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Jane True #2
Tracking the Tempest
Tracking the Tempest begins four months–and one eyebrow sacrificed to magical training–after the close of Tempest Rising. During that time, Jane’s been busy honing her supernatural powers and enjoying her newfound sense of confidence. Rockabill may not yet be heaven, but she’s realized it’s home. Valentine's Day is fast approaching, and Ryu - Jane's bloodsucking boyfriend - can't let a major holiday go by without getting all gratuitous. An overwhelming dose of boyfriend interference and a last-minute ticket to Boston later, and Jane's life is thrown off course.
But Ryu’s best laid plans inevitably create more upheaval than even he can anticipate, and Jane winds up embroiled in an investigation involving a spree of gruesome killings committed by a being of tremendous power . . .
. . . who, much to Jane’s surprise, happens to be another halfling.
350 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 16, 2010
50 people are currently reading
1710 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Peeler
18books1,148followersNicole D. Peeler is an essayist and novelist, as well as an associate professor at Seton Hill University, where she directs their MFA in Writing Popular Fiction. Find out more at , or sign up for her free newsletter at .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 316 reviews
July 18, 2011
4.5 stars.
Someone should inform Nicole Peeler that she simply cannot create female protagonists who are highly intelligent, self-sufficient, a little insecure, brave (but not stupidly rushing into things) and funny (but without the excessive sarcasm). We, humble UF addicts, are not used to that kind of thing. Someone should definitely inform her, but not me. I LOVED IT! Jane actually reminded me of... me! And my friends. She falls in high heels, she embarasses herself on dates, and when a fight starts, she runs like hell. She's Jane True, not Rambo!!
Jane is different from every other heroine out there. I’ve noticed that many people compare her to Sookie Stackhouse, but I don’t see any similarities. Let’s get something straight: I love the Sookie Stackhouse series, but I don’t like Sookie AT ALL. Jane, on the other hand, I simply adore. She doesn’t spend half the book trying to figure out what she is, and the other half accepting it. Instead, she instantly embraces the truth and tries to deal with it in every way that she can. When she’s stressed out, she has to pee, even if she IS running away from a kidnapper. And when it turns out that a seemingly perfect guy wants completely different things, she actually leaves! Who wouldn’t love her?
Besides, Nicole Peeler somehow managed to avoid all predictability. For the first time since I started reading UF, I actually didn’t know what was about to happen. I had no clue. Not even once. She somehow bypassed most of the usual formulas and wrote something different and new.
The first book is probably the weakest link in the series, but the second one is so amazing that I can’t even begin to describe it. This series has quickly become one of my favorites, right up there with the Kate Daniels series and the Mercy Thompson series.
It was very difficult to choose a favorite quote, but here’s one of the funniest moments:
”Um, Anyan?�
Ԩ?�
“Is there a bathroom?�
The barghest stopped. “What?�
“Is there a bathroom? I really have to pee.�
“You have got to be kidding me,� Anyan said, swinging around to stare at me like I was crazy.
“No, I’m not. I really have to pee. I drank, like, a whole liter of water, and when I get stressed, I always need to pee. Getting kidnapped is stressful. Really, really stressful.�
Anyan shook is head. “Jane, I don’t even know where to begin. I’m trying to rescue you from a psychotic serial killer who is apparently intent on impregnating you. And you want to take a potty break.�
“I really have to go.�
The barghest closed his eyes, mumbling something to himself. I think he was counting to ten.
Someone should inform Nicole Peeler that she simply cannot create female protagonists who are highly intelligent, self-sufficient, a little insecure, brave (but not stupidly rushing into things) and funny (but without the excessive sarcasm). We, humble UF addicts, are not used to that kind of thing. Someone should definitely inform her, but not me. I LOVED IT! Jane actually reminded me of... me! And my friends. She falls in high heels, she embarasses herself on dates, and when a fight starts, she runs like hell. She's Jane True, not Rambo!!
Jane is different from every other heroine out there. I’ve noticed that many people compare her to Sookie Stackhouse, but I don’t see any similarities. Let’s get something straight: I love the Sookie Stackhouse series, but I don’t like Sookie AT ALL. Jane, on the other hand, I simply adore. She doesn’t spend half the book trying to figure out what she is, and the other half accepting it. Instead, she instantly embraces the truth and tries to deal with it in every way that she can. When she’s stressed out, she has to pee, even if she IS running away from a kidnapper. And when it turns out that a seemingly perfect guy wants completely different things, she actually leaves! Who wouldn’t love her?
Besides, Nicole Peeler somehow managed to avoid all predictability. For the first time since I started reading UF, I actually didn’t know what was about to happen. I had no clue. Not even once. She somehow bypassed most of the usual formulas and wrote something different and new.
The first book is probably the weakest link in the series, but the second one is so amazing that I can’t even begin to describe it. This series has quickly become one of my favorites, right up there with the Kate Daniels series and the Mercy Thompson series.
It was very difficult to choose a favorite quote, but here’s one of the funniest moments:
”Um, Anyan?�
Ԩ?�
“Is there a bathroom?�
The barghest stopped. “What?�
“Is there a bathroom? I really have to pee.�
“You have got to be kidding me,� Anyan said, swinging around to stare at me like I was crazy.
“No, I’m not. I really have to pee. I drank, like, a whole liter of water, and when I get stressed, I always need to pee. Getting kidnapped is stressful. Really, really stressful.�
Anyan shook is head. “Jane, I don’t even know where to begin. I’m trying to rescue you from a psychotic serial killer who is apparently intent on impregnating you. And you want to take a potty break.�
“I really have to go.�
The barghest closed his eyes, mumbling something to himself. I think he was counting to ten.
December 11, 2020
Jane True is back with another first-person narration, full of action and liberally sprinkled with humor. It's four months after the events of , and she's engaged with even more species of supernaturals than she was in that book (but no nagas this time). Right in the first chapter of this one we get a kelpie in her "weird sea-pony" form, a grandmotherly gnome who runs things locally in Rockabill, and a friendly succubus from nearby Eastport, Maine, to say nothing of musings about Jane's lover Ryu and the Basic Problem in their romance.
You see, Ryu (whose legal name is Ryu T. Tootie, adopted 20 years ago when he lost a bet) is a baobhan sith (Peeler says pronounce it "baa-van shee"), the species at the origin of vampire legends. He has to feed on humans to survive, but he doesn't take much blood at a time--what he needs is the emotional energy that comes with their blood, and it has to come in one of two ways. Jane is appropriately grateful that he's not one of the baobhan siths who frighten their human source, but that means he's the kind who has to get them sexually aroused.
That's fine for Jane when Ryu comes to Rockabill, but he's a supernatural detective based in Boston, where most of this adventure takes place (with a few scenes in Maine and a side trip to Vermont). So when she's not visiting him there in Boston, well...she just has to be understanding and accept that he really loves her, not those other women he feeds from.
But this is also a shaggy dog story. Enter Anyan, a huge friendly dog who's been very protective of Jane since she was a baby. In the first book he surprised Jane by talking to her for the first time. She learned from Nell (the two-foot tall gnome) that Anyan is a barghest, and that species is the source of, you guessed it, all those legends about werewolves--people who turn at will into animals much bigger and stronger than a natural wolf, or lion or whatever. Hello! Anyan, the dog she hugs and cuddles, spends most of this novel in his other form as a big strong man. And he's in charge of her magic training. And he's just as protective as ever when she gets into danger over and over.
Triangle, anyone? Well, not yet. Just like the debut, this book offers us a supernatural murder mystery and a suspenseful adventure with a couple dozen fascinating characters (of different supernatural species, remember; there are humans too but most of them die horribly). An ifrit halfling whose fire magic burned down a building causing many deaths when he was still a baby is now on a rampage and he's obsessed with Jane (big ouch coming), and there's also a very nasty S&M incubus who's into Jane too (big ouch number two).
Remember, Jane herself is half human, half selkie--she doesn't turn into a seal but she has to swim in the ocean (or at least the Charles River, a poor substitute I'd say) to get her strength back. I explained about Jane and her home town of Rockabill in my review of the first book, so I'll just refer you to that here: /review/show.... In this book we learn a great deal more about her special relationship with water and what she can do with it.
Jane plays a big role in solving the mystery and Ryu, Anyan, and several others bring the action to a wild climax, and then the book just goes on for 24 more pages with Jane and Ryu working on their relationship. You know, the Basic Problem I told you about. I will admit that Jane is a good deal more mature about it than I expected, but after so much exciting, fast-paced, action-packed reading it was disconcerting to slog through prose that could have been distributed here and there through the story.
Besides that editing problem, Jane, whom I really like, gets hurt again and again, and some of the deaths are hard for this reader to accept. The solution to the mystery was partly predictable, but there was still a pair of surprises. And this is clearly an early installment in an on-going story--the plot will only thicken from here on. So let's say once again, 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
You see, Ryu (whose legal name is Ryu T. Tootie, adopted 20 years ago when he lost a bet) is a baobhan sith (Peeler says pronounce it "baa-van shee"), the species at the origin of vampire legends. He has to feed on humans to survive, but he doesn't take much blood at a time--what he needs is the emotional energy that comes with their blood, and it has to come in one of two ways. Jane is appropriately grateful that he's not one of the baobhan siths who frighten their human source, but that means he's the kind who has to get them sexually aroused.
That's fine for Jane when Ryu comes to Rockabill, but he's a supernatural detective based in Boston, where most of this adventure takes place (with a few scenes in Maine and a side trip to Vermont). So when she's not visiting him there in Boston, well...she just has to be understanding and accept that he really loves her, not those other women he feeds from.
But this is also a shaggy dog story. Enter Anyan, a huge friendly dog who's been very protective of Jane since she was a baby. In the first book he surprised Jane by talking to her for the first time. She learned from Nell (the two-foot tall gnome) that Anyan is a barghest, and that species is the source of, you guessed it, all those legends about werewolves--people who turn at will into animals much bigger and stronger than a natural wolf, or lion or whatever. Hello! Anyan, the dog she hugs and cuddles, spends most of this novel in his other form as a big strong man. And he's in charge of her magic training. And he's just as protective as ever when she gets into danger over and over.
Triangle, anyone? Well, not yet. Just like the debut, this book offers us a supernatural murder mystery and a suspenseful adventure with a couple dozen fascinating characters (of different supernatural species, remember; there are humans too but most of them die horribly). An ifrit halfling whose fire magic burned down a building causing many deaths when he was still a baby is now on a rampage and he's obsessed with Jane (big ouch coming), and there's also a very nasty S&M incubus who's into Jane too (big ouch number two).
Remember, Jane herself is half human, half selkie--she doesn't turn into a seal but she has to swim in the ocean (or at least the Charles River, a poor substitute I'd say) to get her strength back. I explained about Jane and her home town of Rockabill in my review of the first book, so I'll just refer you to that here: /review/show.... In this book we learn a great deal more about her special relationship with water and what she can do with it.
Jane plays a big role in solving the mystery and Ryu, Anyan, and several others bring the action to a wild climax, and then the book just goes on for 24 more pages with Jane and Ryu working on their relationship. You know, the Basic Problem I told you about. I will admit that Jane is a good deal more mature about it than I expected, but after so much exciting, fast-paced, action-packed reading it was disconcerting to slog through prose that could have been distributed here and there through the story.
Besides that editing problem, Jane, whom I really like, gets hurt again and again, and some of the deaths are hard for this reader to accept. The solution to the mystery was partly predictable, but there was still a pair of surprises. And this is clearly an early installment in an on-going story--the plot will only thicken from here on. So let's say once again, 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
November 15, 2015
I definitely didn't like this one as much as the first and for one reason and one reason alone: the romance. Or whatever you want to call it. The drama between Jane and Ryu encompassed almost the entire novel and I thought it was a bit much.
