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The Beacon Hill Sorcerer #4
Mastering the Flames
Guilt-ridden after the massacre of his family, Isaac Salvatore turned to binge drinking to escape the pain. Now twenty-four years old, Isaac is a recovering alcoholic woefully out of practice in the magical arts, leaving his fire affinity hanging on the edge of disaster. After a month of rehab, he returns to Beacon Hill and his family, determined to remain sober, learn to control his magic, and figure out a plan for his life that doesn't involve drinking.
Constantine Batiste is the oldest, most powerful vampire in the city. Born in ancient Gaul, the bastard son of a Celtic king, his long life has been shrouded in tragedy and horrors. Recent mistakes have left him wary and determined to guard his clan from all foes. When two of his clan members fall victim to an ancient evil, he summons the Necromancer of Boston for aid. Accompanying his older brother to the Tower is the handsome young fire mage once wounded by Constantine's arrogance, and their encounter reignites an attraction that burns within both Constantine and Isaac.
The answer to who is targeting the vampires of Boston is buried in the dark, early days of Constantine's transition to an immortal life. Isaac finds himself saddled with a painful insight into the evil cutting a swath through the supernatural population of Boston. While his brother, Angel, takes over the hunt to find and stop the threat to the city, Isaac struggles to find a balance between helping his brother and finding his own purpose and place in the world, free from his brother's shadow.
Falling in love wasn’t part of his plan, but mastering the flames that burn between him and Constantine soon becomes the most important thing in his life, even as an ancient evil seeks to destroy them.
Mastering the Flames is the fourth book in The Beacon Hill Sorcerer series and is not a standalone. The series should be read in order for maximum enjoyment and understanding of the plot and characters.
Constantine Batiste is the oldest, most powerful vampire in the city. Born in ancient Gaul, the bastard son of a Celtic king, his long life has been shrouded in tragedy and horrors. Recent mistakes have left him wary and determined to guard his clan from all foes. When two of his clan members fall victim to an ancient evil, he summons the Necromancer of Boston for aid. Accompanying his older brother to the Tower is the handsome young fire mage once wounded by Constantine's arrogance, and their encounter reignites an attraction that burns within both Constantine and Isaac.
The answer to who is targeting the vampires of Boston is buried in the dark, early days of Constantine's transition to an immortal life. Isaac finds himself saddled with a painful insight into the evil cutting a swath through the supernatural population of Boston. While his brother, Angel, takes over the hunt to find and stop the threat to the city, Isaac struggles to find a balance between helping his brother and finding his own purpose and place in the world, free from his brother's shadow.
Falling in love wasn’t part of his plan, but mastering the flames that burn between him and Constantine soon becomes the most important thing in his life, even as an ancient evil seeks to destroy them.
Mastering the Flames is the fourth book in The Beacon Hill Sorcerer series and is not a standalone. The series should be read in order for maximum enjoyment and understanding of the plot and characters.
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 4, 2019
307 people are currently reading
668 people want to read
About the author
S.J. Himes
20books1,436followersSoon to be retired former pen name of author Sheena Jolie. See that profile for more up to date info.
I will be moving all my titles over the course of 2022 to my new author name, Sheena Jolie.
If you have questions for me, and want an answer sooner rather than later, find me on Facebook or Twitter as Sheena Jolie.
Website under construction.
I also write as Revella Hawthorne. I write mainly gay romance and erotica, but I am branching out into polyamorous groupings and LGBT+ characters.
Saving Silas is my only contemporary. Everything else is paranormal, urban fantasy, or scifi/alternate universe.
I'm a nomad--I move a lot. My health is sporadic, so when I'm feeling well enough is when I'm writing. Which is good, as otherwise, I think my suffering translates to boring stories. ;)
I've learned the hard way that I can't do release dates until a book is 100% DONE. No projected dates anymore. For up to date and accurate information, find me on Facebook and Twitter. I RARELY come to GR. It'll be months before I'm back again.
Any books I have reviewed are my own opinions and done so without malice. I won't review a book anymore if I can't give it 3 stars or higher. Most of my reviews are based upon how a book makes me FEEL. Entirely subjective and personal. Exceptions are in cases of plagiarism and intellectual property theft or a massively horrible formatting job or erroneous content (ie the title and blurb don't match the interior.)
I will be moving all my titles over the course of 2022 to my new author name, Sheena Jolie.
If you have questions for me, and want an answer sooner rather than later, find me on Facebook or Twitter as Sheena Jolie.
Website under construction.
I also write as Revella Hawthorne. I write mainly gay romance and erotica, but I am branching out into polyamorous groupings and LGBT+ characters.
Saving Silas is my only contemporary. Everything else is paranormal, urban fantasy, or scifi/alternate universe.
