planned out and unrolls this carpet slowly. Oh so slowly. And the tears come all too easily.
I should note that this book is also a huge payoff for anyone who has read the complete short story catalog up to this point. Lots of backstory and extras for Pierce, Mia, and Ivy come home to roost here, deepening the experience for everything.
And then there is Rachel's shunning. Perhaps the hardest thing to get through. And worse, there is no easy resolution. Her entire people are against her. This is slightly more than being canceled.
This book is hard-hitting and one of the best in the series.
March 3, 2009
Okay, I think we've officially entered the extremely strange realm where a book outstrips its author. I can't count the number of times there was this cool visual image (gargoyle correcting his size by plinking out ice cubes) or interesting emotional moment (Rachel having a flashback) and I nearly missed it because of a clumsy phrase or an anvil to the head. And this book lost major points with me for ham-handed exploitation of terminally ill children for emotional juice that it didn't even need.
And yet . . .
And yet it's still on all dimensions better than any other paranormal-urban-romance-fantasy I've tried -- plotting, sexual politics, supporting cast. And yet I'd read the Rachel and Trent show until the cows come home. And yet there are clearly even more interesting things to come, and not every last one has been semaphored fifty pages ahead of time. And yet, the pixies!
And yet . . .
And yet it's still on all dimensions better than any other paranormal-urban-romance-fantasy I've tried -- plotting, sexual politics, supporting cast. And yet I'd read the Rachel and Trent show until the cows come home. And yet there are clearly even more interesting things to come, and not every last one has been semaphored fifty pages ahead of time. And yet, the pixies!
February 21, 2022
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/
I really liked this book! I am quickly discovering that I am enjoying this series more and more with each book I read. Rachel has been through a lot and at this point in the series, I am pretty invested in seeing things work out for her. Unfortunately, it seems that she just can’t catch a break so this was another installment full of excitement that made it hard to step away from the book. I am so glad that I am finally making my way through this incredibly entertaining series.
So Rachel has a few things that she needs to work out in this installment. She is still trying to learn what really happened to Kisten and she is determined to find out what it is that she can’t seem to remember regarding his death. When she hears that Glenn has been injured, she wants to find out what happened to her friend within the FIB. Before you know it she is up against an almost impossible force, a banshee. Throw in more problems with Al, a ghost from her past, and some surprises in her family and there are plenty of things to keep Rachel, Jenks, and Ivy more than a little busy.
I had no idea how Rachel would deal with everything going on in this book. I felt so frustrated for her because she is constantly putting herself at risk to protect others and society seems to want to punish her for her efforts. There were some pretty exciting scenes in this book and Rachel found herself in a heap of trouble more than once. I have a strong feeling that a lot of the things that happened in this installment will have a big impact on future books.
Marguerite Gavin was back to narrate this installment in the series. I have to admit that I was really happy to hear her version of Jenks and the rest of the gang, along with pronunciations that were consistent with the early books in the series after listening to a different narrator for the previous book. I thought that she did a fabulous job with this book and really helped to bring the story to life.
I would recommend this series to others. It is quickly becoming a favorite but I would definitely recommend that it be read in order. This was an exciting story that helped to move the series along and kept me glued to my headphones. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
Initial Thoughts
I really liked this book! Rachel just can't seem to catch a break. I am glad that we finally got to know what really happened to Kisten. In this installment, Rachel is up against a being more powerful than she is but she is determined to do what she can. I thought that the narrator did a fantastic job with this book.
Book Source: Purchased/Library
I really liked this book! I am quickly discovering that I am enjoying this series more and more with each book I read. Rachel has been through a lot and at this point in the series, I am pretty invested in seeing things work out for her. Unfortunately, it seems that she just can’t catch a break so this was another installment full of excitement that made it hard to step away from the book. I am so glad that I am finally making my way through this incredibly entertaining series.
So Rachel has a few things that she needs to work out in this installment. She is still trying to learn what really happened to Kisten and she is determined to find out what it is that she can’t seem to remember regarding his death. When she hears that Glenn has been injured, she wants to find out what happened to her friend within the FIB. Before you know it she is up against an almost impossible force, a banshee. Throw in more problems with Al, a ghost from her past, and some surprises in her family and there are plenty of things to keep Rachel, Jenks, and Ivy more than a little busy.
I had no idea how Rachel would deal with everything going on in this book. I felt so frustrated for her because she is constantly putting herself at risk to protect others and society seems to want to punish her for her efforts. There were some pretty exciting scenes in this book and Rachel found herself in a heap of trouble more than once. I have a strong feeling that a lot of the things that happened in this installment will have a big impact on future books.
Marguerite Gavin was back to narrate this installment in the series. I have to admit that I was really happy to hear her version of Jenks and the rest of the gang, along with pronunciations that were consistent with the early books in the series after listening to a different narrator for the previous book. I thought that she did a fabulous job with this book and really helped to bring the story to life.
I would recommend this series to others. It is quickly becoming a favorite but I would definitely recommend that it be read in order. This was an exciting story that helped to move the series along and kept me glued to my headphones. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
Initial Thoughts
I really liked this book! Rachel just can't seem to catch a break. I am glad that we finally got to know what really happened to Kisten. In this installment, Rachel is up against a being more powerful than she is but she is determined to do what she can. I thought that the narrator did a fantastic job with this book.
Book Source: Purchased/Library
March 8, 2009
I generally like this series, but this book's ratio of ass-kicking to emotional self-indulgence was heavily weighted towards the emotional self-indulgence. I say "self-indulgence" because most of the book seemed to revolve around Rachel feeling sorry for herself and whining about how aloooooone she was because nobody understaaaaands her. The personalities of some other characters seemed to be entirely altered just to advance this agenda. That shift in how certain characters behaved, along with the fact that the plot of this book depends heavily on events that occurred in two separate short stories in two separate short story collections, plus the sudden introduction of a couple heretofore unheard-of facets of witch culture in The Hollows, made this book seem really disjointed and unconnected to the rest of the series.
I read both of the short stories that form the basis for this book's plot, but I can't say I'm wild about an author suddenly going out and making previously unconnected books part of the "canon" of the series, so that people who were not inclined to go and check out the short stories (or were not aware of them) would find themselves totally lost all of a sudden, even if they had read the whole series in order. Most of the short stories I have read by other series authors are careful to stick to plots that, while they may illuminate a bit more about a certain character, do not impinge on the over-arching story of the series. They take place on the margins of the main story; they don't directly INFLUENCE the main story. At most, you might get a throw-away line in a main book that references the events of a short story, but it's never crucial to the plot. So this move by Kim Harrison to suddenly make her previous short stories part of the main plot of the series as a whole really rubs me the wrong way. It strikes me as more of an attempt to force everyone to go out and buy copies of these two short story collections (which contain stories by other authors Harrison's readers may or may not care about) than an organic development of the series. At best, it is an exceedingly clumsy way to advance the story, and this was a pretty clumsy book. (Not only in terms of plotting, but even to the level of basic editing mistakes, like a person being described as having "thin fingers" on one page and "thick fingers" two pages later.) I only hope the next one is better, now that Harrison has shoe-horned all these new elements into the story and at least gotten that out of the way.