Ryu second-guessing Jane and treating her like a child and just being an all-around prick was driving me NUTS. I haven’t cared for Ryu from the very beginning, he’s too cocky, he doesn’t seem to really care about Jane (although vice versa too.. Jane doesn’t appear to be in it for the long run either) he’s just always been a bit ‘off� to me. And then telling her to stay home like a good girl? My eyes practically bulged out of my head and I proceeded to try and mentally manipulate the story so that I could kick his ass through Jane. Yes, I was that pissed (and delusional). Suffice it to say I was ecstatic when she kicked him to the curb. Although I still don’t understand what took her so long, she was obviously having a lot of internal conflict about their whole situation for a while.
'I gotta admit, it felt really fucking good.
But I'd never felt so much like a goddamned granola bar in my entire life.'
If your boyfriend makes you feel like food...warning!
I loved how this book held the same sense of humor from the first and Jane’s internal dialogue, although not as prevalent, was still there to an extent. Still definitely a great series that I’ll be continuing shortly. :)
Ryu second-guessing Jane and treating her like a child and just being an all-around prick was driving me NUTS. I haven’t cared for Ryu from the very beginning, he’s too cocky, he doesn’t seem to really care about Jane (although vice versa too.. Jane doesn’t appear to be in it for the long run either) he’s just always been a bit ‘off� to me. And then telling her to stay home like a good girl? My eyes practically bulged out of my head and I proceeded to try and mentally manipulate the story so that I could kick his ass through Jane. Yes, I was that pissed (and delusional). Suffice it to say I was ecstatic when she kicked him to the curb. Although I still don’t understand what took her so long, she was obviously having a lot of internal conflict about their whole situation for a while.
'I gotta admit, it felt really fucking good.
But I'd never felt so much like a goddamned granola bar in my entire life.'
If your boyfriend makes you feel like food...warning!
I loved how this book held the same sense of humor from the first and Jane’s internal dialogue, although not as prevalent, was still there to an extent. Still definitely a great series that I’ll be continuing shortly. :)
July 19, 2010
This is more like 2.5 stars verging on 3 but it didn't win me over as much as the 1st book.
I don't know if there are only 3 books contracted - maybe this is why it felt a bit forced (esp. The love triangle aspect) but it was only OK for me. It did get better at the end though. The last 20-30% of the book had me buying into it more (esp. Jane herself).
I like Peeler & think she has talent & want to read more from her, this just felt a bit disjointed or rather - Jane seemed really ...I couldn't get a lock on her personality so a lot of things didn't ring true. I hoping it's a case of growing pains.
Premise; it's been 4 months, Jane has been training but it seems like she is taking baby steps. Her relationship w/Ryu is on but long distance. He invites her for a romantic weekend in Boston & needless to say � hijinks ensue & Jane is in tow trying to help Ryu & crew figure out who is behind a bunch of murders etc..
SPOILERS BELOW:
So the plot was pretty predictable. As soon as the baddies appear on page you know they’re behind it & you can figure out why based on the last book. So that was pretty underwhelming. Although I am hoping it runs deeper & that NP is going to reveal something having to do w/Grizzie. We have her back story given to Jane & later see her in a pic at a hospital that is the scene of some nasty halfling experiments.
Jane’s quippy comebacks, banter & cultural references didn’t seem as natural in delivery as they did in the 1st book. I felt Peeler was trying too hard.
But what really got me was the love triangle & how it’s being executed.
So, it's been pretty obvious since book 1 that NP was gonna do the love triangle & that she is rooting for (so wants us to root for) the underdog (har har) - Anyan.
However - I felt practically throughout the whole thing that she was super forcing that preference (& so making it easy for the reader) by really pushing Ryu to come across smarmy, insincere & unlikable. As a reader, I just felt spoon fed.
I couldn't understand what was with with all of those cheesy terms of endearment that sounded so disingenuous & were being used in practically every sentence of dialog between Jane & Ryu. "Babe" this, "honey" that, "Baby" this & "sweetheart" that? Considering Jane isn’t even sure how she feels & that was obvious, it came across cheesy to me b’c Jane seemed just as insincere as Peeler was trying to portray Ryu. I found it precocious.
Although Peeler did chill a bit on that at the end of the book which I liked a lot. At least she had him own the fact that he was being a dick. So I'm hoping she makes it a lot harder to choose than it appears for most of the book.
It’s just a personal thing but I would love a freakin' book not to villainize one of the love triangle choices for once (It’s not always, but it’s rare). It'd be a bit more refreshing for the choice to come down to an MC knowing what is best for her/ her life & therefore who is best as a result, rather then one of the people being an asshole thereby, making too easy for everyone all around.
I guess I just hope NP makes it a lot harder to choose b’c I can see the material (& her talent) lending itself to being this way instead of the traditional route most triangle’s take.
I did get glimpses of that at the end of this book - when Ryu called Jane & they talked about what happened. I appreciated that so much more than what was going down previous to this moment.
B'c like I said � previous to this, it all felt forced.
Also out of out of left in field in many ways. The whole "be a good girl" line Ryu patronized Jane with...this is one moment where I felt spoon fed b’c it was pretty obvious we were supposed to just as indignant as Jane over the fact he is patronizing.
At the end of the day, I felt NP did better in the 1st book with him. It was more subtle - you wanna like him but there was something where you're left on guard. I was looking forward more to trying to figure it out on my own more so yeah, I was disappointed.
Another bit that I just felt not only was it too obvious in trying to put Ryu out to pasture but also � if you think about it, is kinda lame reasoning for not liking him, was Ryu not taking Jane’s input seriously when she comes up w/a completely valid scenario for the case he’s working on.
Ryu is supposed to be this uber detective & yet Jane has to piece the big mystery together or give them their big lead?
On the one hand, I’m supposed to buy the fact that Ryu is great at his job, been doing it for ages & high up the chain of command (he’s the boss of his own unit) & takes his job very seriously.
On the other hand, I’m supposed to buy the fact that b’c he’s borderline chauvinist/egoist, he can’t see the forest for the trees b’c the best ideas come from Jane & he doesn't wanna listen so minimizes her.
It just didn’t take for me as a concept b’c in my head - any detective doing this job for however many decades should be worth their salt & open to any & all theories, esp. if they're even the least bit tangible (& Jane's reasoning's were). Doubly, so if the leads they'd come against so far has resulted in crap & they can't seem to get a handle on anything.
That to me would signify a necessity for out of the box thinking no matter what.
So by the end I felt that Jane’s growth was really at the expense of Ryu (who had previously been established as extremely capable, intelligent & encouraging) & so it came across as a transparent tactic for someone w/Peeler’s potential. I think the love triangle push for Anyan could have been executed w/out having to make Ryu look like an arrogant ass who lets his ego get in the way of doing his job.
So yeah, these are some of the main reasons it felt disjointed & untrue for me.
I did love the scene with the hairdresser. Made me laugh out loud numerous times. It was truly, truly hilarious & all very organic in it’s delivery so it was genuinely charming. When Peeler is on, is is spot on & seems to have a knack for seamlessly delivering the humor when she is not forcing the issue.
The action sequence at the end starting with/Conleth's kidnapping was pretty cool. Although I think Jane’s power was fairly rushed considering where she started but I bought it b’c we were prepped that it was there, just latent & Jane needed to find her focus.
Also Jane at the end of the book was more in keeping with the character I was growing to like in book 1. Although I know characters evolve, there are fundamental's that are always there. I saw that more towards the end so I hope that her evolution will be a bit more fluid.
So with all that being said, I am still rooting for Peeler, look forward to her hitting her stride & will hang in to read the next book for sure.
I don't know if there are only 3 books contracted - maybe this is why it felt a bit forced (esp. The love triangle aspect) but it was only OK for me. It did get better at the end though. The last 20-30% of the book had me buying into it more (esp. Jane herself).
I like Peeler & think she has talent & want to read more from her, this just felt a bit disjointed or rather - Jane seemed really ...I couldn't get a lock on her personality so a lot of things didn't ring true. I hoping it's a case of growing pains.
Premise; it's been 4 months, Jane has been training but it seems like she is taking baby steps. Her relationship w/Ryu is on but long distance. He invites her for a romantic weekend in Boston & needless to say � hijinks ensue & Jane is in tow trying to help Ryu & crew figure out who is behind a bunch of murders etc..
SPOILERS BELOW:
So the plot was pretty predictable. As soon as the baddies appear on page you know they’re behind it & you can figure out why based on the last book. So that was pretty underwhelming. Although I am hoping it runs deeper & that NP is going to reveal something having to do w/Grizzie. We have her back story given to Jane & later see her in a pic at a hospital that is the scene of some nasty halfling experiments.
Jane’s quippy comebacks, banter & cultural references didn’t seem as natural in delivery as they did in the 1st book. I felt Peeler was trying too hard.
But what really got me was the love triangle & how it’s being executed.
So, it's been pretty obvious since book 1 that NP was gonna do the love triangle & that she is rooting for (so wants us to root for) the underdog (har har) - Anyan.
However - I felt practically throughout the whole thing that she was super forcing that preference (& so making it easy for the reader) by really pushing Ryu to come across smarmy, insincere & unlikable. As a reader, I just felt spoon fed.
I couldn't understand what was with with all of those cheesy terms of endearment that sounded so disingenuous & were being used in practically every sentence of dialog between Jane & Ryu. "Babe" this, "honey" that, "Baby" this & "sweetheart" that? Considering Jane isn’t even sure how she feels & that was obvious, it came across cheesy to me b’c Jane seemed just as insincere as Peeler was trying to portray Ryu. I found it precocious.
Although Peeler did chill a bit on that at the end of the book which I liked a lot. At least she had him own the fact that he was being a dick. So I'm hoping she makes it a lot harder to choose than it appears for most of the book.
It’s just a personal thing but I would love a freakin' book not to villainize one of the love triangle choices for once (It’s not always, but it’s rare). It'd be a bit more refreshing for the choice to come down to an MC knowing what is best for her/ her life & therefore who is best as a result, rather then one of the people being an asshole thereby, making too easy for everyone all around.
I guess I just hope NP makes it a lot harder to choose b’c I can see the material (& her talent) lending itself to being this way instead of the traditional route most triangle’s take.
I did get glimpses of that at the end of this book - when Ryu called Jane & they talked about what happened. I appreciated that so much more than what was going down previous to this moment.
B'c like I said � previous to this, it all felt forced.
Also out of out of left in field in many ways. The whole "be a good girl" line Ryu patronized Jane with...this is one moment where I felt spoon fed b’c it was pretty obvious we were supposed to just as indignant as Jane over the fact he is patronizing.
At the end of the day, I felt NP did better in the 1st book with him. It was more subtle - you wanna like him but there was something where you're left on guard. I was looking forward more to trying to figure it out on my own more so yeah, I was disappointed.
Another bit that I just felt not only was it too obvious in trying to put Ryu out to pasture but also � if you think about it, is kinda lame reasoning for not liking him, was Ryu not taking Jane’s input seriously when she comes up w/a completely valid scenario for the case he’s working on.
Ryu is supposed to be this uber detective & yet Jane has to piece the big mystery together or give them their big lead?
On the one hand, I’m supposed to buy the fact that Ryu is great at his job, been doing it for ages & high up the chain of command (he’s the boss of his own unit) & takes his job very seriously.
On the other hand, I’m supposed to buy the fact that b’c he’s borderline chauvinist/egoist, he can’t see the forest for the trees b’c the best ideas come from Jane & he doesn't wanna listen so minimizes her.
It just didn’t take for me as a concept b’c in my head - any detective doing this job for however many decades should be worth their salt & open to any & all theories, esp. if they're even the least bit tangible (& Jane's reasoning's were). Doubly, so if the leads they'd come against so far has resulted in crap & they can't seem to get a handle on anything.