I'm a nomad--I move a lot. My health is sporadic, so when I'm feeling well enough is when I'm writing. Which is good, as otherwise, I think my suffering translates to boring stories. ;)
I've learned the hard way that I can't do release dates until a book is 100% DONE. No projected dates anymore. For up to date and accurate information, find me on Facebook and Twitter. I RARELY come to GR. It'll be months before I'm back again.
Any books I have reviewed are my own opinions and done so without malice. I won't review a book anymore if I can't give it 3 stars or higher. Most of my reviews are based upon how a book makes me FEEL. Entirely subjective and personal. Exceptions are in cases of plagiarism and intellectual property theft or a massively horrible formatting job or erroneous content (ie the title and blurb don't match the interior.)
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October 3, 2019Book is available starting Oct. 4th, 2019. Happy reading.
March 31, 2025
4.5 Stars
There’s no denying this book was one of my top 5 most anticipated releases of the year (2019), and thankfully, it lived up to all my expectations and more.
For the first time in this long-running series, we get to properly step away from the POV’s of the original main characters, necromancer Angelus Salvatore and his vampire-mate Simeon, and, instead, we get to delve into the daily lives and personal struggles of Angel’s younger brother, Isaac, the fire mage, and the deliciously alluring and powerful Constantine Batiste, the centuries old City Master of the Boston vampire clan.
Isaac and Batiste have been circling each other for a while now, much to Angel’s chagrin, but fate can only be denied for so long, and when a dark force comes to town—one seemingly intent on using forbidden blood magic to destroy Batiste’s vampires—the whole gang must come together, once again, to hunt down the mysterious bad guy and save the day. This, in turn, forces Isaac and Batiste into close proximity, and soon enough, Isaac finds himself unable and unwilling to deny his attraction to the powerful vampire, finally leading them into a truly epic love affair that will change their lives for eternity.
This was another action-packed and romantic addition to this addictive series, and although I adore Angel and Simeon and could happily read about them for years to come, it was still fun to get to focus on a newer couple for a change of pace.
Isaac was previously the character throughout the series whom I would probably say was my least favourite among the wonderful cast, but having now experienced the true depth of his pain and suffering first hand, and baring witness to his inner strength and personal resolve to persevere and protect those he loves at all cost, in the face of constant emotional and physical blows, definitely added fuel to my fire and helped his character grow in my personal esteem.
Batiste, with his raw magnetism and alluring sense of power and confidence, was always a favourite of mine. He was the main reason I was ecstatic to get to this story, and it was an absolute treat to get to delve into his past a little and discover what made the man that become the powerful vampire leader. His adoration for Isaac was absolutely heart-melting and panty-melting, in equal measure; these two were just lovely together and I hope against hope that we get to see much more of them as the series progresses.
I appreciated how much page time the other main characters shared with Isaac and Batiste. Angel, Simeon, Daniel, Rory and mighty little Eroch (the best book dragon EVER) were all present enough to satisfy my hunger, all playing pivotal roles in the ensuing fight against the latest evil foe. This really is an ensemble piece of epic proportions and I’m just grateful that everyone is allowed their moment to shine. I particularly enjoyed the little glimpses we got of the growing affection between young apprentice Daniel and ancient fae warrior Rory, who are sure to share one hell of a romance when their time comes, and I personally CAN NOT WAIT!!!
Once again, I can’t recommend this series highly enough to any and all fans of M/M urban fantasy. Do yourself a favour, if you haven’t already, and immerse yourself in this wonderfully written, deliciously romantic, purely entertaining series—you won’t regret it! <3
Read #2: June 2024
No love has been lost on this re-read, with each book and each character only rising in my esteem as I rehash this wonderful series in prep for the long-awaited new release ().
I love the way history is weaved through the fabric of the older characters within the story (the vamps and the fae), especially enjoying the flashback scenes Himes/Jolie added in this sequel, of Batiste’s human past as a young bastard prince in Gaul, fighting in the Gallic Wars. It was a visceral picture painted of an ancient time, people, and place, and I enjoyed this brief but impactful element of the story a great deal, even with all the alt-history magical artistic liberties taken.
I also think I reacted a lot more compassionately to Isaac’s addiction struggles this go-around, impressed with the tone and telling of his personal struggles as an arc across the series. Even with the magical therapy element, his issues and emotional struggles were given a realistic weight and integrity I appreciated to a greater degree on this re-read.
As a M/M urban fantasy book-couple, Isaac and Batiste stand well on their own, even though it’s hard to outshine Angel and Simeon. I feel like I liked this story even better on a re-read, which is such a happy realisation.
The Beacon Hill Sorcerer Series
Book 1 - (4.5 Stars)
Book 2 - (4.5 Stars)
Book 3 - (5 Stars)
Novella 3.5 - (4 Stars)
Book 4 - (4.5 Stars)
Book 5 - (5 Stars)
Novella 5.5 - (4 Stars)
Book 6 - (pending...)