I read both of the short stories that form the basis for this book's plot, but I can't say I'm wild about an author suddenly going out and making previously unconnected books part of the "canon" of the series, so that people who were not inclined to go and check out the short stories (or were not aware of them) would find themselves totally lost all of a sudden, even if they had read the whole series in order. Most of the short stories I have read by other series authors are careful to stick to plots that, while they may illuminate a bit more about a certain character, do not impinge on the over-arching story of the series. They take place on the margins of the main story; they don't directly INFLUENCE the main story. At most, you might get a throw-away line in a main book that references the events of a short story, but it's never crucial to the plot. So this move by Kim Harrison to suddenly make her previous short stories part of the main plot of the series as a whole really rubs me the wrong way. It strikes me as more of an attempt to force everyone to go out and buy copies of these two short story collections (which contain stories by other authors Harrison's readers may or may not care about) than an organic development of the series. At best, it is an exceedingly clumsy way to advance the story, and this was a pretty clumsy book. (Not only in terms of plotting, but even to the level of basic editing mistakes, like a person being described as having "thin fingers" on one page and "thick fingers" two pages later.) I only hope the next one is better, now that Harrison has shoe-horned all these new elements into the story and at least gotten that out of the way.
July 26, 2016
As much as I love the action and adventure in this series, it was nice to take a slight step back and get a bit of a softer side with Rachel and her interactions with her family, specifically, her brother Robbie and her mom, who I absolutely adored.
And while this book was a touch lighter on the action side it was still packed full of emotion as Ivy and Jenks still have a mystery to solve, memories to retrieve and demons to deal with.
So very much happens in this book, heck so much has happened in this series and you can't help but want a reprieve for this group of friends but sadly, while there are some short moments of happiness, they never seem to last long for Rachel and gang.
This book was a bit bittersweet in that we finally are getting some answers to things we have been questioning for awhile now but those answers come at a cost as they always seem to for Rachel and my heart broke numerous times for her. It seems like she gets the raw end of the deal more times than ought to be necessary and yet you can't help admire her because she never lets it get her down for very long. She picks right back up and fights. She is a fighter through and through and I love her for it. She isn't one that gives up easily or who even takes the easy way out of things and I think she is what truly makes this series a great one. Between her Jenks, and Ivy, it is so very hard to resist.
I'm both excited and nervous to see where it goes from here and even a bit upset with all that transpired and hope that several wrongs will be righted and that this group of friends get their HEA by the time it is all said and done.
And while this book was a touch lighter on the action side it was still packed full of emotion as Ivy and Jenks still have a mystery to solve, memories to retrieve and demons to deal with.
So very much happens in this book, heck so much has happened in this series and you can't help but want a reprieve for this group of friends but sadly, while there are some short moments of happiness, they never seem to last long for Rachel and gang.
This book was a bit bittersweet in that we finally are getting some answers to things we have been questioning for awhile now but those answers come at a cost as they always seem to for Rachel and my heart broke numerous times for her. It seems like she gets the raw end of the deal more times than ought to be necessary and yet you can't help admire her because she never lets it get her down for very long. She picks right back up and fights. She is a fighter through and through and I love her for it. She isn't one that gives up easily or who even takes the easy way out of things and I think she is what truly makes this series a great one. Between her Jenks, and Ivy, it is so very hard to resist.
I'm both excited and nervous to see where it goes from here and even a bit upset with all that transpired and hope that several wrongs will be righted and that this group of friends get their HEA by the time it is all said and done.
March 11, 2009
I read this series because the worldbuilding is great, and the witchcraft is interesting and intricate. The author really has those things down pat. Unfortunatly, this series is kinda falling flat (for me, anyways) as it goes along. A character doesn't have to be perfect or even likeable for me to like reading about them, but Rachel is just plain annoying, and it's hard for me to have any kind of concern for the character. I am also sick to death of Ivy and the relationship angst between her and Rachel - it just goes on and on, book after book, and when you think they've got it settled...nope, we're in for another round. Figure it out or go your seperate ways already! Sheesh. I honestly wish it had been Ivy killed off instead of Kisten. At least he was interesting without annoying the heck out of me! I wonder why is Ivy even a main character in this series? She doesn't really do much for Rachel, and we have to read endlessly about how Rachel needs to be careful of this trigger, or that trigger, because Ivy's eyes are starting to dilate!!
That's the other problem with this series. I find Harrison's antagonists and minor characters much more endearing than her protagonists. Al and Trent are probably my favorite characters in the series, and unfortunatly she's turning Trent into a whimp. I also found myself much more concerned about what happened to Mia and Remus in this book than Rachel. And after following the "who murdered Kisten" drama for over 2 books the whole mystery ended in an anti-climactic fizzle.
Coming straight outta left field we had some guy/ghost named Pierce show up, with no previous mention besides a short story in an anthology (sorry, I don't read those - didn't even know about it) and suddenly he's the man Rachel's always measured men by. *rolls eyes* I don't even know what to say about that development...
This paticular book was slow on action, and high on melodrama. If you are caught up in this series I'm sure you'll be reading it, but expect a rehash of the same Rachel and Ivy drama, Rachel and Kisten drama, Rachel and Jenks drama, Jenks and Matalina drama (yes, Matalina is still dying for the third or fourth book now - like the Ivy issue Harrison is milking that for drama as long as she possibly can), Rachel and boyfriend(s) drama, Rachel and family drama, it's all here...again. Nick even gets a mention or two. This series only seems to take tiny, itty-bitty steps forward and huge steps back. I'll probably read the next one, but I'm no longer paying for these books new.
Can you tell by my ranting that I'm disappointed I'm not liking the series better? :P
That's the other problem with this series. I find Harrison's antagonists and minor characters much more endearing than her protagonists. Al and Trent are probably my favorite characters in the series, and unfortunatly she's turning Trent into a whimp. I also found myself much more concerned about what happened to Mia and Remus in this book than Rachel. And after following the "who murdered Kisten" drama for over 2 books the whole mystery ended in an anti-climactic fizzle.
Coming straight outta left field we had some guy/ghost named Pierce show up, with no previous mention besides a short story in an anthology (sorry, I don't read those - didn't even know about it) and suddenly he's the man Rachel's always measured men by. *rolls eyes* I don't even know what to say about that development...