That to me would signify a necessity for out of the box thinking no matter what.
So by the end I felt that Jane’s growth was really at the expense of Ryu (who had previously been established as extremely capable, intelligent & encouraging) & so it came across as a transparent tactic for someone w/Peeler’s potential. I think the love triangle push for Anyan could have been executed w/out having to make Ryu look like an arrogant ass who lets his ego get in the way of doing his job.
So yeah, these are some of the main reasons it felt disjointed & untrue for me.
I did love the scene with the hairdresser. Made me laugh out loud numerous times. It was truly, truly hilarious & all very organic in it’s delivery so it was genuinely charming. When Peeler is on, is is spot on & seems to have a knack for seamlessly delivering the humor when she is not forcing the issue.
The action sequence at the end starting with/Conleth's kidnapping was pretty cool. Although I think Jane’s power was fairly rushed considering where she started but I bought it b’c we were prepped that it was there, just latent & Jane needed to find her focus.
Also Jane at the end of the book was more in keeping with the character I was growing to like in book 1. Although I know characters evolve, there are fundamental's that are always there. I saw that more towards the end so I hope that her evolution will be a bit more fluid.
So with all that being said, I am still rooting for Peeler, look forward to her hitting her stride & will hang in to read the next book for sure.
February 24, 2022
� � � �
No spoilers and colorful language abound!
2022: Um. Some things didn’t age well here, outdated and offensive terms used etc. I read this 8 years ago and still here for it.
Tempest Rising (Jane True, #1)
This is exactly what I want to be reading right now. Do you know how rare that is? To randomly stumble upon a book series that is perfectly tuned into your headspace and suddenly you are all "screw your TBR shelf, I'mma crawl into this world and stay here". Alright, I didn't really get down to it in the first book review because I was busy having a feminist rant so let's try again.
I straight up like Jane True. She's a halfling; half-human + half-selkie, she is loyal and sincere, a little awkward and corny as fuck, she also has a thing for man nipples and makes no apologies. She has little chats with her libido and embraces all the things that make her, her . She is refreshing, it is so fucking nice to read an MC who doesn't hate herself.
I will not get caught up in feminist rant 2.0. I will not.
I enjoyed the transition between the first and the second book, speaking mainly to the point that Peeler found her formula, and I like it. A lot of what is happening is fairly predictable but I don't even mind. When it's done right, it's enjoyable and that's that. I'm particularly enjoying seeing Jane's growth, personally and magically. She's unwaveringly honest with herself, and that really comes to the surface in this installment. The cast of supporting characters are absolutely fantastic and I have a hard time trying to decide who is my favorite. Basically, they all make me feel like this:
I do this every time I have an entire series on my Kindle. I finish a book and immediately start the next one and forget what the hell I wanted to say in the review! I guess I'll let that statement speak for itself, it's just a good time.
No spoilers and colorful language abound!
2022: Um. Some things didn’t age well here, outdated and offensive terms used etc. I read this 8 years ago and still here for it.
Tempest Rising (Jane True, #1)
This is exactly what I want to be reading right now. Do you know how rare that is? To randomly stumble upon a book series that is perfectly tuned into your headspace and suddenly you are all "screw your TBR shelf, I'mma crawl into this world and stay here". Alright, I didn't really get down to it in the first book review because I was busy having a feminist rant so let's try again.
I straight up like Jane True. She's a halfling; half-human + half-selkie, she is loyal and sincere, a little awkward and corny as fuck, she also has a thing for man nipples and makes no apologies. She has little chats with her libido and embraces all the things that make her, her . She is refreshing, it is so fucking nice to read an MC who doesn't hate herself.
I will not get caught up in feminist rant 2.0. I will not.
I enjoyed the transition between the first and the second book, speaking mainly to the point that Peeler found her formula, and I like it. A lot of what is happening is fairly predictable but I don't even mind. When it's done right, it's enjoyable and that's that. I'm particularly enjoying seeing Jane's growth, personally and magically. She's unwaveringly honest with herself, and that really comes to the surface in this installment. The cast of supporting characters are absolutely fantastic and I have a hard time trying to decide who is my favorite. Basically, they all make me feel like this:
I do this every time I have an entire series on my Kindle. I finish a book and immediately start the next one and forget what the hell I wanted to say in the review! I guess I'll let that statement speak for itself, it's just a good time.
November 30, 2011
I am officially in love with this series. And Jane True -- I am seriously, completely in love with her too. She is utterly believable as a woman who finds herself immersed in the new and strange world of the supernatural. Someone who has been isolated and alone... now finding herself in a relationship with a sexy and attentive new lover. She is funny and smart and really makes this series a captivating read.
This installment picks up a few months after the where the last one left off. Jane and Ryu are still seeing each other, but living apart. She goes to visit him in Boston for Valentine's Day and ends up in the center of his investigation of a halfling infirit who has gone on a killing spree. The halfling takes a shining to Jane, which is the first complication. The second, comes when some of Jarl's henchmen insinuate themselves onto the case. There is great action, murder and mayhem in the backdrop of fantastic character growth.
We're introduced to a wealth of great new secondary characters in Ryu's crew. But once again, Anyan totally steals the show. (Wake up, Jane!!! He is the man for you!!!) There is so much going on between him and Jane just under the radar... they had me on the edge of my seat. This is quickly becoming one of my favorite series. Almost 5 stars.
This installment picks up a few months after the where the last one left off. Jane and Ryu are still seeing each other, but living apart. She goes to visit him in Boston for Valentine's Day and ends up in the center of his investigation of a halfling infirit who has gone on a killing spree. The halfling takes a shining to Jane, which is the first complication. The second, comes when some of Jarl's henchmen insinuate themselves onto the case. There is great action, murder and mayhem in the backdrop of fantastic character growth.
We're introduced to a wealth of great new secondary characters in Ryu's crew. But once again, Anyan totally steals the show. (Wake up, Jane!!! He is the man for you!!!) There is so much going on between him and Jane just under the radar... they had me on the edge of my seat. This is quickly becoming one of my favorite series. Almost 5 stars.
July 29, 2011
I'm already halfway through the third installment while writing this review so I'll just make some quick considerations and go back to and my work in progress.
Strong points:
-This series is seriously addictive. Considering three books are already published and the fourth is coming out soon, I just could not let the next book be. I have to know what happens. Especially in the romance department, I think all readers who, like me, have gone through this series, at this point were just waiting for the serious hooking up to happen.
-I just love the sense of humor and the pop culture references in this book. I am aware many people might find it idiotic but then shut this book and go read for god's sake. This is, as I already said in my previous review of this series, Urban Fantasy that actually makes fun of its own clichés and doesn't take itself too seriously.
-Jane is a great character. I love the way she doesn't know what she is doing most of the time ("I've always been of the turn tail and flee persuasion"), how she is easily sidetracked by her own romantic thoughts and libido ("I wanted to pass Iris notes signed Jane Barghest. I wanted to write ANYAN LOVES JANE on my geography book, if I were still in geography classes. I wanted to play MASH with him as my only "husband" option".) but I also love how her character is developing or to use her words once more "I still had a lot to learn, but I was really, really excited to grow into the woman I glimpsed lurking on the horizon"
And then this gem I can't help but quote:
"The thing is Iris, I've never liked the idea of compromise. In films and in stories, people who love each other - really love each other - make horrendous sacrifices. They give kidneys, they move across the world, they DIE. Or become the undead, because you know I like that sort of book. Basically, the heroine's lover calls, and she answers. Which is stupid. You know why?
Iris shook her head.
"Because he's always fucking calling."
Weak points:
-The romance, which is also strictly tied to the third point of the above list: Jane. I grew more and more irritated with Jane in the course of this book because of the way she was handling her relationship with Ryu. I mean, we all knew that Ryu wasn't there to stay and we all know who the next beau is going to be. Still, I thought Jane was a bit of a bitch to Ryu. True, he's got his own agenda and he is not a "diamond in the rough" character (yes, we're STILL watching Aladdin) but I didn't think he deserved all the accusations that Jane threw at him, considering the fact that she is ALSO totally taking advantage of him. I need, once again, to quote Ryu from to express accurately what I think of Jane's behavior:
...Because I think you're using what I did to get rid of me for reasons that have nothing to do with actually happened. You say I play games. Fine, I know I do; it's who I am. But I think you do, too. You're just not aware of them. For once, be honest with yourself. Even if you can't be honest with me.
Eloquently put, she is being a bitch.
-The sense of humor and pop culture references are still there, albeit LESS. Contrary to all other fellow reviewers, I think I still like Tempest Rising slightly better than this book, as this one is a bit more in line with the classic parameters of other UF novels.
Ok my considerations weren't so quick after all. Back to
Strong points:
-This series is seriously addictive. Considering three books are already published and the fourth is coming out soon, I just could not let the next book be. I have to know what happens. Especially in the romance department, I think all readers who, like me, have gone through this series, at this point were just waiting for the serious hooking up to happen.
-I just love the sense of humor and the pop culture references in this book. I am aware many people might find it idiotic but then shut this book and go read for god's sake. This is, as I already said in my previous review of this series, Urban Fantasy that actually makes fun of its own clichés and doesn't take itself too seriously.
-Jane is a great character. I love the way she doesn't know what she is doing most of the time ("I've always been of the turn tail and flee persuasion"), how she is easily sidetracked by her own romantic thoughts and libido ("I wanted to pass Iris notes signed Jane Barghest. I wanted to write ANYAN LOVES JANE on my geography book, if I were still in geography classes. I wanted to play MASH with him as my only "husband" option".) but I also love how her character is developing or to use her words once more "I still had a lot to learn, but I was really, really excited to grow into the woman I glimpsed lurking on the horizon"
And then this gem I can't help but quote:
"The thing is Iris, I've never liked the idea of compromise. In films and in stories, people who love each other - really love each other - make horrendous sacrifices. They give kidneys, they move across the world, they DIE. Or become the undead, because you know I like that sort of book. Basically, the heroine's lover calls, and she answers. Which is stupid. You know why?
Iris shook her head.
"Because he's always fucking calling."
Weak points:
-The romance, which is also strictly tied to the third point of the above list: Jane. I grew more and more irritated with Jane in the course of this book because of the way she was handling her relationship with Ryu. I mean, we all knew that Ryu wasn't there to stay and we all know who the next beau is going to be. Still, I thought Jane was a bit of a bitch to Ryu. True, he's got his own agenda and he is not a "diamond in the rough" character (yes, we're STILL watching Aladdin) but I didn't think he deserved all the accusations that Jane threw at him, considering the fact that she is ALSO totally taking advantage of him. I need, once again, to quote Ryu from to express accurately what I think of Jane's behavior:
...Because I think you're using what I did to get rid of me for reasons that have nothing to do with actually happened. You say I play games. Fine, I know I do; it's who I am. But I think you do, too. You're just not aware of them. For once, be honest with yourself. Even if you can't be honest with me.
Eloquently put, she is being a bitch.
-The sense of humor and pop culture references are still there, albeit LESS. Contrary to all other fellow reviewers, I think I still like Tempest Rising slightly better than this book, as this one is a bit more in line with the classic parameters of other UF novels.
Ok my considerations weren't so quick after all. Back to
January 6, 2011
Rating: 4.5, I think. (Certainly in the 4-4.5 range)
Quick Take: This book gets of to a fun start and continues with great pacing, hilarious characters, and engaging situations. I wasn't completely sold on some of the developments near the end, but overall I adored this book.
(Note: Got what's sort of a spoiler later in the text below. A spoiler-free version of this review can be found .)
Hello again, Jane True! I'm so glad to have rejoined your adventures. I was tentatively a fan of yours, and this book has proved that though you took a while to get through to me, I'm now all yours!