There’s no denying this book was one of my top 5 most anticipated releases of the year (2019), and thankfully, it lived up to all my expectations and more.
For the first time in this long-running series, we get to properly step away from the POV’s of the original main characters, necromancer Angelus Salvatore and his vampire-mate Simeon, and, instead, we get to delve into the daily lives and personal struggles of Angel’s younger brother, Isaac, the fire mage, and the deliciously alluring and powerful Constantine Batiste, the centuries old City Master of the Boston vampire clan.
Isaac and Batiste have been circling each other for a while now, much to Angel’s chagrin, but fate can only be denied for so long, and when a dark force comes to town—one seemingly intent on using forbidden blood magic to destroy Batiste’s vampires—the whole gang must come together, once again, to hunt down the mysterious bad guy and save the day. This, in turn, forces Isaac and Batiste into close proximity, and soon enough, Isaac finds himself unable and unwilling to deny his attraction to the powerful vampire, finally leading them into a truly epic love affair that will change their lives for eternity.
This was another action-packed and romantic addition to this addictive series, and although I adore Angel and Simeon and could happily read about them for years to come, it was still fun to get to focus on a newer couple for a change of pace.
Isaac was previously the character throughout the series whom I would probably say was my least favourite among the wonderful cast, but having now experienced the true depth of his pain and suffering first hand, and baring witness to his inner strength and personal resolve to persevere and protect those he loves at all cost, in the face of constant emotional and physical blows, definitely added fuel to my fire and helped his character grow in my personal esteem.
Batiste, with his raw magnetism and alluring sense of power and confidence, was always a favourite of mine. He was the main reason I was ecstatic to get to this story, and it was an absolute treat to get to delve into his past a little and discover what made the man that become the powerful vampire leader. His adoration for Isaac was absolutely heart-melting and panty-melting, in equal measure; these two were just lovely together and I hope against hope that we get to see much more of them as the series progresses.
I appreciated how much page time the other main characters shared with Isaac and Batiste. Angel, Simeon, Daniel, Rory and mighty little Eroch (the best book dragon EVER) were all present enough to satisfy my hunger, all playing pivotal roles in the ensuing fight against the latest evil foe. This really is an ensemble piece of epic proportions and I’m just grateful that everyone is allowed their moment to shine. I particularly enjoyed the little glimpses we got of the growing affection between young apprentice Daniel and ancient fae warrior Rory, who are sure to share one hell of a romance when their time comes, and I personally CAN NOT WAIT!!!
Once again, I can’t recommend this series highly enough to any and all fans of M/M urban fantasy. Do yourself a favour, if you haven’t already, and immerse yourself in this wonderfully written, deliciously romantic, purely entertaining series—you won’t regret it! <3
Read #2: June 2024
No love has been lost on this re-read, with each book and each character only rising in my esteem as I rehash this wonderful series in prep for the long-awaited new release ().
I love the way history is weaved through the fabric of the older characters within the story (the vamps and the fae), especially enjoying the flashback scenes Himes/Jolie added in this sequel, of Batiste’s human past as a young bastard prince in Gaul, fighting in the Gallic Wars. It was a visceral picture painted of an ancient time, people, and place, and I enjoyed this brief but impactful element of the story a great deal, even with all the alt-history magical artistic liberties taken.
I also think I reacted a lot more compassionately to Isaac’s addiction struggles this go-around, impressed with the tone and telling of his personal struggles as an arc across the series. Even with the magical therapy element, his issues and emotional struggles were given a realistic weight and integrity I appreciated to a greater degree on this re-read.
As a M/M urban fantasy book-couple, Isaac and Batiste stand well on their own, even though it’s hard to outshine Angel and Simeon. I feel like I liked this story even better on a re-read, which is such a happy realisation.
The Beacon Hill Sorcerer Series
Book 1 - (4.5 Stars)
Book 2 - (4.5 Stars)
Book 3 - (5 Stars)
Novella 3.5 - (4 Stars)
Book 4 - (4.5 Stars)
Book 5 - (5 Stars)
Novella 5.5 - (4 Stars)
Book 6 - (pending...)
August 6, 2021
Re-read: 06.08.2021
The ending is actually quite... anti-climatic. That said, I'm glad Isaac finally has someone who can help him heal. Overall, while this is a... cute story, I heavily missed Angel being the main character.
New Rating: 3 stars.