This paticular book was slow on action, and high on melodrama. If you are caught up in this series I'm sure you'll be reading it, but expect a rehash of the same Rachel and Ivy drama, Rachel and Kisten drama, Rachel and Jenks drama, Jenks and Matalina drama (yes, Matalina is still dying for the third or fourth book now - like the Ivy issue Harrison is milking that for drama as long as she possibly can), Rachel and boyfriend(s) drama, Rachel and family drama, it's all here...again. Nick even gets a mention or two. This series only seems to take tiny, itty-bitty steps forward and huge steps back. I'll probably read the next one, but I'm no longer paying for these books new.
Can you tell by my ranting that I'm disappointed I'm not liking the series better? :P
January 21, 2016
So happy with this book. It had some frustrating moments, but in the end I liked it so much.
With all those events happening, it's one of the few series that still hold my interest, even after book 7.
So curious about #8 :)
With all those events happening, it's one of the few series that still hold my interest, even after book 7.
So curious about #8 :)
May 2, 2024
This book made me cry! Definitely one of my favorites in this series. Rachel finally remembers the night of Kisten's death, we not only meet her brother but also a ghost from her past. Much in Rachel's fashion, this book was a whirlwind of action and drama. Even being heartbroken over the death of Kisten once again, I had a great time with this book. This series just continues to get better and will always hold a special place in my heart.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2017
When I started this series, I wanted to punch Rachel in the face and tell her to listen to the people around her instead of going charging into a situation half cocked. Now, all I want to do is give her a hug and tell the others to back the hell off. Like seriously, everyone is on her case about every little thing, and I want them all to get fucked! I think this is the first time that Rachel has really showed her vulnerabilities so openly, because when you think about it, her house is full of people who can’t hold her when she is upset, help her to her feet when she is down, or even come to her rescue when she needs it. How I wanted to help her bleeding heart.
I needed someone to hold me and tell me it was going to be okay. But I was alone. Jenks couldn’t help me. Ivy couldn’t touch me. Hell, even Bis couldn’t touch me. Everyone else I had come close to was dead or not strong enough to survive the crap that my life dished out.
I was alone, just like Mia had always said, and I always would be.
Rachel is trying to trigger her memories of the night her friend was killed, wanting to take vengeance upon the vampire who almost made her a shadow and robbed her of the one person she truly loved.
In amongst all of this, Rachel has been commissioned by the FIB to find a succubus who is leaving a trail of destruction, and has a young child in her care whose power is unstoppable. After almost sucking her aura dry, Rachel has to weight up whether chasing the succubus is worth the trouble, and she actually turns her back it (for one), but of course, trouble always finds its way back to her. Dealing with a ghost in her kitchen, her demon marks, and being accepted by her family, means that Rachel pretty much has her hands full. Then Rachel goes and gets shunned. As if things couldn’t get any worse for her.
But Rachel does what she can in the moment, and she has sacrificed her own well-being to help those around her, and what does she get? Shunned, threatened with jail, and people either avoiding her or leaving her. I understood why Marshall had to leave, because it would be unfair if he dropped everything for her, and this was an actual calculated decision instead of one made for passion’s sake. I’m not too sure about Pierce, the ghost from Rachel’s past. I just don’t think they have been together that much to really make me see what he is to her and vice versa. Trent made a guest appearance, but he wasn’t really important, with Ceri and Kelsey being notably absent this time around.
I love the chemistry between the character as well, specially the main three, and despite others being introduced to the story along the way and even in this book, in the end it comes down to Rachel, Jenks, and Ivy.
I gripped the wheel of my car tighter in annoyance as Jenks continued to sing. Though the sun was going down and the roads had an arid frozenness, the interior of the care war hot. I had half a mind to turn off the heat. Anything to get Jenks to shut up.
“Five trolls in dra-a-a-a-ag,” the four-inch man sang from my shoulder. “Four purple condoms, three French ticklers, two horny vamps, and a succubus in the snow.”
“Jenks, enough!” I shouted, and from the passenger seat, Ivy snickered, idly tracing a hand on the inside of the misted window to clear a spot from which to graze out at the evening. The street was thick with holiday lights, and it was holy and serene, in a money-oriented, middle-class sort of way. Unlike Jenk’s carol. Which was thirteen-year-old humour to the max.
“On the eighth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me – ”
This series, while becoming very complex, is so intriguing. I love the characters, the plots, and really everything about this world that Kim Harrison has created. With every book it gets better and better, and I can wait to see what waits for Rachel and her friends next.
I needed someone to hold me and tell me it was going to be okay. But I was alone. Jenks couldn’t help me. Ivy couldn’t touch me. Hell, even Bis couldn’t touch me. Everyone else I had come close to was dead or not strong enough to survive the crap that my life dished out.
I was alone, just like Mia had always said, and I always would be.
Rachel is trying to trigger her memories of the night her friend was killed, wanting to take vengeance upon the vampire who almost made her a shadow and robbed her of the one person she truly loved.
In amongst all of this, Rachel has been commissioned by the FIB to find a succubus who is leaving a trail of destruction, and has a young child in her care whose power is unstoppable. After almost sucking her aura dry, Rachel has to weight up whether chasing the succubus is worth the trouble, and she actually turns her back it (for one), but of course, trouble always finds its way back to her. Dealing with a ghost in her kitchen, her demon marks, and being accepted by her family, means that Rachel pretty much has her hands full. Then Rachel goes and gets shunned. As if things couldn’t get any worse for her.
But Rachel does what she can in the moment, and she has sacrificed her own well-being to help those around her, and what does she get? Shunned, threatened with jail, and people either avoiding her or leaving her. I understood why Marshall had to leave, because it would be unfair if he dropped everything for her, and this was an actual calculated decision instead of one made for passion’s sake. I’m not too sure about Pierce, the ghost from Rachel’s past. I just don’t think they have been together that much to really make me see what he is to her and vice versa. Trent made a guest appearance, but he wasn’t really important, with Ceri and Kelsey being notably absent this time around.
I love the chemistry between the character as well, specially the main three, and despite others being introduced to the story along the way and even in this book, in the end it comes down to Rachel, Jenks, and Ivy.
I gripped the wheel of my car tighter in annoyance as Jenks continued to sing. Though the sun was going down and the roads had an arid frozenness, the interior of the care war hot. I had half a mind to turn off the heat. Anything to get Jenks to shut up.
“Five trolls in dra-a-a-a-ag,” the four-inch man sang from my shoulder. “Four purple condoms, three French ticklers, two horny vamps, and a succubus in the snow.”