The pacing of this installment is great, not stilted even though there is a variety of activities along the plotline; moments of high tension and action seamlessly segue into others of contemplation and investigation. The former were exhilarating, and the latter were chilling or touching (or both). All told it made for a well-rounded and book, in my opinion.
It's no surprise that this book had a lot to love by way of its characters. As in book one, the cast provides a great deal of amusement and charm from their interactions and singular quirks. Even a seeming antagonist, Conleth, was as intriguing and multi-dimensional as he was disturbing.
Newly presented in this book is a series of very tough, morally ambiguous situations that aren't easy to process and don't allow for simple judgment. I actually enjoyed this aspect, as it gave me pause for reflection. It'd make for a good discussion amongst fans, whom I know will be split or undecided on how they feel.
Now, I was admittedly underwhelmed with some occurrences near the end of the book; not so much with the resulting situation but with the fact that it didn't quite convince me. I felt like there was much more "telling" than there was "showing" (which I now realize is what bothered me so much in the beginning of book one). Want me to be more specific? Well, here goes:
***Spoilah, baby!***
So much time was spent slowly building up the connection between Jane and Ryu. The sweet developments were convincing and natural. Then in a few rhetorical questions near book's end, one is meant to be convinced that it was a horrible idea. I'm talking about questions like: "was Ryu just using me as a snack?" or "was I just one more example of Ryu's boundary issues [involving Anyan]?"...and a few others. It just seemed so sudden and forced, incongruent with the developments that preceded. Now, I'm not saying there weren't seeds of doubt planted in the story earlier, because there were some eye-brow raising moments between the two. But the level of Jane's reaction (and to an extent, Ryu's behavior at the tail end) just didn't resonate with me as believable. It felt mostly like an easy write-out of a character. I'd be fine bidding Ryu bye-bye as a love interest--in fact, I've been an Anyan gal from the get-go...but it just bugged me a bit, the "because Jane's narration says it, it is now so" vibe.
***End of the spoilah, baby!***
My minor disappointments aside, I vastly enjoyed this book. It was such a ride, always engaging even though it was not all happy-go-lucky. This book puts this series on auto-buy status, I'd say!
Quick Take: This book gets of to a fun start and continues with great pacing, hilarious characters, and engaging situations. I wasn't completely sold on some of the developments near the end, but overall I adored this book.
(Note: Got what's sort of a spoiler later in the text below. A spoiler-free version of this review can be found .)
Hello again, Jane True! I'm so glad to have rejoined your adventures. I was tentatively a fan of yours, and this book has proved that though you took a while to get through to me, I'm now all yours!
The pacing of this installment is great, not stilted even though there is a variety of activities along the plotline; moments of high tension and action seamlessly segue into others of contemplation and investigation. The former were exhilarating, and the latter were chilling or touching (or both). All told it made for a well-rounded and book, in my opinion.
It's no surprise that this book had a lot to love by way of its characters. As in book one, the cast provides a great deal of amusement and charm from their interactions and singular quirks. Even a seeming antagonist, Conleth, was as intriguing and multi-dimensional as he was disturbing.
Newly presented in this book is a series of very tough, morally ambiguous situations that aren't easy to process and don't allow for simple judgment. I actually enjoyed this aspect, as it gave me pause for reflection. It'd make for a good discussion amongst fans, whom I know will be split or undecided on how they feel.
Now, I was admittedly underwhelmed with some occurrences near the end of the book; not so much with the resulting situation but with the fact that it didn't quite convince me. I felt like there was much more "telling" than there was "showing" (which I now realize is what bothered me so much in the beginning of book one). Want me to be more specific? Well, here goes:
***Spoilah, baby!***
So much time was spent slowly building up the connection between Jane and Ryu. The sweet developments were convincing and natural. Then in a few rhetorical questions near book's end, one is meant to be convinced that it was a horrible idea. I'm talking about questions like: "was Ryu just using me as a snack?" or "was I just one more example of Ryu's boundary issues [involving Anyan]?"...and a few others. It just seemed so sudden and forced, incongruent with the developments that preceded. Now, I'm not saying there weren't seeds of doubt planted in the story earlier, because there were some eye-brow raising moments between the two. But the level of Jane's reaction (and to an extent, Ryu's behavior at the tail end) just didn't resonate with me as believable. It felt mostly like an easy write-out of a character. I'd be fine bidding Ryu bye-bye as a love interest--in fact, I've been an Anyan gal from the get-go...but it just bugged me a bit, the "because Jane's narration says it, it is now so" vibe.
***End of the spoilah, baby!***
My minor disappointments aside, I vastly enjoyed this book. It was such a ride, always engaging even though it was not all happy-go-lucky. This book puts this series on auto-buy status, I'd say!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2010
Tracking the Tempest is a fun fast-paced adventure that rarely slows down once the story gets moving. Jane is delightful protagonist who reminds me of Sookie from Charlaine Harris’s Southern Vampire books. She is an average girl who suddenly finds herself a part of a world she never new existed, and now has to do her best to straddle the two worlds while developing her own magical skills. Jane is a funny, down to earth heroine who readers will enjoy spending time with. There are also plenty of interesting and quirky side-characters that add additional flavor to the story
With that said, Tracking the Tempest didn’t really charm me quite as much as its predecessor, Tempest Rising. The first book was an adventure of discovery where we met Jane for the first time and were won over by her personality even as we sympathized with her struggles. We also learned about the interesting supernatural world that Peeler created and watched as Jane developed a romance with the suave vampire Ryu.
Tracking the Tempest has a lot of themes found in many other urban fantasies, such as a werewolf vs. vampire love triangle (a situation which is still only being set up), a heated search for a dangerous villain, political intrigue involving a possible traitor, and lots of dead bodies. There is just not as much fresh and unique material here as there was in Tempest Rising.
Jane and Ryu are now a couple and I found their relationship to be far less interesting than it was in the introductory stages. There is no real romance here, though there is plenty of lustful thoughts and sex, which some people might enjoy reading about but I don’t really find entertaining. Though things do a get a bit more interesting when the barghest Anyan appears�
It’s mostly Jane’s personality that differentiates Tracking the Tempest from other books in the genre, though there are some interesting supernatural creatures here that I haven't yet seen elsewhere, which also gave the book a bit of an edge. So while Tracking the Tempest didn't quite live up to my expectations I did still enjoy it enough to complete the book in one day and I do look forward to following it up with the sequel, Tempest's Legacy.
With that said, Tracking the Tempest didn’t really charm me quite as much as its predecessor, Tempest Rising. The first book was an adventure of discovery where we met Jane for the first time and were won over by her personality even as we sympathized with her struggles. We also learned about the interesting supernatural world that Peeler created and watched as Jane developed a romance with the suave vampire Ryu.
Tracking the Tempest has a lot of themes found in many other urban fantasies, such as a werewolf vs. vampire love triangle (a situation which is still only being set up), a heated search for a dangerous villain, political intrigue involving a possible traitor, and lots of dead bodies. There is just not as much fresh and unique material here as there was in Tempest Rising.
Jane and Ryu are now a couple and I found their relationship to be far less interesting than it was in the introductory stages. There is no real romance here, though there is plenty of lustful thoughts and sex, which some people might enjoy reading about but I don’t really find entertaining. Though things do a get a bit more interesting when the barghest Anyan appears�
It’s mostly Jane’s personality that differentiates Tracking the Tempest from other books in the genre, though there are some interesting supernatural creatures here that I haven't yet seen elsewhere, which also gave the book a bit of an edge. So while Tracking the Tempest didn't quite live up to my expectations I did still enjoy it enough to complete the book in one day and I do look forward to following it up with the sequel, Tempest's Legacy.
March 13, 2018
Cute and fun paranormal series. Lighter than some of the other ones out there, though still plenty of death and destruction...
June 24, 2022
"Tracking the Tempest" was a fun read with nice twists and turns. Jane True worked on her powers and seemed to grow as a character. The plot was engaging and the characters consistent. Since my public library doesn't have the next four books I'll purchase the next books, as I'm looking forward to book 3.
library eloan
library eloan
January 19, 2014
Jane and her libido are back! Even better than ever! Ryu and Jane are still going strong. Jane takes a break from her magical training to spend Valentines Day in Boston with her man. Of course, with Jane nothing can ever be simple! Soon her peaceful, and hanky-panky, time is cut in by a powerful being. A being with immense power, and one who is interested in Jane. Another halfling.
What I love about Tracking the Tempest is despite the 4 month time span readers can fall right into place with the world Peeler has created. Jane has become one of my favorite book pals! Oh, and don't forget her libido. Her libido is the best of gal pals! Despite the amazing humor that I've come to love from this series, Tracking the Tempest is pretty deep. It deals with the prejudices that are brought up in the first book: how halflings are mistreated. By the end of the book the halfling that Jane is trying to stop from killing is not truly evil. The poor guy is a victim and when things wrap up not only is Jane left lost and sad, so is the reader. The real villains take a step out of the shadows.
Ryu has always been a sticky point for me. Jane and him have chemistry and Ryu is hilariously suave and sexy. Yet, most of the time Ryu just rubs me wrong as he treats Jane like a child and thinks he's protecting her. That protection usually puts her in the crossfire. Ryu isn't a villain. He honestly loves Jane. The problem is that he needs to feed, and if Jane isn't there he needs to get it from somewhere else. Enter the little black book, I like seeing that Jane doesn't appreciate that. Also, he wants Jane to move to Boston so that he can feed off her exclusively. He needs that right? But how could any woman feel like nothing but a food source?
Jane hasn't had a relationship outside of her first love and it's so realistic as she muddles around trying to figure out who she is and what a relationship should be for her. The characters are the true journey of this series. Jane transforms and keeps growing. The last book was her wake up call. This one is her steps to becoming who she is. In the end I loved how she took charge and decided that she deserved to have a man that was there just for her, and that she could be selfish for her happiness.
Of course the pissing contest between Anyan and Ryu continues! Which is perfect. Every character old and new to this series are so well developed. It feels so real, this is a book that gives the full book experience. When you loath a character you're picking out a spot in your backyard to bury the body. When you love them all you want to do is squeeze them and invite them over for wine!
Hands down one of my most favorite Urban Fantasy series out there! The blending of serious issues, magic, humor of the light and dark kind, romance, personal journey, and mystery is perfect. Tracking the Tempest shows readers a glimpse of a magical world that is waiting for its own revolution. Oh, and I knew the instant I met Anyan that I was on his side. Come on! Jane and him are meant to be! So here's to Jane and her libido! Because some shit is going down the next book!
Sexual Content: Plenty of sexual humor—Jane’s libido has a life of it’s own! There are bedroom scenes nothing too raunchy, but hot-hot-hot! There is a scene where Jane has to apply her feminine wiles to help herself out, it may creep some readers out.
5/5- Fabulous, a beautiful obsession!
Originally reviewed at .
What I love about Tracking the Tempest is despite the 4 month time span readers can fall right into place with the world Peeler has created. Jane has become one of my favorite book pals! Oh, and don't forget her libido. Her libido is the best of gal pals! Despite the amazing humor that I've come to love from this series, Tracking the Tempest is pretty deep. It deals with the prejudices that are brought up in the first book: how halflings are mistreated. By the end of the book the halfling that Jane is trying to stop from killing is not truly evil. The poor guy is a victim and when things wrap up not only is Jane left lost and sad, so is the reader. The real villains take a step out of the shadows.
Ryu has always been a sticky point for me. Jane and him have chemistry and Ryu is hilariously suave and sexy. Yet, most of the time Ryu just rubs me wrong as he treats Jane like a child and thinks he's protecting her. That protection usually puts her in the crossfire. Ryu isn't a villain. He honestly loves Jane. The problem is that he needs to feed, and if Jane isn't there he needs to get it from somewhere else. Enter the little black book, I like seeing that Jane doesn't appreciate that. Also, he wants Jane to move to Boston so that he can feed off her exclusively. He needs that right? But how could any woman feel like nothing but a food source?