First read review:
The fourth book in the series centers around Angel's brother, Isaac Salvatore (23) and Simon's Master, Constantine ‘Constans� ‘Connie� Batiste (2123?). While it was nice to see Isaac growing into the man he's meant to be, the book itself wasn't all that. To be frankly honest, I wasn't all that into the book. I thought I would really enjoy this one since S.J. Himes writes amazing stories and I seems to really like them all, but this one just didn't hit right. I might be because I'm still a bit ill and my eyes struggles to focus because of dryness. Who knows. Anyways, the author doesn't hide who will be someones love interest at all, so we all knew Isaac and Constans would happen, I just had expected something more... climatic?
Overall, I was bored, I skimmed more than I want to admit and I'm not overly sure whenever I will read Daniel's story or not when it comes out. That being said, I'm not comparing Isaac with Angel at all. Who Isaac is has nothing to do with the story being boring. Isaac is a good character who is suffering and Constans is exactly what he needs. I think I wanted Constans to be more of an alpha male though... considering he's the City Master... However, I loved seeing more of Angel and Simeon. They are a awesome couple.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Book Four.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Simeon ‘Celt� Ó Daimhín.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5 stars.
The ending is actually quite... anti-climatic. That said, I'm glad Isaac finally has someone who can help him heal. Overall, while this is a... cute story, I heavily missed Angel being the main character.
New Rating: 3 stars.
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Had Actually Expected More*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
First read review:
The fourth book in the series centers around Angel's brother, Isaac Salvatore (23) and Simon's Master, Constantine ‘Constans� ‘Connie� Batiste (2123?). While it was nice to see Isaac growing into the man he's meant to be, the book itself wasn't all that. To be frankly honest, I wasn't all that into the book. I thought I would really enjoy this one since S.J. Himes writes amazing stories and I seems to really like them all, but this one just didn't hit right. I might be because I'm still a bit ill and my eyes struggles to focus because of dryness. Who knows. Anyways, the author doesn't hide who will be someones love interest at all, so we all knew Isaac and Constans would happen, I just had expected something more... climatic?
Overall, I was bored, I skimmed more than I want to admit and I'm not overly sure whenever I will read Daniel's story or not when it comes out. That being said, I'm not comparing Isaac with Angel at all. Who Isaac is has nothing to do with the story being boring. Isaac is a good character who is suffering and Constans is exactly what he needs. I think I wanted Constans to be more of an alpha male though... considering he's the City Master... However, I loved seeing more of Angel and Simeon. They are a awesome couple.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Book Four.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Simeon ‘Celt� Ó Daimhín.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5 stars.
January 6, 2022
3.5 Hearts for the Audio —� 4 for the Story!
The audio for the was my first foray into Joel Leslie, and though it was a very interesting introduction, and though he’s not in my top 10 narrators, I will forever identify him with this series, which is a favorite of mine in the urban fantasy paranormal genre.
Again, Leslie brings the dramatics and all the characters to life, and I was entertained, enjoying my revisit into this world. It only hammered down that I’m jonesing for the next book that is nowhere in sight, and I need it desperately.
Of note, this was generously offered via new to me vendor, audiobooks.com. I’m not sure if this has happened to other listeners, but my reception via their app constantly shut off, having me either repeatedly push play on my phone over and over again, clear my phone and reopen the app, or just give up entirely for the time being and try again later. I have never had that happen with amazon’s audible app, and suffice it to say, I probably won’t be buying from audiobooks.com if I can help it, keeping to the tried and reliable true.
Regardless, thank you to the author/publisher for the audio in exchange for an honest review
—ĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔ�
Original Review
There’s not much to say except that this belongs in the top MM urban fantasy series that I’ve had the pleasure of reading.
Himes as always, brings great world building, continuing an awesome AU featuring mundane humans, practitioners, and all sorts of creatures who live together harmoniously, or not.
This time around, Angel’s brother Isaac, is the main attraction and he’s just gotten out of rehab for alcoholism, relearning his new life, a life where he’s actually sober and present. It’s a huge adjustment and surprisingly at his side is the vampire and Master of the City, Batiste.
Bridging Batiste's past with the present, an ancient evil, thought to be eradicated, comes back to endanger the lives of our beloved group of characters, as well as all of Boston. In between Isaac and Batiste falling in love, there was plenty of room for paranormal ass kicking!
Despite this being the longest entry to date and though flashbacks aren’t my favorite (they only occur in the first third) what I enjoyed the most was the ensemble cast, especially Eroch. Always sexy and snarky, this had a well thought out recovery process for Isaac, bringing some really intense feels, interspersed with dashes of ancient history, action, and magical battles both internal and external.
Again, a wonderful addition to this series, ending on a fabulous high note that made my wish from seem more a reality to come!! Yes!!
The audio for the was my first foray into Joel Leslie, and though it was a very interesting introduction, and though he’s not in my top 10 narrators, I will forever identify him with this series, which is a favorite of mine in the urban fantasy paranormal genre.