“Jenks, enough!” I shouted, and from the passenger seat, Ivy snickered, idly tracing a hand on the inside of the misted window to clear a spot from which to graze out at the evening. The street was thick with holiday lights, and it was holy and serene, in a money-oriented, middle-class sort of way. Unlike Jenk’s carol. Which was thirteen-year-old humour to the max.
“On the eighth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me – ”
This series, while becoming very complex, is so intriguing. I love the characters, the plots, and really everything about this world that Kim Harrison has created. With every book it gets better and better, and I can wait to see what waits for Rachel and her friends next.
February 10, 2011
Tell the truth. Did you take the time to read all of those Hollows short stories scattered in anthologies over the past few years? If the answer is yes, you're finally getting your payoff. Just about every short story associated with the series comes into play here. And while you didn't HAVE to read them all to understand, they certainly give the reveals here something-extra for the fans who went beyond the novels.
We pick up with Rachel accepting her deal with the demon, Al, to become his student. Her friendship with fellow witch, Marshall, is deepening and looks like it may just develop into something more. Things seems to be evening out a bit, until someone attacks Glenn, a human officer and good friend to Rachel. It's quickly revealed that a banshee named Mia and her husband Remus are to blame. We met Mia back in "Undead in the Garden of Good & Evil" (Dates From Hell.) She was the person who convinced Ivy that she could change her life, be more than the monster Piscary crafted her to be. In return, Ivy gave her the wish Rachel granted her in Dead Witch Walking. And Mia used that wish to fashion herself a family.
In the meantime, Rachel finds out someone is haunting her church. Do you remember any ghosts in her past? Think back to "Two Ghosts for Sister Rachel" (Holidays Are Hell.) Yep, good old Pierce is back. And he is a welcomed sight. Especially as we see Rachel struggle to remember bits and pieces of the night Kisten died. The last book gave me a small break from the heartbreak I felt in For a Few Demons More. But it is back with a vengeance as Rachel finally remembers his sacrifice with heart-breaking clarity. And his killer? Another familiar face with a grudge set up in (you guessed it) another short story.
Rachel suffers even more hard knocks in this book. While nothing will ever touch the loss of Kisten (and believe me, she is still suffering that), the indignities and loss just keep piling on. Thank goodness for Ivy and Jenks. They are her anchors and her true family. Another great Hollows installment. But please, Kim Harrison, do you have to make me cry so much? 5 stars.
P.S. I was surprised at how many poor reviews I read here on Amazon. And I guess I can agree with those who made the point that Pierce, as the great benchmark for Rachel's love life, is a little far fetched. And while he could never replace Kisten in my heart, I did like him quite a bit in the short story. Perhaps without reading that, though, he may not have made me nearly as excited. As for Rachel's impetuousness, it doesn't strike a dark chord in me. That's simply who she is. And while she is trying to grow, she is still acting very much in character with what we've seen in past books.
We pick up with Rachel accepting her deal with the demon, Al, to become his student. Her friendship with fellow witch, Marshall, is deepening and looks like it may just develop into something more. Things seems to be evening out a bit, until someone attacks Glenn, a human officer and good friend to Rachel. It's quickly revealed that a banshee named Mia and her husband Remus are to blame. We met Mia back in "Undead in the Garden of Good & Evil" (Dates From Hell.) She was the person who convinced Ivy that she could change her life, be more than the monster Piscary crafted her to be. In return, Ivy gave her the wish Rachel granted her in Dead Witch Walking. And Mia used that wish to fashion herself a family.
In the meantime, Rachel finds out someone is haunting her church. Do you remember any ghosts in her past? Think back to "Two Ghosts for Sister Rachel" (Holidays Are Hell.) Yep, good old Pierce is back. And he is a welcomed sight. Especially as we see Rachel struggle to remember bits and pieces of the night Kisten died. The last book gave me a small break from the heartbreak I felt in For a Few Demons More. But it is back with a vengeance as Rachel finally remembers his sacrifice with heart-breaking clarity. And his killer? Another familiar face with a grudge set up in (you guessed it) another short story.
Rachel suffers even more hard knocks in this book. While nothing will ever touch the loss of Kisten (and believe me, she is still suffering that), the indignities and loss just keep piling on. Thank goodness for Ivy and Jenks. They are her anchors and her true family. Another great Hollows installment. But please, Kim Harrison, do you have to make me cry so much? 5 stars.
P.S. I was surprised at how many poor reviews I read here on Amazon. And I guess I can agree with those who made the point that Pierce, as the great benchmark for Rachel's love life, is a little far fetched. And while he could never replace Kisten in my heart, I did like him quite a bit in the short story. Perhaps without reading that, though, he may not have made me nearly as excited. As for Rachel's impetuousness, it doesn't strike a dark chord in me. That's simply who she is. And while she is trying to grow, she is still acting very much in character with what we've seen in past books.
March 5, 2009
The seventh book in the series, I found this one dragged a bit more than some of the others, although I think it ended really strong. It also tied up a number of loose ends that had been lying around, and although a few new ones were started, this had the feel of closing a major chapter or arc before beginning a new one.
This is also the first book that directly incorporates events from the novellas and short stories which have been published in anthologies (specifically Dates From Hell, Holidays Are Hell, and (I think) Hotter Than Hell), rather than just from the previous novels. Although this material is not critical for appreciating the story in this book, it does help fill in some of the back story which might otherwise seem to have come from nowhere (thus far, I've only read the story from the first of the above anthologies, but I suspect my reaction to the effect of the material in the other two will be similar).
This is also the first book that directly incorporates events from the novellas and short stories which have been published in anthologies (specifically Dates From Hell, Holidays Are Hell, and (I think) Hotter Than Hell), rather than just from the previous novels. Although this material is not critical for appreciating the story in this book, it does help fill in some of the back story which might otherwise seem to have come from nowhere (thus far, I've only read the story from the first of the above anthologies, but I suspect my reaction to the effect of the material in the other two will be similar).
June 25, 2021
5/5 ⭐️
Banshees are always a must read for me so when you add witches vamps and pixies to the mix it’s a automatic yes from me.
Banshees are always a must read for me so when you add witches vamps and pixies to the mix it’s a automatic yes from me.
February 28, 2009
Fast-paced, plot twists and witty humor, unputdownable from start to finish.
**SPOILER ALERT**THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS**
Rachel can’t take it anymore. She needs to know who killed Kisten. Her determination leads her back to the boat with her psychiatrist, Ford, who is trying to help her remember what happened that day. Ivy’s investigation is going nowhere, and Rachel is determined to get a new lead. She remembers a thing or two and can’t wait to get back to Ivy to tell her what she remembered. But as they leave the boat, Ford receives a phone call. While investigating a case on the side, Glenn was badly beaten and left for dead. And his stepfather, Captain Edden of the FIB, is asking for Vampiric Charms for help. And while she’s accused of having no crime scene etiquette, Rachel’s unconventional methods find clues that crime scene techs missed, and blows the case wide open.