Jane hasn't had a relationship outside of her first love and it's so realistic as she muddles around trying to figure out who she is and what a relationship should be for her. The characters are the true journey of this series. Jane transforms and keeps growing. The last book was her wake up call. This one is her steps to becoming who she is. In the end I loved how she took charge and decided that she deserved to have a man that was there just for her, and that she could be selfish for her happiness.
Of course the pissing contest between Anyan and Ryu continues! Which is perfect. Every character old and new to this series are so well developed. It feels so real, this is a book that gives the full book experience. When you loath a character you're picking out a spot in your backyard to bury the body. When you love them all you want to do is squeeze them and invite them over for wine!
Hands down one of my most favorite Urban Fantasy series out there! The blending of serious issues, magic, humor of the light and dark kind, romance, personal journey, and mystery is perfect. Tracking the Tempest shows readers a glimpse of a magical world that is waiting for its own revolution. Oh, and I knew the instant I met Anyan that I was on his side. Come on! Jane and him are meant to be! So here's to Jane and her libido! Because some shit is going down the next book!
Sexual Content: Plenty of sexual humor—Jane’s libido has a life of it’s own! There are bedroom scenes nothing too raunchy, but hot-hot-hot! There is a scene where Jane has to apply her feminine wiles to help herself out, it may creep some readers out.
5/5- Fabulous, a beautiful obsession!
Originally reviewed at .
December 19, 2010
4.5 stars: urban fantasy fans hold on to your hats: this one is even better than the first one!
When I first discovered the new Jane True series, I was so pleasantly surprised. I gave book one a solid four stars, and this second installment is even better. The series reminds me in style to the SOOKIE SACKHOUSE series--quirky, fun, interesting characters and a fast moving urban fantasy plotine. Terrific mix of adventure, suspense, mystery and romance. Great world builing! I love the range of the types of characters, e.g. gnomes, vampires, kelpies, shapechangers, goblins, succubus,alfar, brownies and more.
Tracking the Tempest picks up shortly after Tempest Rising. Jane, our half selkie-half human heroine, is still living in Rockabill working in a local bookstore and taking care of her elderly dad. She is also training to learn her powers with Nell, the gnome in charge of the supernaturals where she lives. Jane's selkie powers are derived from the water. She is still dating Ryu, the baobhan sith (the beings that inspired vampire myths--they must consume human essence). He is investigating a series of murders conducted by another halfling--this one half Ifrit/half human. While visiting him in Boston, Jane gets pulled into the dangerous investigation. Anyan, the powerful Barghest (shapechanger), also gets involved.
No 'mary sue', Jane is an interesting, imperfect character that makes you want to read her story. I enjoy seeing her growth. At the start of the series, she has no knowledge of the supernatural and is holding a lot of grief over her dead love. She really comes out of her shell in the first book and started to live again. Then in this installment we see her gain strength/power and use her smarts. I also like that she is sometimes goofy--it makes her more real. Like in the beginning of Tracking the Tempest, she's walking through the forest, happily swinging her bag, and then promptly drops all the contents of the bag on the ground "wondering for about the fifth time that month whether Nell had a spell to make me less of a spaz." And she quotes phrases from movies like Star Wars, Super Troopers and Space Balls. I espcially liked her inner voice conversations between her 'brain' and her 'libido'. So funny!
I liked that we saw a little more emotion between between Jane and Ryu than the previous book. I can't say much more, because it'd be a spoiler but I will say I agreed with her thoughts and concerns and was very happy with the ending.
The world building is top notch. Not only in the range of characters and their descriptions/abilities, but also in the setting itself. For example Rockabill, the small town where Jane lives exhibits quirkiness that will make you smile. It is a tourist attraction for a whirlpool called Old Sow, so the town has named many of their businesses after pigs.
Don't let the covers put you off the books. Even though they look cartoonish, this is a great adult urban fantasy series. To me, the covers looked more young adult so I didn't try them until someone recommended them. I'm very much looking forward to book three Tempest's Legacy, which will be out Dec. 29, 2010. I already added it to my preorder list!
Series reading order:
1 Tempest Rising
2 Tracking the Tempest
3 Tempest's Legacy
When I first discovered the new Jane True series, I was so pleasantly surprised. I gave book one a solid four stars, and this second installment is even better. The series reminds me in style to the SOOKIE SACKHOUSE series--quirky, fun, interesting characters and a fast moving urban fantasy plotine. Terrific mix of adventure, suspense, mystery and romance. Great world builing! I love the range of the types of characters, e.g. gnomes, vampires, kelpies, shapechangers, goblins, succubus,alfar, brownies and more.
Tracking the Tempest picks up shortly after Tempest Rising. Jane, our half selkie-half human heroine, is still living in Rockabill working in a local bookstore and taking care of her elderly dad. She is also training to learn her powers with Nell, the gnome in charge of the supernaturals where she lives. Jane's selkie powers are derived from the water. She is still dating Ryu, the baobhan sith (the beings that inspired vampire myths--they must consume human essence). He is investigating a series of murders conducted by another halfling--this one half Ifrit/half human. While visiting him in Boston, Jane gets pulled into the dangerous investigation. Anyan, the powerful Barghest (shapechanger), also gets involved.
No 'mary sue', Jane is an interesting, imperfect character that makes you want to read her story. I enjoy seeing her growth. At the start of the series, she has no knowledge of the supernatural and is holding a lot of grief over her dead love. She really comes out of her shell in the first book and started to live again. Then in this installment we see her gain strength/power and use her smarts. I also like that she is sometimes goofy--it makes her more real. Like in the beginning of Tracking the Tempest, she's walking through the forest, happily swinging her bag, and then promptly drops all the contents of the bag on the ground "wondering for about the fifth time that month whether Nell had a spell to make me less of a spaz." And she quotes phrases from movies like Star Wars, Super Troopers and Space Balls. I espcially liked her inner voice conversations between her 'brain' and her 'libido'. So funny!
I liked that we saw a little more emotion between between Jane and Ryu than the previous book. I can't say much more, because it'd be a spoiler but I will say I agreed with her thoughts and concerns and was very happy with the ending.
The world building is top notch. Not only in the range of characters and their descriptions/abilities, but also in the setting itself. For example Rockabill, the small town where Jane lives exhibits quirkiness that will make you smile. It is a tourist attraction for a whirlpool called Old Sow, so the town has named many of their businesses after pigs.
Don't let the covers put you off the books. Even though they look cartoonish, this is a great adult urban fantasy series. To me, the covers looked more young adult so I didn't try them until someone recommended them. I'm very much looking forward to book three Tempest's Legacy, which will be out Dec. 29, 2010. I already added it to my preorder list!
Series reading order:
1 Tempest Rising
2 Tracking the Tempest
3 Tempest's Legacy
July 15, 2010
Review coming soonTracking The Tempest is the second book in Nicole Peeler’s Jane True series, where we follow Jane who found out in the first novel that she is part selkie & part human.
Jane is still coming to terms with it & being trained in her defense shields & her offense. She’s also a little over 3 months into a long distance relationship with Ryu (babohan sith/vampire) & Ryu is starting to put pressure on Jane to take the relationship to the next level, which would turn her whole world upside down. While visiting Ryu in Boston, Jane gets sucked into an investigation he is conducting where a hafling has broken out of a facility & is killing people & supes at an alarming pace.
In the 3 odd months since Tempest Rising, Jane has been training with Nell (a gnome), Trill (the weirdest My Little Pony out there) & Anyan (hell hound) learning glamours, shields & mage lights, all to prepare her to defend herself properly in the supe world she’s been thrown into. She’s happy & proud of herself for continuing on in the face of all the weirdness that has surrounded her. Little does she know how soon she’ll be needing those shields.
I love Jane, she’s snarky & hard headed, but she knows what she wants & she keeps pushing to get it. Ryu & his necessity for Jane to move to Boston really irritated me, I love Ryu but he doesn’t seem to know what the word compromise means. It’s his way or no way & I am glad that Jane keeps “sticking it to the man�. It’s amazing how a character changes from one book to the next, Jane has grown up more & Ryu seems to be more dependant on Jane.
There is also some new tension between Anyan & Jane, and also between Ryu & Anyan. Ryu makes mention of something, but doesn’t follow through with the reason he doesn’t seem to like Anyan much. I wonder how the storyline will progress between the three of them.
There are some cool additions to the series, Ryu’s group of supernatural police. I fell in love with Julian & I hope we get to see more of him. Ms. Peeler also has a big surprise when Jane finally finds out where Grizzie has been disappearing to all this time.
My only issue with Tracking The Tempest was the (IMO) overuse of terms of endearment between Ryu & Jane (baby, babe, sweetheart) I am all for showing your love/like but I thought it was a bit much. But that said, Jane comes off as real. She’s a character you can relate to in terms of her relationships & even her reaction to being thrown into a world that she had no idea existed, she’s just trying to live. Just like any of us would be & that’s what I love most about Ms. Peeler’s writing, take away the supernatural elements & it could be real.
Nicole Peeler is snarky, witty & hilarious�.pick up a copy, you’ll be happy you did it’s a fun ride!
Jane is still coming to terms with it & being trained in her defense shields & her offense. She’s also a little over 3 months into a long distance relationship with Ryu (babohan sith/vampire) & Ryu is starting to put pressure on Jane to take the relationship to the next level, which would turn her whole world upside down. While visiting Ryu in Boston, Jane gets sucked into an investigation he is conducting where a hafling has broken out of a facility & is killing people & supes at an alarming pace.
In the 3 odd months since Tempest Rising, Jane has been training with Nell (a gnome), Trill (the weirdest My Little Pony out there) & Anyan (hell hound) learning glamours, shields & mage lights, all to prepare her to defend herself properly in the supe world she’s been thrown into. She’s happy & proud of herself for continuing on in the face of all the weirdness that has surrounded her. Little does she know how soon she’ll be needing those shields.
I love Jane, she’s snarky & hard headed, but she knows what she wants & she keeps pushing to get it. Ryu & his necessity for Jane to move to Boston really irritated me, I love Ryu but he doesn’t seem to know what the word compromise means. It’s his way or no way & I am glad that Jane keeps “sticking it to the man�. It’s amazing how a character changes from one book to the next, Jane has grown up more & Ryu seems to be more dependant on Jane.
There is also some new tension between Anyan & Jane, and also between Ryu & Anyan. Ryu makes mention of something, but doesn’t follow through with the reason he doesn’t seem to like Anyan much. I wonder how the storyline will progress between the three of them.
There are some cool additions to the series, Ryu’s group of supernatural police. I fell in love with Julian & I hope we get to see more of him. Ms. Peeler also has a big surprise when Jane finally finds out where Grizzie has been disappearing to all this time.
My only issue with Tracking The Tempest was the (IMO) overuse of terms of endearment between Ryu & Jane (baby, babe, sweetheart) I am all for showing your love/like but I thought it was a bit much. But that said, Jane comes off as real. She’s a character you can relate to in terms of her relationships & even her reaction to being thrown into a world that she had no idea existed, she’s just trying to live. Just like any of us would be & that’s what I love most about Ms. Peeler’s writing, take away the supernatural elements & it could be real.
Nicole Peeler is snarky, witty & hilarious�.pick up a copy, you’ll be happy you did it’s a fun ride!