Again, Leslie brings the dramatics and all the characters to life, and I was entertained, enjoying my revisit into this world. It only hammered down that I’m jonesing for the next book that is nowhere in sight, and I need it desperately.
Of note, this was generously offered via new to me vendor, audiobooks.com. I’m not sure if this has happened to other listeners, but my reception via their app constantly shut off, having me either repeatedly push play on my phone over and over again, clear my phone and reopen the app, or just give up entirely for the time being and try again later. I have never had that happen with amazon’s audible app, and suffice it to say, I probably won’t be buying from audiobooks.com if I can help it, keeping to the tried and reliable true.
Regardless, thank you to the author/publisher for the audio in exchange for an honest review
—ĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔ�
Original Review
There’s not much to say except that this belongs in the top MM urban fantasy series that I’ve had the pleasure of reading.
Himes as always, brings great world building, continuing an awesome AU featuring mundane humans, practitioners, and all sorts of creatures who live together harmoniously, or not.
This time around, Angel’s brother Isaac, is the main attraction and he’s just gotten out of rehab for alcoholism, relearning his new life, a life where he’s actually sober and present. It’s a huge adjustment and surprisingly at his side is the vampire and Master of the City, Batiste.
Bridging Batiste's past with the present, an ancient evil, thought to be eradicated, comes back to endanger the lives of our beloved group of characters, as well as all of Boston. In between Isaac and Batiste falling in love, there was plenty of room for paranormal ass kicking!
Despite this being the longest entry to date and though flashbacks aren’t my favorite (they only occur in the first third) what I enjoyed the most was the ensemble cast, especially Eroch. Always sexy and snarky, this had a well thought out recovery process for Isaac, bringing some really intense feels, interspersed with dashes of ancient history, action, and magical battles both internal and external.
Again, a wonderful addition to this series, ending on a fabulous high note that made my wish from seem more a reality to come!! Yes!!
February 20, 2025
Reread December 2023
You know...each time I read this, I like it better. I do love these two together, just wish we'd gotten more of them.
Reread April 2021
So after I read my original review, I was left scratching my head. Maybe it's because I'd already read it, but I found it more romantic this time. I love the two of them together. One thing that did bother me this time was Isaac crying all the time. I get his struggles with his addiction and all, but he cries a lot. it annoyed me. But it was still a good reread.
Originally read October 2019
Isaac is out of Nevermore and trying to find himself again...where he fits in as he struggles with his recovery and guilt. But there is a blood mage on the loose and he has set his sights on Isaac. He wants to help but he is going to need Constans' presence to get through it.
I have been waiting for Isaac's book for a long time. I really felt for him and his feelings of guilt after the Massacre. And oh boy, I wanted Constans to get a story. Who doesn't love a hot, cocky vampire who just takes what he wants even if it did get him hexed.
I absolutely loved both Isaac and Constans. I loved seeing Isaac coming into his own and finding himself without the alcohol and the guilt. And Constans *sigh* soooo swoon-worthy he just made me melt. I loved how he was with Isaac, soft but protective and willing to take the time to woo him. So there were lots of things I absolutely loved.
But, I was a little bit disappointed too. It took me longer than I expected to trudge through the first 25%. It was mostly Isaac's release from Nevermore and Constans' history prior to becoming a vampire. And while I feel this part was important to see, I think I would have preferred it spread out through the story. Once Constans and Isaac reconnect, it picked up for me and I was completely invested in the story.
I'm a romance reader to the core so, I wish there had been more emphasis on Isaac and Con's relationship. The moments we get are totally worth it and are swoony. Con is a charmer for sure. But I wanted to see more of them building their relationship and love. I would have liked more time of Con being able to drink from Isaac as well.
One thing I absolutely loved about Constantine in the other books was he was hot and cocky and he knew it. He commanded attention from everyone. Just look how he tested Angel. You knew he loved his vampires and would protect them, but he was also a ruler who could get anything he wanted. We know what happened when he tried to get Isaac without his permission and I suspect the plan was to see him a changed man after that incident, but I was hoping he would keep his original personality at least with others. He just seemed to go soft with everyone. I love an alpha character who goes totally soft for his man but keeps that hardness with others. I didn't get to see that here and I was disappointed.
I am looking forward to Daniel and Rory's book. Daniel needs patience and love and Rory is just the one to give it to him.
You know...each time I read this, I like it better. I do love these two together, just wish we'd gotten more of them.
Reread April 2021
So after I read my original review, I was left scratching my head. Maybe it's because I'd already read it, but I found it more romantic this time. I love the two of them together. One thing that did bother me this time was Isaac crying all the time. I get his struggles with his addiction and all, but he cries a lot. it annoyed me. But it was still a good reread.