For banshees are what Glenn had encountered. A human couldn’t have beaten him so badly without the use of a weapon. And to make matters worse, a banshee child is part of the case. Banshees drain energy and emotions, and if they latch on, can literally kill a person by draining their life source.
Emotions ride high as Rachel’s brother, Robbie, comes to town to visit - and brought news with him: he’s getting married.
And the roller coaster doesn’t stop there. Rachel is nearly killed more than once, a ghost named Pierce is back from her past, Al is up to his usual tricks, Ivy not only blames herself for Kisten’s death but for their new banshee problem, Rachel is being called a Black Witch and is shunned, and now her mother is moving to Portland, then her full memory of what happened on Kisten’s boat comes back. Can things get any worse?
** An emotional roller coaster to say the least.
Rachel is one hell of a character. Strong, she pushes herself to the max to do what is right, what is necessary, regardless of what happens to her. And no matter how she plans it, the repercussions come back to bite her in the ass, leaving her to defend herself, all while no one is listening.
Emotions roll right through the reader. Ms. Harrison writes it in such a way that you feel it, feel everything, that the characters feel, whether it’s guilt, desperation, determination, you feel it all.
Filled with mystery, action, suspense and emotions, White Witch, Black Curse is more than your typical roller coaster ride with characters that you love - and love to hate. Descriptions so clear and concise, you feel everything, see everything. In my opinion, her best book yet!
****And I’m going to make this interesting. Now, everyone who knows me knows I don’t buy hardcover - too expensive, and I’ve already planned on buying the paperback for my collection. However, I got this copy to read and review, along with the T-Shirt and Tomato-seed packet for the contest. I’m upping the contest. Would you like my copy of White Witch, Black Curse? Don’t forget to email me daily at [email protected] for a chance to win one of the three items up for grabs! The contest runs from now until March 31st.****
**SPOILER ALERT**THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS**
Rachel can’t take it anymore. She needs to know who killed Kisten. Her determination leads her back to the boat with her psychiatrist, Ford, who is trying to help her remember what happened that day. Ivy’s investigation is going nowhere, and Rachel is determined to get a new lead. She remembers a thing or two and can’t wait to get back to Ivy to tell her what she remembered. But as they leave the boat, Ford receives a phone call. While investigating a case on the side, Glenn was badly beaten and left for dead. And his stepfather, Captain Edden of the FIB, is asking for Vampiric Charms for help. And while she’s accused of having no crime scene etiquette, Rachel’s unconventional methods find clues that crime scene techs missed, and blows the case wide open.
For banshees are what Glenn had encountered. A human couldn’t have beaten him so badly without the use of a weapon. And to make matters worse, a banshee child is part of the case. Banshees drain energy and emotions, and if they latch on, can literally kill a person by draining their life source.
Emotions ride high as Rachel’s brother, Robbie, comes to town to visit - and brought news with him: he’s getting married.
And the roller coaster doesn’t stop there. Rachel is nearly killed more than once, a ghost named Pierce is back from her past, Al is up to his usual tricks, Ivy not only blames herself for Kisten’s death but for their new banshee problem, Rachel is being called a Black Witch and is shunned, and now her mother is moving to Portland, then her full memory of what happened on Kisten’s boat comes back. Can things get any worse?
** An emotional roller coaster to say the least.
Rachel is one hell of a character. Strong, she pushes herself to the max to do what is right, what is necessary, regardless of what happens to her. And no matter how she plans it, the repercussions come back to bite her in the ass, leaving her to defend herself, all while no one is listening.
Emotions roll right through the reader. Ms. Harrison writes it in such a way that you feel it, feel everything, that the characters feel, whether it’s guilt, desperation, determination, you feel it all.
Filled with mystery, action, suspense and emotions, White Witch, Black Curse is more than your typical roller coaster ride with characters that you love - and love to hate. Descriptions so clear and concise, you feel everything, see everything. In my opinion, her best book yet!
****And I’m going to make this interesting. Now, everyone who knows me knows I don’t buy hardcover - too expensive, and I’ve already planned on buying the paperback for my collection. However, I got this copy to read and review, along with the T-Shirt and Tomato-seed packet for the contest. I’m upping the contest. Would you like my copy of White Witch, Black Curse? Don’t forget to email me daily at [email protected] for a chance to win one of the three items up for grabs! The contest runs from now until March 31st.****
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2014
Well, every series going for this long is bound to have that one book that just isn't up to par with the rest. I'm a huge fan of The Hollows, but this was definitely the weakest installment.
Rachel's shunned, cast aside as a black which in her community. She's also focused on figuring out who killed Kisten a couple of books back. All the while, she takes on a banshee that feeds herself and child by stealing auras from people.
The resolution to Kisten's death was anti-climatic at best. I am not sure how I feel that we needed to wait two years to reach that conclusion.
There also isn't much Trent here, which was another downer for me, kind of like the 4th book where he wasn't there at all. That we get a smidgen of him helps a little. It also helped that Harrison alluded to Book 9 being a book with a lot of focus on Trent.
I don't know about anybody else, but I sort of started to like Al a bit in this book, and not in a "he's a cool villain" kind of way. There is this one scene where Kim gives the reader a bit of a reality check, and I thought it was well-placed. It keeps you grounded in understanding that while he can be plenty entertaining, he's indeed a demon.
Rachel meets up (again?) with what looks to be shaping up to be boyfriend #...Oh I've lost count now. He seems to be a figure from her past and an invisible one of her present. She's definitely plowing through them though. Failed relationship after failed relationship. Yawn. I'm not sure if I have the highest hopes for this guy, but we'll see.
Funny enough, this is the hardcover with the most pages, yet in this book there's the least amount of plot progression. Many have likened this installment to filler and I have to agree. The Hollows as a whole is my favorite series, but I definitely don't recommend starting with this book. This is really a series where you need to start from the top anyway because of the evolving plot. Unfortunately, this one isn't the best first impression because it doesn't showcase the top notch quality that this series is capable of. Though actually, this book is sort of with the first book, ranked in my bottom 3, but the first book is better than this one.
I am definitely hoping for the next book to be a bit better. I have faith that it will be.
*Review also posted to Amazon
Rachel's shunned, cast aside as a black which in her community. She's also focused on figuring out who killed Kisten a couple of books back. All the while, she takes on a banshee that feeds herself and child by stealing auras from people.