June 27, 2010
Jane has been training with Nell, Rockabill's Gnome, for the four months between Tempest Rising's end and now. She's learning; shields, creating glamours, and mage balls of light. Jane is the happiest she has been in a long, long time; with monthly rendezvous with Ryu, training, swimming, and taking care of her father, along with working at the Bookstore with her friends. Jane is starting to settle into her super live in the paranormal world. Although, she still thinks on the naga's murders from Tempest Rising - knowing deep down there had to be more behind the murders with Jarl than lead to believe. Ryu sent Jane a romantic invitation to come to his home in Boston for a lavish Valentines Day with him. While on their romantic evening out they are attacked by a man named Conleth, as Ryu believes. The secret Jane's been keeping from Ryu comes out in the open...
I was so glad to be back in Rockabill with Jane True and all the sow named places. I also really enjoyed how Nicole took Jane out of her comfort zone and introduced us to so many new characters and ideas.
We get to meet a whole new set of characters, Ryu's deputies and a few Alfar crew members. I really loved meeting Ryu's crew of deputies. Their abilities where all unique. I loved Julian and how he related with Jane. I enjoyed Daoud and Caleb and Jane's reaction to both of them. Then we also have Conleth, who has a long not so nice history to bring him to the point of dangerous he is. And it is all described to us very well, through the investigation Ryu and Jane undertake.
Jane is a character I really enjoyed in Tempest Rising, but here in Tracking the Tempest she has grown a great deal for me. She's more open and comfortable with herself. Jane is learning how to protect herself in this new world she is learning about and doing rather well at it. Even when Jane is taken out of her element she still shines. As you read you know Jane is 'human' as she is afraid, and still has the tendency to want to flee rather than fight. And in some of her tight spots, I would too.
The humor... Nicole is great at adding the one liners and quick clever, sarcastic, and/or sexy comments for the characters. I think I had a smile on my face through a majority of the book at all the quick jokes and answers or comments Jane and the other characters made. I absolutely loved the scene of Jane slipping on ice as she gets out of the car. I laughed out loud while I read it.
And there is action to. This book doesn't sit still at all. There is always something happening to keep you flipping the pages. The book is a fantastic fast paced fun ride with terrific action and love.
I was so glad to be back in Rockabill with Jane True and all the sow named places. I also really enjoyed how Nicole took Jane out of her comfort zone and introduced us to so many new characters and ideas.
We get to meet a whole new set of characters, Ryu's deputies and a few Alfar crew members. I really loved meeting Ryu's crew of deputies. Their abilities where all unique. I loved Julian and how he related with Jane. I enjoyed Daoud and Caleb and Jane's reaction to both of them. Then we also have Conleth, who has a long not so nice history to bring him to the point of dangerous he is. And it is all described to us very well, through the investigation Ryu and Jane undertake.
Jane is a character I really enjoyed in Tempest Rising, but here in Tracking the Tempest she has grown a great deal for me. She's more open and comfortable with herself. Jane is learning how to protect herself in this new world she is learning about and doing rather well at it. Even when Jane is taken out of her element she still shines. As you read you know Jane is 'human' as she is afraid, and still has the tendency to want to flee rather than fight. And in some of her tight spots, I would too.
The humor... Nicole is great at adding the one liners and quick clever, sarcastic, and/or sexy comments for the characters. I think I had a smile on my face through a majority of the book at all the quick jokes and answers or comments Jane and the other characters made. I absolutely loved the scene of Jane slipping on ice as she gets out of the car. I laughed out loud while I read it.
And there is action to. This book doesn't sit still at all. There is always something happening to keep you flipping the pages. The book is a fantastic fast paced fun ride with terrific action and love.
October 26, 2013
I just finished a treat � Tracking the Tempest by Nicole Peeler. It’s an excellent and fun read from Peeler for the second time in a row, I’m happy to broadcast.
We open on Valentine’s day. Jane and Ryu have a pleasure romp planned in Boston. But when the date ends in flames (literally) Jane finds herself caught up in an investigation that may hit too close to home…herself.
I’ve been a fan of these since reading Tempest Rising in November and have made it one of my tasks at work to share Peeler’s world with anyone who cares. As of the release of Tracking I have successfully handsold 100 copies of the first one (bragging rights, raise the roof). So, of course I was thrilled to dip back into the world of Rockabill Maine and it’s denizens. Well, I adore Jane True. I adore Rockabill and all of Jane’s outcast, quirky friends. I really adore Ms. Peeler’s writing.
I keep telling people two things when they ask me about the Tempest series. One is that Peeler’s savvy writing had me at hello (it’s funny and hip and so smart that I feel she’s satirizing the entire Urban Fantasy genre while, in tandem, revolutionizing it). And two; these books are better than Charlaine Harris� Sookie Stackhouse books. For real. They are alike enough to make the comparison (outcast heroine with something off about her, vampire boyfriend, supernatural mystery element, small narrow-minded town, etc. etc.) but unlike enough that people can enjoy both of the series as wholly separate entities, which they are. My thing, I don’t find Peeler’s Tempest books to be ridiculous, guilty pleasures that make me roll my eyes constantly. I find the writing to be utterly satisfying. The characters are all fresh and edgy, and Jane’s oddball antics and inner dialogues have me riotously laughing (and reading aloud to other people at every chance I get).
I’m crestfallen to have to wait until January for Tempest’s Legacy but that is the bookseller’s cross to bear. Rest assured that I will be reading Nicole Peeler at the earliest chance I get. I can’t wait to see what she pulls out next.
5 out of 5 stars.
*Endgush*
- review courtesy of
May 10, 2011
Definitely a 4. Maybe even a little more.
Much of what I think has already been said by Maja in , so I'll just add to that.
This book is way better than the first, there's a clearer plot and better reasons for Jane to be involved in the case, more action and a healthy reduction of the amount of smut. But better than all this are the characters. It's all about them and they've grown on me by being consistent with their personalities, even with that means running for the woods instead of having an epic fight. Whoever like them a little in the first book, should give this one a chance; it probably won't disappoint you.
Reading Maja's review about how some people compare Jane to Sookie, I have to agree that I don't see many similarities. They have the outcast-living-in-a-small-town background, but they handle themselves quite differently. Not to mention that the ways in which the books are structured have nothing in common.
Instead, I was reminded of another series that I like, the one about Cassie Palmer by Karen Chance. Jane and Cassie tend to react in the same way, more like a normal person than an action flick chick, but what really made the connection in my mind was that, throughout the book, Ryu seemed to be channeling "condescending, suave Mircea" while Anyan was doing a pretty good "fourth book's Pritkin" impression (those who follow that series will understand why the "fourth book" part was necessary. For the rest, let's just say that not many people liked Pritkin at first). Peeler and Chance also have other things in common, like a goofy sense of humor or the way the pace their stories. So I'd recommend anyone who likes one series to check out the other ASAP.
One last thing. The ending, without being cliffhangerish at all, made me want to grab the next book right away, which is exactly what I'm going to do now.
Much of what I think has already been said by Maja in , so I'll just add to that.
This book is way better than the first, there's a clearer plot and better reasons for Jane to be involved in the case, more action and a healthy reduction of the amount of smut. But better than all this are the characters. It's all about them and they've grown on me by being consistent with their personalities, even with that means running for the woods instead of having an epic fight. Whoever like them a little in the first book, should give this one a chance; it probably won't disappoint you.
Reading Maja's review about how some people compare Jane to Sookie, I have to agree that I don't see many similarities. They have the outcast-living-in-a-small-town background, but they handle themselves quite differently. Not to mention that the ways in which the books are structured have nothing in common.
Instead, I was reminded of another series that I like, the one about Cassie Palmer by Karen Chance. Jane and Cassie tend to react in the same way, more like a normal person than an action flick chick, but what really made the connection in my mind was that, throughout the book, Ryu seemed to be channeling "condescending, suave Mircea" while Anyan was doing a pretty good "fourth book's Pritkin" impression (those who follow that series will understand why the "fourth book" part was necessary. For the rest, let's just say that not many people liked Pritkin at first). Peeler and Chance also have other things in common, like a goofy sense of humor or the way the pace their stories. So I'd recommend anyone who likes one series to check out the other ASAP.
One last thing. The ending, without being cliffhangerish at all, made me want to grab the next book right away, which is exactly what I'm going to do now.
July 4, 2010
It's a soft 4 stars. It's terrific for what it is, which is a smart and funny but not too serious adventure/romance. The plot is fast-paced and entertaining. Jane's commentary occasionally walks the line between chick-lit humor and annoying, but I think it mostly stays on the humor side of the line. I'm enjoying Jane's personal growth and gumption, although Dr. Peeler got a tiny bit lecture-y near the end.
But poor Jane obviously has no idea that she's starring in a series of novels, or she'd have realized already that the guy she's with can't be the guy she ends up with. For one thing, he's just wrong for her. For another, what fun would that be? Authors love to torture loyal readers by making it take forever for the true lovers to get together. At least Peeler has come up with a new twist on the vampire vs. werewolf debate with Anyan the barghest (dog shifter) and Ryu the baobhan sith. I'm more of a dog fan anyway. Plus I just can't get behind a man who's name is pronounced the same way as Kanga's son, Roo.
But poor Jane obviously has no idea that she's starring in a series of novels, or she'd have realized already that the guy she's with can't be the guy she ends up with. For one thing, he's just wrong for her. For another, what fun would that be? Authors love to torture loyal readers by making it take forever for the true lovers to get together. At least Peeler has come up with a new twist on the vampire vs. werewolf debate with Anyan the barghest (dog shifter) and Ryu the baobhan sith. I'm more of a dog fan anyway. Plus I just can't get behind a man who's name is pronounced the same way as Kanga's son, Roo.
May 12, 2011
Solid 4. The protag (Jane) is learning and growing and slowly giving up her intentional avoidance (why do so many UF and PNR heroines use this tactic to cope?) She's not stuck in it, though, and she's getting strong as a character and learning about her new world.
The romance took a predictable direction. I don't think Ryu is a schmuck, though. He gave the best he had to give. I must admit that I feel no investment in that relationship, though.
The whodunit solution was predictable but getting to the solution was not. In this instance the journey was the point.
In the first book my only really negative feedback was the amount of inner dialog between the protag's libido and her inner moralist. The amount of that was dramatically cut back in this volume and I find it improved the read and made the bit that it did occur that much more endearing.
I liked it and am going to jump right into the third book.
The romance took a predictable direction. I don't think Ryu is a schmuck, though. He gave the best he had to give. I must admit that I feel no investment in that relationship, though.
The whodunit solution was predictable but getting to the solution was not. In this instance the journey was the point.
In the first book my only really negative feedback was the amount of inner dialog between the protag's libido and her inner moralist. The amount of that was dramatically cut back in this volume and I find it improved the read and made the bit that it did occur that much more endearing.
I liked it and am going to jump right into the third book.
June 3, 2011
I seriously love this series. Jane isn't a super kick butt heroine, but she's working on it. Ryu is so yummy, but Anyan is the better catch in my opinion. He is hot, strong, more mature, and lives the way that Jane does. She is a simple girl, from the country, family and friends are important to her. I get that same vibe from Anyan, and although Ryu claims to love Jane, I think she is more convenient than anything. I had such mixed feelings about Conleth. He was running around killing everyone, and burning everything down, but could you blame him? Especially when his whole story comes out, he never had a chance at normal. While I did feel sorry for him, he was extremely creepy! Ryu's team of investigators are awesome. Jonah is my favorite because of the way he relates to Jane. I just really liked them all, and I hope they stick around. Love it, love it, and I definitely recommend you read it!
February 5, 2011
LOVE Jane!
July 14, 2023
3.5 stars
I have taken off a half star for the copious use of the term “my lover�. Awkward and cringey. :/ Like a Harlequin romance from 1983.
Jane True: 5 Stars, a lovable “everywoman� with great character development. If you love Sookie Sackhouse you will definitely love Jane
Plot: 3 stars a little chaotic and gappy
Secondary characters: 4 stars (oh Anyan!!!)