Originally read October 2019
Isaac is out of Nevermore and trying to find himself again...where he fits in as he struggles with his recovery and guilt. But there is a blood mage on the loose and he has set his sights on Isaac. He wants to help but he is going to need Constans' presence to get through it.
I have been waiting for Isaac's book for a long time. I really felt for him and his feelings of guilt after the Massacre. And oh boy, I wanted Constans to get a story. Who doesn't love a hot, cocky vampire who just takes what he wants even if it did get him hexed.
I absolutely loved both Isaac and Constans. I loved seeing Isaac coming into his own and finding himself without the alcohol and the guilt. And Constans *sigh* soooo swoon-worthy he just made me melt. I loved how he was with Isaac, soft but protective and willing to take the time to woo him. So there were lots of things I absolutely loved.
But, I was a little bit disappointed too. It took me longer than I expected to trudge through the first 25%. It was mostly Isaac's release from Nevermore and Constans' history prior to becoming a vampire. And while I feel this part was important to see, I think I would have preferred it spread out through the story. Once Constans and Isaac reconnect, it picked up for me and I was completely invested in the story.
I'm a romance reader to the core so, I wish there had been more emphasis on Isaac and Con's relationship. The moments we get are totally worth it and are swoony. Con is a charmer for sure. But I wanted to see more of them building their relationship and love. I would have liked more time of Con being able to drink from Isaac as well.
One thing I absolutely loved about Constantine in the other books was he was hot and cocky and he knew it. He commanded attention from everyone. Just look how he tested Angel. You knew he loved his vampires and would protect them, but he was also a ruler who could get anything he wanted. We know what happened when he tried to get Isaac without his permission and I suspect the plan was to see him a changed man after that incident, but I was hoping he would keep his original personality at least with others. He just seemed to go soft with everyone. I love an alpha character who goes totally soft for his man but keeps that hardness with others. I didn't get to see that here and I was disappointed.
I am looking forward to Daniel and Rory's book. Daniel needs patience and love and Rory is just the one to give it to him.
March 7, 2021
If there is one thing we have learned in fiction it's that powerful vampires who are thousands of years old will always fall hopelessly in love with the youngest person in the room. A little pervy? Yes. But adorable? Also yes.
Well. Not always.
Never, in the history of womankind has a girl wanted to be called a spider monkey. At 900 years old you would think he would have figured that out.
I think it's the fact that the younger ones are less impressed by them. Let's face it, it doesn't come naturally for a 20 year old to defer to the wisdom of age and power. They can bring the snark like no one else.
Isaac, after being startled, once again, by the silent stalking of the most powerful, lethal vampire king:
"you're getting a bell, just like a housecat. A cute one, sky blue, with little plastic rhinestones on it and a tag that says PITA."
I also like that Constantine was fine with that as long as the diamonds are real because there is "nothing so tawdry as rhinestones." And, as a girl who likes shiny stuff and has nails painted in glitter and leopard glitter print right now, just call me a:
*dancing badly right now* *husband telling me to stop, for the love of all that is holy* *trying to revenge-twerk at him* *hurt my back, going to lay down*
I liked this book because the characters of Isaac and Constantine in no way resembled Angel and Simeon. They were totally separate people with different personalities. Angel is a hothead who charges head first into situations. Isaac is a broken person with anxiety attacks, addiction, and guilt that makes him super cautious and more of person who stays in the background instead of a fighter. Simeon is a respectful second to his master, Constantine, whereas Constantine is arrogant and in charge. Way different dynamics in the two relationships, and I appreciate that the author was able to achieve that.
There was slightly less action in this book than in the one before it but that was okay with me. We got to see the relationship building more without a gazillion fight scenes.
Now I am looking forward to the sorcerers apprentice and the fae royalty that is coming next.
Well. Not always.
Never, in the history of womankind has a girl wanted to be called a spider monkey. At 900 years old you would think he would have figured that out.
I think it's the fact that the younger ones are less impressed by them. Let's face it, it doesn't come naturally for a 20 year old to defer to the wisdom of age and power. They can bring the snark like no one else.
Isaac, after being startled, once again, by the silent stalking of the most powerful, lethal vampire king:
"you're getting a bell, just like a housecat. A cute one, sky blue, with little plastic rhinestones on it and a tag that says PITA."
I also like that Constantine was fine with that as long as the diamonds are real because there is "nothing so tawdry as rhinestones." And, as a girl who likes shiny stuff and has nails painted in glitter and leopard glitter print right now, just call me a:
*dancing badly right now* *husband telling me to stop, for the love of all that is holy* *trying to revenge-twerk at him* *hurt my back, going to lay down*
I liked this book because the characters of Isaac and Constantine in no way resembled Angel and Simeon. They were totally separate people with different personalities. Angel is a hothead who charges head first into situations. Isaac is a broken person with anxiety attacks, addiction, and guilt that makes him super cautious and more of person who stays in the background instead of a fighter. Simeon is a respectful second to his master, Constantine, whereas Constantine is arrogant and in charge. Way different dynamics in the two relationships, and I appreciate that the author was able to achieve that.