The resolution to Kisten's death was anti-climatic at best. I am not sure how I feel that we needed to wait two years to reach that conclusion.
There also isn't much Trent here, which was another downer for me, kind of like the 4th book where he wasn't there at all. That we get a smidgen of him helps a little. It also helped that Harrison alluded to Book 9 being a book with a lot of focus on Trent.
I don't know about anybody else, but I sort of started to like Al a bit in this book, and not in a "he's a cool villain" kind of way. There is this one scene where Kim gives the reader a bit of a reality check, and I thought it was well-placed. It keeps you grounded in understanding that while he can be plenty entertaining, he's indeed a demon.
Rachel meets up (again?) with what looks to be shaping up to be boyfriend #...Oh I've lost count now. He seems to be a figure from her past and an invisible one of her present. She's definitely plowing through them though. Failed relationship after failed relationship. Yawn. I'm not sure if I have the highest hopes for this guy, but we'll see.
Funny enough, this is the hardcover with the most pages, yet in this book there's the least amount of plot progression. Many have likened this installment to filler and I have to agree. The Hollows as a whole is my favorite series, but I definitely don't recommend starting with this book. This is really a series where you need to start from the top anyway because of the evolving plot. Unfortunately, this one isn't the best first impression because it doesn't showcase the top notch quality that this series is capable of. Though actually, this book is sort of with the first book, ranked in my bottom 3, but the first book is better than this one.
I am definitely hoping for the next book to be a bit better. I have faith that it will be.
*Review also posted to Amazon
May 3, 2020
2012: 4 stars
2020: 3 stars
Rachel is helping the FIB to go after an extremely dangerous banshee. She and Ivy are also trying to find out who killed Kisten. Someone from Rachel's past makes an unexpected appearance, and Al makes her life difficult.
Honestly I'm not sure why I liked this so much when I read it years ago. It was boring. All of the issues Rachel was dealing with often were forgotten about because Rachel kept focusing on the men she was interested in. I'm not sure why but it's damn hard for her to be friends with men. All it takes is for a guy to show the slightest bit of interest in her and she's totally into them. Her qualms about a possible relationship with Marshal (who is boring as hell BTW) were dragged out through the last book and all of this one. As if that wasn't bad enough another possible love interest popped up. I'm sick of reading about Rachel's self doubt and relationship issues. She needs to grow up.
Ivy had a lot of page time. She didn't annoy me too much though. Her and Rachel are much more bearable now that boundaries have been set for their relationship. I don't understand why Ivy is described as a strong badass vampire, and yet she's highly vulnerable to emotional manipulation. Once again Rachel felt bad for Ivy when Skimmer tried to force her to do something against her will, but she failed to recognize that Ivy has used the same tactics on her many times. In some ways Rachel and Ivy are perfect for each other; they both think they've got everything under control when they don't and they've got series issues with low self-esteem.
Al was the only character did anything interesting. He's still a bastard at this point, but he's definitely growing on me. Trent was barely in it which was very disappointing. I like him because he's the one guy that doesn't put up with Rachel's shit. Figuring out who killed Kisten was an afterthought for most of the book. Finally all was revealed at the end, and I am grateful this storyline can be put to rest. The killer was disappointing since it was no one of importance.
2020: 3 stars
Rachel is helping the FIB to go after an extremely dangerous banshee. She and Ivy are also trying to find out who killed Kisten. Someone from Rachel's past makes an unexpected appearance, and Al makes her life difficult.
Honestly I'm not sure why I liked this so much when I read it years ago. It was boring. All of the issues Rachel was dealing with often were forgotten about because Rachel kept focusing on the men she was interested in. I'm not sure why but it's damn hard for her to be friends with men. All it takes is for a guy to show the slightest bit of interest in her and she's totally into them. Her qualms about a possible relationship with Marshal (who is boring as hell BTW) were dragged out through the last book and all of this one. As if that wasn't bad enough another possible love interest popped up. I'm sick of reading about Rachel's self doubt and relationship issues. She needs to grow up.
Ivy had a lot of page time. She didn't annoy me too much though. Her and Rachel are much more bearable now that boundaries have been set for their relationship. I don't understand why Ivy is described as a strong badass vampire, and yet she's highly vulnerable to emotional manipulation. Once again Rachel felt bad for Ivy when Skimmer tried to force her to do something against her will, but she failed to recognize that Ivy has used the same tactics on her many times. In some ways Rachel and Ivy are perfect for each other; they both think they've got everything under control when they don't and they've got series issues with low self-esteem.
Al was the only character did anything interesting. He's still a bastard at this point, but he's definitely growing on me. Trent was barely in it which was very disappointing. I like him because he's the one guy that doesn't put up with Rachel's shit. Figuring out who killed Kisten was an afterthought for most of the book. Finally all was revealed at the end, and I am grateful this storyline can be put to rest. The killer was disappointing since it was no one of importance.
October 23, 2014
I've been reading the series since the beginning & this is book 7. It got an extra star because it is still so engaging. It's entertaining fluff & fun. Our heroine, a witch, is still trying to do right & still coming up with nothing but problems. She no sooner gets one thing settled than two others pop up. Which problems get solved & which new ones will pop up is the mystery. After 6 other books, I knew there wouldn't be a clean, happy ending. Hopefully, she'll end the series on a good note one day, but until then, there is plenty of fodder for new books.
She's had the opportunity to go the Hamilton route & bring lots of graphic sex into the story, but hasn't. I appreciate that.
Here's the books in the Rachel Morgan series:
1. Dead Witch Walking (2004)
2. The Good, the Bad, and the Undead (2005)
3. Every Which Way But Dead (2005)
4. A Fistful of Charms (2006)
5. For a Few Demons More (2007)
6. The Outlaw Demon Wails (2008)
aka Where Demons Dare
7. White Witch, Black Curse (2009)
She's had the opportunity to go the Hamilton route & bring lots of graphic sex into the story, but hasn't. I appreciate that.
Here's the books in the Rachel Morgan series:
1. Dead Witch Walking (2004)
2. The Good, the Bad, and the Undead (2005)
3. Every Which Way But Dead (2005)
4. A Fistful of Charms (2006)
5. For a Few Demons More (2007)
6. The Outlaw Demon Wails (2008)
aka Where Demons Dare
7. White Witch, Black Curse (2009)
February 2, 2015
Well this was pretty much more of the same, and by that I mean that Rachel continues to get herself into all the messes and predicaments she can come up with! And that becomes exhausting to read.
Despite that, this continues to be one of my favourite urban fantasy series, mainly because I love the Hollows world and most of itsinsane characters _I may even have started warming up to Ivy.
Despite that, I can't help wishing that the book had been about half its size.