A Charming and quick read
I have taken off a half star for the copious use of the term “my lover�. Awkward and cringey. :/ Like a Harlequin romance from 1983.
Jane True: 5 Stars, a lovable “everywoman� with great character development. If you love Sookie Sackhouse you will definitely love Jane
Plot: 3 stars a little chaotic and gappy
Secondary characters: 4 stars (oh Anyan!!!)
A Charming and quick read
July 1, 2010
Jane is a wonderful character. She's funny and sarcastic and powerful and independent. I love her!! And I love the non-traditional supernatural characters that are in this series. Ryu, Anyan, Nell, Caleb and the others are great. The powers that they have are different and the new bad guy and this story is interesting.
I love the writing style. I love the realistic feel to the dialogue and Jane's inner thoughts. One of my favorite quotes: "It was huge, as in Crocodile Dundee 'Now that's a knoife' huge" (And yes, it is spelled knoife!) and I love how the author continues that - so that a page later "You did just take a f*@#$% 'knoife' for him...And now Ryu totally owes you..." And then a few pages later, again "I'll show that halfling a 'knoife'..." By carrying things like that through, you really feel like you start to know Jane and I totally felt like I was inside her head. Her libido isn't as vocal in this book, but when it is, it is laugh-out-loud funny.
The story here is that there are a bunch of murders that are being committed by a halfling who was raised in a laboratory and was experimented on. Jane starts off on a valentine's day trip to see Ryu (**sigh. he's so dreamy**). And from there, things get kind of crazy. Jane works with the investigators to get to the bottom of a bunch of murders and it's great to see her growth, emotionally and magically. Her power becomes a force to be reckoned with and its amazing.
The intrigue and the twists and the ties back to the first book brought back all the wonderfulness of the first book - although I forgot, at first, who a few of the players who were referenced are in this universe. Phaedra is one of the characters who I wasn't sure what to make of at first, and **spoiler alert** Jane doesn't trust her and for good reason. her cast of baddies are really a nasty group. And they are fun to read.
It will be interesting to see where book 3 goes. I must admit that I read the blurb in the back from Tempest's Legacy, and I am not all that thirlled to see where the whole Jane/Ryu/Anyan thing might be headed. Yikes. Feeling like that might be a little to Twilight-ish with the whole one girl-two guys thing. But, we'll see. And don't get me wrong, I like Anyan (way better then I like Jacob) but I am definitely a "Team Ryu" gal (Team Anyan is so not happening in my mind!)
I get why some have compared these to the Sookie series - and I think they are similar in that they are fun and quick. They involve someone from a tiny town with supernatural abilities and the town apparently has a bunch of supes. In fact, the word "supes" seems to even be a common link. The first of these had a few steamy scenes (admittedly, the first was more steamy) - sort of like (some of) Sookie's books. But, really, that's where the similarities end. Sookie is easy to identify with, but she isn't the sarcastic bundle of a no-pushover that Jane is. Sookie isn't stupid, nor is she really such an easy target - but when it comes to it, Jane is way funnier, smarter, and her libido puts Sookie's to shame. Plus, Jane can totally defend herself with her own "mojo" (as she calls the magic) and Sookie really can't do that, she has to rely on others. Making Sookie the damsel in distress while Jane is the kick-butt wonder woman herself. The action and the intrigue is also a little better - the writing too. I love the Sookie books (have read 'em all), but the writing here is just more intelligent and as a result more fun for me to read. Not to mention, the huge range of mythological creatures involved here open up so many more possibilities that it's way more interesting then just vamps and shifters. Not to mention, this does not feel like a commentary on society (and society's take on homosexuality, which, face it, Sookie's books do).
Finally, as one who appreciates book artwork - I adore the covers and the icon on the pages which start new chapters. I am one of those people who totally browses covers and if they look fun, I pick them up (hence how I started reading Queen Betsy books, Vegas Vampire books and the first of the Strange Neighbors). I totally hope that there are more Jane True books coming (beyond just Tempest's Legacy) and that they continue to use the same artist.
I love the writing style. I love the realistic feel to the dialogue and Jane's inner thoughts. One of my favorite quotes: "It was huge, as in Crocodile Dundee 'Now that's a knoife' huge" (And yes, it is spelled knoife!) and I love how the author continues that - so that a page later "You did just take a f*@#$% 'knoife' for him...And now Ryu totally owes you..." And then a few pages later, again "I'll show that halfling a 'knoife'..." By carrying things like that through, you really feel like you start to know Jane and I totally felt like I was inside her head. Her libido isn't as vocal in this book, but when it is, it is laugh-out-loud funny.
The story here is that there are a bunch of murders that are being committed by a halfling who was raised in a laboratory and was experimented on. Jane starts off on a valentine's day trip to see Ryu (**sigh. he's so dreamy**). And from there, things get kind of crazy. Jane works with the investigators to get to the bottom of a bunch of murders and it's great to see her growth, emotionally and magically. Her power becomes a force to be reckoned with and its amazing.
The intrigue and the twists and the ties back to the first book brought back all the wonderfulness of the first book - although I forgot, at first, who a few of the players who were referenced are in this universe. Phaedra is one of the characters who I wasn't sure what to make of at first, and **spoiler alert** Jane doesn't trust her and for good reason. her cast of baddies are really a nasty group. And they are fun to read.
It will be interesting to see where book 3 goes. I must admit that I read the blurb in the back from Tempest's Legacy, and I am not all that thirlled to see where the whole Jane/Ryu/Anyan thing might be headed. Yikes. Feeling like that might be a little to Twilight-ish with the whole one girl-two guys thing. But, we'll see. And don't get me wrong, I like Anyan (way better then I like Jacob) but I am definitely a "Team Ryu" gal (Team Anyan is so not happening in my mind!)
I get why some have compared these to the Sookie series - and I think they are similar in that they are fun and quick. They involve someone from a tiny town with supernatural abilities and the town apparently has a bunch of supes. In fact, the word "supes" seems to even be a common link. The first of these had a few steamy scenes (admittedly, the first was more steamy) - sort of like (some of) Sookie's books. But, really, that's where the similarities end. Sookie is easy to identify with, but she isn't the sarcastic bundle of a no-pushover that Jane is. Sookie isn't stupid, nor is she really such an easy target - but when it comes to it, Jane is way funnier, smarter, and her libido puts Sookie's to shame. Plus, Jane can totally defend herself with her own "mojo" (as she calls the magic) and Sookie really can't do that, she has to rely on others. Making Sookie the damsel in distress while Jane is the kick-butt wonder woman herself. The action and the intrigue is also a little better - the writing too. I love the Sookie books (have read 'em all), but the writing here is just more intelligent and as a result more fun for me to read. Not to mention, the huge range of mythological creatures involved here open up so many more possibilities that it's way more interesting then just vamps and shifters. Not to mention, this does not feel like a commentary on society (and society's take on homosexuality, which, face it, Sookie's books do).
Finally, as one who appreciates book artwork - I adore the covers and the icon on the pages which start new chapters. I am one of those people who totally browses covers and if they look fun, I pick them up (hence how I started reading Queen Betsy books, Vegas Vampire books and the first of the Strange Neighbors). I totally hope that there are more Jane True books coming (beyond just Tempest's Legacy) and that they continue to use the same artist.
August 17, 2010
Back into the crazy world of Jane True, and the story is only getting better.
Our story picks up about four months on since the end of the last book. Jane is learning how to use her magic and although she hasn’t mastered a lot of offensive magic, she is getting quite good at shields under the watchful eye of Nell the Gnome.
This adventure really starts in Boston after she goes to visit Ryu the sexy vampire. A rogue Halfling is on the loose and death by fire has become a recent occurance in the world of supes. After getting tangled up in the mess and the Halfling taking a liking to Jane she helps out with trying to solve the case.
Jane is once again hilarious with her internal monologue. She is also intelligent enough to spot things overlooked by others. The development of her powers in Tracking the Tempest definitely adds a whole new element to listening to how her brain works.
Ryu I didn’t like in this one, he was very condescending to Jane in front of his collegues and even Jane wondered at a point in time if we were now seeing the real Ryu. He became an arrogant pig and in hindsight makes some of his actions from Tempest Rising a little clearer.
Anyan, completely swoonworthy once again with his all maleness and complete gentleness, with Jane starting to gravitate towards him especially furthering their friendship as he took over her training in Boston was really sweet especially after the way Ryu was treating her.
We also have a plethora of new characters introduced in the form of Ryu’s investigative team. Caleb the pantless satyr was constantly good for a laugh and very adept at healing all of the teams various injuries, Daoud the guy with the general store in his pants and Julian the Halfling recharger were all excellent additions to the cast of characters and I definitely hope to see them reappear later on.
Tracking the Tempest had me in fits of laughter once again with Janes thoughts and the new characters various one liners. The underlying mystery carrying on from Tempest Rising added extra levels to Tracking the Tempest and that mystery alone will have me drooling for more. I once again cannot wait until the next instalment of this awesome series, Tempest’s Legacy.
Find this review at storywings.blogspot.com
Our story picks up about four months on since the end of the last book. Jane is learning how to use her magic and although she hasn’t mastered a lot of offensive magic, she is getting quite good at shields under the watchful eye of Nell the Gnome.
This adventure really starts in Boston after she goes to visit Ryu the sexy vampire. A rogue Halfling is on the loose and death by fire has become a recent occurance in the world of supes. After getting tangled up in the mess and the Halfling taking a liking to Jane she helps out with trying to solve the case.
Jane is once again hilarious with her internal monologue. She is also intelligent enough to spot things overlooked by others. The development of her powers in Tracking the Tempest definitely adds a whole new element to listening to how her brain works.
Ryu I didn’t like in this one, he was very condescending to Jane in front of his collegues and even Jane wondered at a point in time if we were now seeing the real Ryu. He became an arrogant pig and in hindsight makes some of his actions from Tempest Rising a little clearer.
Anyan, completely swoonworthy once again with his all maleness and complete gentleness, with Jane starting to gravitate towards him especially furthering their friendship as he took over her training in Boston was really sweet especially after the way Ryu was treating her.
We also have a plethora of new characters introduced in the form of Ryu’s investigative team. Caleb the pantless satyr was constantly good for a laugh and very adept at healing all of the teams various injuries, Daoud the guy with the general store in his pants and Julian the Halfling recharger were all excellent additions to the cast of characters and I definitely hope to see them reappear later on.
Tracking the Tempest had me in fits of laughter once again with Janes thoughts and the new characters various one liners. The underlying mystery carrying on from Tempest Rising added extra levels to Tracking the Tempest and that mystery alone will have me drooling for more. I once again cannot wait until the next instalment of this awesome series, Tempest’s Legacy.
Find this review at storywings.blogspot.com
July 18, 2010
Jane True is a half-selkie after my own heart � she gives smutty paranormal romances to a horny succubus and has an internal monologue that has me snorting in hysterics. In this entry into the Jane True series (The first book Tempest Rising is a favorite of mine), Jane takes off on a romantic get-away with her hot vampire boyfriend, Ryu, for Valentine’s day weekend. Unfortunately, Jane in her typical uncoordinated form stumbles into some problems of her own that end up following her back to Rockabill. Now Jane’s fears of her supernatural life putting her normal mortal friends and family in danger looks like they might come true.
Jane has dealt with a lot in the past few months, from learning that the a supernatural world exists to learning that she half belongs to it, to also finding out that there are some factions out there that just want to kill her because she is a halfling. The paranormal world is still a secret to mortals in Ms. Peeler’s novel and she has created a rich landscape that includes many different paranormal beings, the rules that govern them, and the territories they can exist in. I think it is one of my favorite parts of the Jane True novels, all the different creatures that exist and we meet new ones with each novel. Another favorite is Jane’s inner dialogue � she is so snarky and self-depricating it is hilarious and I have to admit I love her pop cultural references � it makes me love the books even more because you never know what’s going to come out of her mouth or her thoughts. And lastly I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the men in Jane’s life, Ryu her hot vampire lover is always good for a sexy romp and Anyan � her protector and friend. There are some interesting developments in both these relationships that I can’t wait to read more about in the next novel.