There was slightly less action in this book than in the one before it but that was okay with me. We got to see the relationship building more without a gazillion fight scenes.
Now I am looking forward to the sorcerers apprentice and the fae royalty that is coming next.
May 26, 2020
Firestorm!
Wow, so I was beyond fired up for this 4th book in the BHS series, and while I enjoyed it...it didn't blaze quite as brightly as I had hoped.
I think I've narrowed down why...
The first 3 books were centered around Angel and Simeon.
I LOVED watching them grow stronger and fall deeper in love.
I knew this book shifted focus and was about Isaac and Constantine but I didn't expect to shuffle backward and begin building a new path.
There's a lot of backstory about Constans and again, while it was entertaining I felt as if I was beginning a new series altogether.
History was heavy. I got distracted. I was expecting...something different.
Maybe if this was a spin-off I would have felt differently..but it just didn't feel like book 4.
Don't get me wrong! It wasn't bad by any means, it was good.
I am so glad Isaac tackled his demons and found his HEA.
I loved seeing them all come together and AM anxiously awaiting Danny and Rory's book.
* 3 stars*
Wow, so I was beyond fired up for this 4th book in the BHS series, and while I enjoyed it...it didn't blaze quite as brightly as I had hoped.
I think I've narrowed down why...
The first 3 books were centered around Angel and Simeon.
I LOVED watching them grow stronger and fall deeper in love.
I knew this book shifted focus and was about Isaac and Constantine but I didn't expect to shuffle backward and begin building a new path.
There's a lot of backstory about Constans and again, while it was entertaining I felt as if I was beginning a new series altogether.
History was heavy. I got distracted. I was expecting...something different.
Maybe if this was a spin-off I would have felt differently..but it just didn't feel like book 4.
Don't get me wrong! It wasn't bad by any means, it was good.
I am so glad Isaac tackled his demons and found his HEA.
I loved seeing them all come together and AM anxiously awaiting Danny and Rory's book.
* 3 stars*
May 29, 2024
Yes another re-read so I’m ready for The Necromancer’s War.
Re-read 17th - 19th September 2022
Re-read 11th - 13th March 2021
Before I start my review I have to say I’m a huge fan of this author and this series. If you like hot sexy vampires, sorcerers, magic, little dragons and M/M reads and you haven’t read this you should be asking yourself why.
Am I bias?
Totally.
This series won me over after the first chapter of the first book. The Necromancer’s Dance. And I just can’t get enough.
I’ve waited patiently (okay not so patiently) for what seems forever for this book. And I tried to take my time I really did but before I knew it I’d reached the end.
This is the fourth book and the first one not from Angels POV. This is Issac and Constantine’s story. It’s a different book at a slower pace and it’s absolutely
perfect for them.
It’s simply beautiful.
Issac is a recovering alcoholic. He sees himself as damaged and broken beyond repair. He can’t imagine anyone loving him just for him. Constantine is old. Over two thousand years old. And vampires only fall in love once.
There’s less action but more emotion. As Issac struggles to settle into life sober.
Issac drank far more than anyone realised. The guilt he feels over the massacre overshadowed everything else and he lost himself in alcohol. His life before Nevermore is a blur. Hazy memories fuelled by alcohol is all he’s got. He’s now facing a sober (hopefully) future. And he’s not sure how to do that. Life closes in around him. Especially with a blood mage threatening him and his family. But Constans is there for Issac every step of the way.
Constan knows he has to proceed with caution. He can’t push Issac but at over two thousand years old he has both time and patience on his side.
I absolutely loved these two. I mean seriously Constan has never been on a date. Wow.
I’ve waited so long for this book and it didn’t disappoint.
Don’t worry it’s not just Issac and Constan. We also get all our favourites Angel, Simeon, Daniel, Rory and Eroch the wee beastie.
I can’t wait for Daniel and Rory’s book. Especially with how this one finished. Thanks for that by the way I’m now facing another eager wait. It’s a wonder I have any finger nails left
Re-read 17th - 19th September 2022
Re-read 11th - 13th March 2021
Before I start my review I have to say I’m a huge fan of this author and this series. If you like hot sexy vampires, sorcerers, magic, little dragons and M/M reads and you haven’t read this you should be asking yourself why.
Am I bias?
Totally.
This series won me over after the first chapter of the first book. The Necromancer’s Dance. And I just can’t get enough.
I’ve waited patiently (okay not so patiently) for what seems forever for this book. And I tried to take my time I really did but before I knew it I’d reached the end.