Oh, and can't we get Rachel a therapist so that she can start dealing with her need for "Rachel candy" once and for all? o_O
We've just got ridden ourselves from Marshall!
You're telling me that in the next book, I'll have to put up with Pierce?
*sigh*
Why, why do I like you...you frustrating series!?
Despite that, this continues to be one of my favourite urban fantasy series, mainly because I love the Hollows world and most of its
Despite that, I can't help wishing that the book had been about half its size.
Oh, and can't we get Rachel a therapist so that she can start dealing with her need for "Rachel candy" once and for all? o_O
We've just got ridden ourselves from Marshall!
You're telling me that in the next book, I'll have to put up with Pierce?
*sigh*
Why, why do I like you...you frustrating series!?
April 18, 2023
This book felt like a turning point. While things are still strained between Rachel and Ivy, I like how they resolved that. In the first few books, I kept thinking they should just go one way or the other and it was getting annoying that she would keep going back and forth. But this book seems to have brought it to some sort of resolution. As much as Al is awful, I love that Rachel becomes his student in this one. She's been struggling with the whole black vs. white witch, and at this point every time she exclaims, "I'm a white witch dammit!" I just roll my eyes and think, "Methinks she doth protest too much."
I also liked that they took the time to explore the trauma that both Rachel and Ivy experienced with Kisten's loss. Lots of PTSD, memory loss (although this was helped by Jenk's charm), and flashbacks, as well as confusion as Rachel and Ivy don't quite know how to behave with each other. I liked the acknowledgment that they both loved him and while they mourned differently, they also could allow themselves and each other grace.
My enjoyment of this series continues, with this being better than the last couple.
I also liked that they took the time to explore the trauma that both Rachel and Ivy experienced with Kisten's loss. Lots of PTSD, memory loss (although this was helped by Jenk's charm), and flashbacks, as well as confusion as Rachel and Ivy don't quite know how to behave with each other. I liked the acknowledgment that they both loved him and while they mourned differently, they also could allow themselves and each other grace.
My enjoyment of this series continues, with this being better than the last couple.
February 15, 2015
Mon avis en Français
My English review
It’s been a while since I told myself that I should return to the series. Lexxie and Jessica’s reviews really made me want to go back to the stories, not that I needed that, because I really enjoyed all the novels. But it is true that with the release of the last volume, and given the great reviews, I was even more curious to get into the novels. Want to know why I did not read it sooner? Because I knew perfectly well that at the end of this book I was going to rush and order the next one. And you know what I did? Yes! Right on!
The summary does not say a lot but yet Rachel will be at the heart of many problems. She is trying first of all to live with the death of Kisten on her consciousness, something which is also very difficult to do. Indeed, the young woman is determined to understand what happened to her lover and wants to remember his last moments to find the killer. But this is not an easy thing to do. If the death of a loved one was not already difficult enough, our witch must also manage Al and the worries that come along. Her reputation as a black witch pursues her and it has many consequences on her life. Yet she does not expect that the repercussions would be that important. Some implications that could change her life. On top of that (yes, there is more), Rachel and Ivy must find a Banshee, a woman who seems to kill without remorse and whose baby also has strange abilities. But the whole thing looks much more difficult than expected and could put their life in danger many times. Anything else? Oh yes, because we will not stop there! Marshal will take an important place in the Rachel’s life and yet all could soon be in Jeopardy. Many things and it is true that I am very curious to see what will happen afterwards.
Did I forget to mention that a character introduced in a novella is being rediscovered here? I enjoyed learning more about Pierce and to understand what he was trying to do. But it’s not just him because Rachel’s brother is also present throughout the novel, and it’s true that it will not be easy for her. Judged, misunderstood, alone, nothing will be easy because she will face her brother who does not accept her lifestyle choices.
I was curious to find out the truth about the Kisten’s murder, and even if the whole process is very difficult, I admit that I was excited to discover everything. Yet it is true that I shed a few tears reading what actually happened on that boat. In any case, it was a good novel, more focused on the story surrounding our heroine that on the action but it’s really not a problem. I was curious to see if Trent would be present, if he would make an appearance, and even if he finally doesn’t have an impact on the story, I hope we’ll have the opportunity to see him a bit more in the next volume.
Rachel is changing dramatically in the novels and it’s true that she’s trying to do her best even if nothing is easy and that she does not really know how to resolve everything. But it’s certainly always interesting to follow her and see what she is going to do.
My English review
It’s been a while since I told myself that I should return to the series. Lexxie and Jessica’s reviews really made me want to go back to the stories, not that I needed that, because I really enjoyed all the novels. But it is true that with the release of the last volume, and given the great reviews, I was even more curious to get into the novels. Want to know why I did not read it sooner? Because I knew perfectly well that at the end of this book I was going to rush and order the next one. And you know what I did? Yes! Right on!
The summary does not say a lot but yet Rachel will be at the heart of many problems. She is trying first of all to live with the death of Kisten on her consciousness, something which is also very difficult to do. Indeed, the young woman is determined to understand what happened to her lover and wants to remember his last moments to find the killer. But this is not an easy thing to do. If the death of a loved one was not already difficult enough, our witch must also manage Al and the worries that come along. Her reputation as a black witch pursues her and it has many consequences on her life. Yet she does not expect that the repercussions would be that important. Some implications that could change her life. On top of that (yes, there is more), Rachel and Ivy must find a Banshee, a woman who seems to kill without remorse and whose baby also has strange abilities. But the whole thing looks much more difficult than expected and could put their life in danger many times. Anything else? Oh yes, because we will not stop there! Marshal will take an important place in the Rachel’s life and yet all could soon be in Jeopardy. Many things and it is true that I am very curious to see what will happen afterwards.
Did I forget to mention that a character introduced in a novella is being rediscovered here? I enjoyed learning more about Pierce and to understand what he was trying to do. But it’s not just him because Rachel’s brother is also present throughout the novel, and it’s true that it will not be easy for her. Judged, misunderstood, alone, nothing will be easy because she will face her brother who does not accept her lifestyle choices.
I was curious to find out the truth about the Kisten’s murder, and even if the whole process is very difficult, I admit that I was excited to discover everything. Yet it is true that I shed a few tears reading what actually happened on that boat. In any case, it was a good novel, more focused on the story surrounding our heroine that on the action but it’s really not a problem. I was curious to see if Trent would be present, if he would make an appearance, and even if he finally doesn’t have an impact on the story, I hope we’ll have the opportunity to see him a bit more in the next volume.
Rachel is changing dramatically in the novels and it’s true that she’s trying to do her best even if nothing is easy and that she does not really know how to resolve everything. But it’s certainly always interesting to follow her and see what she is going to do.