Jane has dealt with a lot in the past few months, from learning that the a supernatural world exists to learning that she half belongs to it, to also finding out that there are some factions out there that just want to kill her because she is a halfling. The paranormal world is still a secret to mortals in Ms. Peeler’s novel and she has created a rich landscape that includes many different paranormal beings, the rules that govern them, and the territories they can exist in. I think it is one of my favorite parts of the Jane True novels, all the different creatures that exist and we meet new ones with each novel. Another favorite is Jane’s inner dialogue � she is so snarky and self-depricating it is hilarious and I have to admit I love her pop cultural references � it makes me love the books even more because you never know what’s going to come out of her mouth or her thoughts. And lastly I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the men in Jane’s life, Ryu her hot vampire lover is always good for a sexy romp and Anyan � her protector and friend. There are some interesting developments in both these relationships that I can’t wait to read more about in the next novel.
July 21, 2010
My thoughts...Tracking The Tempest is my kind of book-interesting characters, magical worlds, and just the right amount of humor.
Tracking The Tempest is book two in Nicole Peeler's Jane True series. If you are new to the series, I recommend you start with Tempest Rising. This second book has snark, more magic, move adventure, and more romance. Jane leaves the comfort of her Rockabill home to spend some time in Boston. This change in setting really opened up the doors for a bunch of new paranormal creatures, both good and evil. We meet probably one of the scariest beings in paranormal literature in Boston, Graeme. This character gave me chills and made me sleep with the light on for a week. We still get to read about our favorites including Iris, Nell, Grizzie, and Anyan (sigh). Let's talk about Anyan. In book one we learned he was smart, cunning,mysterious, and sexy. In book two, he is all of that and then some. I can't wait to learn more about this character in Tempest's Legacy. Did I mention sexy?
Tracking The Tempest gives readers plenty of page-turning action. The new halfling called Conleth keeps everyone on their toes. Boston provides the perfect backdrop for a good mystery. This one is perfect for readers who like to solve a crime while enjoying a little romance. Peeler's magical world grows more complex and interesting. She immerses readers into the fantasy without confusing them. Jane's character growth is reflected in her increased abilities, personal strength, and blooming confidence. I look forward to seeing how her characters continues to grow.
At the end of the book, readers get a taste of book three, Tempest's Legacy. I am not sure when it will be released, but I do know it is not soon enough.
Tracking The Tempest is book two in Nicole Peeler's Jane True series. If you are new to the series, I recommend you start with Tempest Rising. This second book has snark, more magic, move adventure, and more romance. Jane leaves the comfort of her Rockabill home to spend some time in Boston. This change in setting really opened up the doors for a bunch of new paranormal creatures, both good and evil. We meet probably one of the scariest beings in paranormal literature in Boston, Graeme. This character gave me chills and made me sleep with the light on for a week. We still get to read about our favorites including Iris, Nell, Grizzie, and Anyan (sigh). Let's talk about Anyan. In book one we learned he was smart, cunning,mysterious, and sexy. In book two, he is all of that and then some. I can't wait to learn more about this character in Tempest's Legacy. Did I mention sexy?
Tracking The Tempest gives readers plenty of page-turning action. The new halfling called Conleth keeps everyone on their toes. Boston provides the perfect backdrop for a good mystery. This one is perfect for readers who like to solve a crime while enjoying a little romance. Peeler's magical world grows more complex and interesting. She immerses readers into the fantasy without confusing them. Jane's character growth is reflected in her increased abilities, personal strength, and blooming confidence. I look forward to seeing how her characters continues to grow.
At the end of the book, readers get a taste of book three, Tempest's Legacy. I am not sure when it will be released, but I do know it is not soon enough.
January 19, 2011
Originally Posted at:
This book was as much about Jane playing catch-up with her thoughts and emotions as it was about the crazy psycho-killa. Jane has finally released herself from the emotional prison she's been locked away in since her first love died years before. But is she ready for a new relationship? Does she understand how that's suppose to be/feel. Since I absolutely adore Jane, it was great to watch her open up. It was even better that it didn't change our beloved/hilarious/surprising heroine.
Right now, the otherwise very sophisticated vampire by my side had a mouth saying "I'm so glad you're here, Miss True." But what his eyebrows were saying was "I'ma rock yo' shit, shorty." I liked what both his mouth and his eyebrows had to say, so I strained up on my tippy-toes to kiss them each in turn. Ryu obliged me by stooping into kiss range.
"I'm glad I'm here too, " I told him, trying to get my own eyebrows to say "I'ma rock you right back, boo," but I managed only to look constipated.
At the same time, everything is officially hitting the fan among the supernaturals. There's a crazy serial killer on the loose that leads Jane, Ryu, and Anyan into a nasty world of nightmare-proportion experiments aimed at half-breeds like Jane. At every turn she seemed to be under attack, setting a fast-paced story. Her relationship with Ryu and others are evolving and I for one was extremely happy with the outcome. Peeler's second book in the Jane True series has a continuity that make this feel like Act II of a larger tale. She introduces us to a list of new characters though, helping the story remain interesting and distinct.
Bottom Line: Great follow up to a new-to-me series. I am desperate for more.
This book was as much about Jane playing catch-up with her thoughts and emotions as it was about the crazy psycho-killa. Jane has finally released herself from the emotional prison she's been locked away in since her first love died years before. But is she ready for a new relationship? Does she understand how that's suppose to be/feel. Since I absolutely adore Jane, it was great to watch her open up. It was even better that it didn't change our beloved/hilarious/surprising heroine.
Right now, the otherwise very sophisticated vampire by my side had a mouth saying "I'm so glad you're here, Miss True." But what his eyebrows were saying was "I'ma rock yo' shit, shorty." I liked what both his mouth and his eyebrows had to say, so I strained up on my tippy-toes to kiss them each in turn. Ryu obliged me by stooping into kiss range.
"I'm glad I'm here too, " I told him, trying to get my own eyebrows to say "I'ma rock you right back, boo," but I managed only to look constipated.
At the same time, everything is officially hitting the fan among the supernaturals. There's a crazy serial killer on the loose that leads Jane, Ryu, and Anyan into a nasty world of nightmare-proportion experiments aimed at half-breeds like Jane. At every turn she seemed to be under attack, setting a fast-paced story. Her relationship with Ryu and others are evolving and I for one was extremely happy with the outcome. Peeler's second book in the Jane True series has a continuity that make this feel like Act II of a larger tale. She introduces us to a list of new characters though, helping the story remain interesting and distinct.
Bottom Line: Great follow up to a new-to-me series. I am desperate for more.
August 8, 2013
I think one of the things I love most about this series, is that Jane evolves and grows some with every book. Too many books these days are all about big action and or big worlds, but they forget to show any character growth. Just the difference in Jane between this book and the first is quiet large, and you can tell from the end that she is just going to continue growing and changing until she figures out who she is. I think it takes some talent to show those types of personality changes, as well as those moments of growth, in a character without them seeming forced or unnatural, and they work really well in these books.
The other thing I love about this series in general is the interplay between the characters. There are so many great characters throughout that are part of the supporting cast, and they vary in each book with some overlapping. I think to make such great characters that are fun, interesting, unique, and yet stand out without overshadowing the leads is impressive.
Overall, I really enjoy these books because they are well done, they're a fun, fast read, and you can tell that the author had a larger plot in mind from the get-go and she is unraveling it at a perfect rate, making each book feel complete but leaving the reader knowing there is more to come. I can't wait to see how she wraps it all up in the final book, and I'm incredibly glad (but also incredibly sad) to know that the series has an end and the author isn't making it last forever just because it sells.
As before, I definitely recommend these books to anyone who likes a light-hearted Urban Fantasy with a touch of romance and humor, as well as a bit of darkness.
The other thing I love about this series in general is the interplay between the characters. There are so many great characters throughout that are part of the supporting cast, and they vary in each book with some overlapping. I think to make such great characters that are fun, interesting, unique, and yet stand out without overshadowing the leads is impressive.
Overall, I really enjoy these books because they are well done, they're a fun, fast read, and you can tell that the author had a larger plot in mind from the get-go and she is unraveling it at a perfect rate, making each book feel complete but leaving the reader knowing there is more to come. I can't wait to see how she wraps it all up in the final book, and I'm incredibly glad (but also incredibly sad) to know that the series has an end and the author isn't making it last forever just because it sells.
As before, I definitely recommend these books to anyone who likes a light-hearted Urban Fantasy with a touch of romance and humor, as well as a bit of darkness.
January 2, 2013
Move over, Mercy Thompson, Kate Daniels, Sookie Stackhouse, and the other strong, wonderful woman characters that populate today's urban fantasy landscape. I love you all dearly, and hold my breath for your new books, but it is time to scootch over a bit, as Jane True has come to town! I just found Jane while perusing my local bookstore, and I couldn't be happier.
Jane is a very complex character. If you really haven't had any "life experience" (read here, if you don't understand loss, mourning, or the pain of living where everyone knows you, and holds your family's history against you) then you probably won't understand Jane. But if you do, her strength of character can absolutely rock your world, like it did mine.
Jane is a reluctant hero, and yet her ability to roll with the punches and become more than she had ever thought she could be is a HUGE encouragement to women who have been drug through the tunnel and come out on the other side stronger than ever.
The characters are well developed, the storyline keeps you guessing, and it is great fun watching how Jane grows and learns her own strengths - strengths she never dreamed she could possess. And she has a tremendous sense of humour, and a potty mouth to match. I have been spending my mornings, before work, sitting outside in the sun, reading Jane's exploits while laughing laughing like a loon at her hysterical dialog (her mental libido cracks have me rolling on the floor). She is strong, strong-willed, and one of the most likable of all the tough female urban fantasy characters that I adore.
Jane is a very complex character. If you really haven't had any "life experience" (read here, if you don't understand loss, mourning, or the pain of living where everyone knows you, and holds your family's history against you) then you probably won't understand Jane. But if you do, her strength of character can absolutely rock your world, like it did mine.
Jane is a reluctant hero, and yet her ability to roll with the punches and become more than she had ever thought she could be is a HUGE encouragement to women who have been drug through the tunnel and come out on the other side stronger than ever.
The characters are well developed, the storyline keeps you guessing, and it is great fun watching how Jane grows and learns her own strengths - strengths she never dreamed she could possess. And she has a tremendous sense of humour, and a potty mouth to match. I have been spending my mornings, before work, sitting outside in the sun, reading Jane's exploits while laughing laughing like a loon at her hysterical dialog (her mental libido cracks have me rolling on the floor). She is strong, strong-willed, and one of the most likable of all the tough female urban fantasy characters that I adore.
December 22, 2017
Jane's supernatural troubles continue: What is supposed to be a fun and sexy Valentine's weekend stay with Ryu in his Boston home is cut short when they are almost incinerated by a half-ifrit who has escaped from some sort of creepy lab and been on on killing spree ever since - and for some reasons, he's developed an obsession with Jane and follows her home, threatening her family and friends.
Meh. I wasn't all that much into the first book, and it's no different with this one. I just don't particularly care about any of it, characters (annoying, mostly), romance (Ryu is a condescending asshole and I'm just really not feeling it), humour (too silly for my liking) or plot (so very predictable). Moving on to something else.
Meh. I wasn't all that much into the first book, and it's no different with this one. I just don't particularly care about any of it, characters (annoying, mostly), romance (Ryu is a condescending asshole and I'm just really not feeling it), humour (too silly for my liking) or plot (so very predictable). Moving on to something else.
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