March 30, 2009
This book was a fun read like all the other hollows books. But it was rather disappointing.
In past books, the series moved onward by slowly revealing new layers and facets of the society and Rachel's situation. This book was sadly lacking in interesting details. They bring out the Banshees (a dull species worthy of Stephanie Meyer.) They solve the mystery of Kisten's death (but it was exactly what they thought it would be in the past books.) Nothing really happens with Al except he decides to leave her alone for awhile. (Ooh, that's a tense situation.) Nothing happens with Trent except that he makes a cameo and repeats what he said at the end of book 6.
The other books revolved around a clear issue that threw Rachel to the middle of a tense and perilous situation. She does not have one tense situation, but rather a handful of slightly ruffling ones. Her situations are created by the banshees (dull again), Kisten's murder (disappointingly dull), and a ghost with a dull back story.
She gets shunned. In the past, nearly every witch would mumble and move away from her because they thought she was black. In this new and shocking development.. every witch mumbles and moves away from her because they think she's black.
She does not kick anyone's butt. Her butt does not get kicked. When she almost dies it's rather dull. Nothing unexpected or interesting really happens. The new stuff isn't even interesting and it sounds like it was pulled out of the author's behind. The whole book reads like a fan fic rather than a real novel.
Book 5 was going in this direction and I was hoping that 6 was a sign that the author hadn't fallen into the pit of Series That Should Be Done Already So Shoot It And Put It Out Of Its misery. I'm just sad. It's so hard to find good fantasy books and this source has dried up.
In past books, the series moved onward by slowly revealing new layers and facets of the society and Rachel's situation. This book was sadly lacking in interesting details. They bring out the Banshees (a dull species worthy of Stephanie Meyer.) They solve the mystery of Kisten's death (but it was exactly what they thought it would be in the past books.) Nothing really happens with Al except he decides to leave her alone for awhile. (Ooh, that's a tense situation.) Nothing happens with Trent except that he makes a cameo and repeats what he said at the end of book 6.
The other books revolved around a clear issue that threw Rachel to the middle of a tense and perilous situation. She does not have one tense situation, but rather a handful of slightly ruffling ones. Her situations are created by the banshees (dull again), Kisten's murder (disappointingly dull), and a ghost with a dull back story.
She gets shunned. In the past, nearly every witch would mumble and move away from her because they thought she was black. In this new and shocking development.. every witch mumbles and moves away from her because they think she's black.
She does not kick anyone's butt. Her butt does not get kicked. When she almost dies it's rather dull. Nothing unexpected or interesting really happens. The new stuff isn't even interesting and it sounds like it was pulled out of the author's behind. The whole book reads like a fan fic rather than a real novel.
Book 5 was going in this direction and I was hoping that 6 was a sign that the author hadn't fallen into the pit of Series That Should Be Done Already So Shoot It And Put It Out Of Its misery. I'm just sad. It's so hard to find good fantasy books and this source has dried up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2013
This instalment seemed a little darker than some of the previous books in the series. What I didn't like so much is that it started a little slow and very little happened in general. Before the last third of the book I felt it somewhere below 4 stars but the last part totally made up for a solid 4 stars read.
In White Witch, Black Curse Rachel is mostly in a state of personal gloom. She needs to find , to tag down a banshee who thinks she rules the world, to deal with a friend/possible boyfriend(of course :)) and to take care of Al's last manifestation ;).
I liked the banshee story and I'm eager for the next book where Mia will be the major antagonist. I'm also happy that . Although this plot ended a little bit anticlimactic it was very emotional. I loved how Rachel/Ivy relationship got stronger through this.
And if you took the time to read all of those Hollows short stories it's worth it for this book. Just about every short story associated with the series comes into play here. And I like that a lot. Especially the parts with Pierce. But this parts were just a few. I want more of him and also more of Al and the other demons and Trent. That's why I like the end so very much! Another presence I enjoyed was Ford. He is a very interesting character.
I look forward to book 8.
Audio Note: I can't describe how happy I am that Marguerite Gavin is back for this instalment and for all the next books!
In White Witch, Black Curse Rachel is mostly in a state of personal gloom. She needs to find , to tag down a banshee who thinks she rules the world, to deal with a friend/possible boyfriend(of course :)) and to take care of Al's last manifestation ;).
I liked the banshee story and I'm eager for the next book where Mia will be the major antagonist. I'm also happy that . Although this plot ended a little bit anticlimactic it was very emotional. I loved how Rachel/Ivy relationship got stronger through this.
And if you took the time to read all of those Hollows short stories it's worth it for this book. Just about every short story associated with the series comes into play here. And I like that a lot. Especially the parts with Pierce. But this parts were just a few. I want more of him and also more of Al and the other demons and Trent. That's why I like the end so very much! Another presence I enjoyed was Ford. He is a very interesting character.
I look forward to book 8.
Audio Note: I can't describe how happy I am that Marguerite Gavin is back for this instalment and for all the next books!
January 20, 2018
3 1/2 stars
So Rachel has been getting on my nerves lately. This girl just has waaaaay to much drama and the stuff with guys in her life is a bit ridiculous but I’m also still upset about the whole Kistan thing. So it was like rubbing salt in a wound when all they did was talk about Kistan in this book and then when Rachel finally remembered the memory she had spelled to forget, that just gutted me and is not helping me move on with this new story plot!
I will still press on though.
So Rachel has been getting on my nerves lately. This girl just has waaaaay to much drama and the stuff with guys in her life is a bit ridiculous but I’m also still upset about the whole Kistan thing. So it was like rubbing salt in a wound when all they did was talk about Kistan in this book and then when Rachel finally remembered the memory she had spelled to forget, that just gutted me and is not helping me move on with this new story plot!
I will still press on though.
August 19, 2016
I couldn't really remember any of this book at all so it was quite like reading it for the first time. As usual, I was hooked with the adventures of Rachel and co. The ending was utterly heartbreaking, and I was devastated for Rachel and Ivy, though at least they got some closure. Re-reading this series has been such fun, I'm both anticipating and dreading getting to the end.
July 27, 2020
Meh!
I get so tired of Rachel’s woe as me attitude. It’s all Kisten Kisten Kisten in this one and I’m so sad. The out of nowhere she goes too far with Marshall, has a weird thing with Ivy and introduces yet another terrible love choice interest in Pierce.
Overall it’s still an okay read but I need a break for now.
I get so tired of Rachel’s woe as me attitude. It’s all Kisten Kisten Kisten in this one and I’m so sad. The out of nowhere she goes too far with Marshall, has a weird thing with Ivy and introduces yet another terrible love choice interest in Pierce.
Overall it’s still an okay read but I need a break for now.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,334 reviews