This is the fourth book and the first one not from Angels POV. This is Issac and Constantine’s story. It’s a different book at a slower pace and it’s absolutely
perfect for them.
It’s simply beautiful.
Issac is a recovering alcoholic. He sees himself as damaged and broken beyond repair. He can’t imagine anyone loving him just for him. Constantine is old. Over two thousand years old. And vampires only fall in love once.
There’s less action but more emotion. As Issac struggles to settle into life sober.
Issac drank far more than anyone realised. The guilt he feels over the massacre overshadowed everything else and he lost himself in alcohol. His life before Nevermore is a blur. Hazy memories fuelled by alcohol is all he’s got. He’s now facing a sober (hopefully) future. And he’s not sure how to do that. Life closes in around him. Especially with a blood mage threatening him and his family. But Constans is there for Issac every step of the way.
Constan knows he has to proceed with caution. He can’t push Issac but at over two thousand years old he has both time and patience on his side.
I absolutely loved these two. I mean seriously Constan has never been on a date. Wow.
I’ve waited so long for this book and it didn’t disappoint.
Don’t worry it’s not just Issac and Constan. We also get all our favourites Angel, Simeon, Daniel, Rory and Eroch the wee beastie.
I can’t wait for Daniel and Rory’s book. Especially with how this one finished. Thanks for that by the way I’m now facing another eager wait. It’s a wonder I have any finger nails left
August 27, 2024
4,5 stars
Reread August 2024.
I actually adored this more than on a first read, I think. Hence a minor upgrade in my rating.
Excellent writing, character and relationship development. And mainly � it grabbed my heart big time.
Original review:
Another fabulous addition to this series!
Isaac is Angel’s younger brother by seven years, and he was a mere child when his family was wiped out by vampires. While this would be traumatic enough to leave deep scars, feeling responsible for all these events has made his life even more unbearable for years with alcohol a ‘solution� which has come to haunt him.
SJ Himes roles out his case sensitively and brilliantly. Isaac’s recovery feels on many accounts realistic, and it is tough to see him struggle just to get by. Most of all he has to find himself, to figure out his magic, what he wants to do with his life and his newfound clarity. And it’s a slow process, as it would be, with ups and downs , but a definite sign of light by the end of the book.
Please don’t think this is all gloom and doom. Of course, there are very dark moments, considering what Isaac is going through that’s inevitable, but there is also a clear sense of hope and moving forward throughout.
The romance adds a lot of heart-warming (and hot) moments, that’s for sure. I have no idea how one would feel if a two-thousand-year old vampire falls in love with you, and is utterly sweet and wonderfully protective with it. I liked how Isaac sees beyond the supernatural in Constans, sees the 26 years old man he was before he was turned and treats him accordingly. There’s definitely a bit of Salvatore sass in Isaac, too!
I also really liked that the author addresses the brotherly issues between Angel and Isaac, and how she deals with them.
Needless to say, I adored Constans (gorgeous, competent, authoritative and yet so sweet underneath!) and finding out more about his backstory was highly gratifying. I loved how all the different threads from past and present eventually made one complete picture! But maybe, I could have done with a bigger helping of his feelings and reasons for falling for Isaac.
As for the main plot � you’d never have guessed, lol - there is a(nother) monster loose in Boston, spelling major danger to vampires. Tense action, brilliantly colourful descriptions of magic and gritty fights are at the heart of this well-crafted mystery!
I have no idea what SJ Himes has in store for the books after book 5 (which is Daniel’s book), but I would not mind returning to Isaac to see what happens past his first steps to be the person he wants to be.
Highly recommended.
Reread August 2024.
I actually adored this more than on a first read, I think. Hence a minor upgrade in my rating.
Excellent writing, character and relationship development. And mainly � it grabbed my heart big time.
Original review:
Another fabulous addition to this series!
Isaac is Angel’s younger brother by seven years, and he was a mere child when his family was wiped out by vampires. While this would be traumatic enough to leave deep scars, feeling responsible for all these events has made his life even more unbearable for years with alcohol a ‘solution� which has come to haunt him.
SJ Himes roles out his case sensitively and brilliantly. Isaac’s recovery feels on many accounts realistic, and it is tough to see him struggle just to get by. Most of all he has to find himself, to figure out his magic, what he wants to do with his life and his newfound clarity. And it’s a slow process, as it would be, with ups and downs , but a definite sign of light by the end of the book.
Please don’t think this is all gloom and doom. Of course, there are very dark moments, considering what Isaac is going through that’s inevitable, but there is also a clear sense of hope and moving forward throughout.
The romance adds a lot of heart-warming (and hot) moments, that’s for sure. I have no idea how one would feel if a two-thousand-year old vampire falls in love with you, and is utterly sweet and wonderfully protective with it. I liked how Isaac sees beyond the supernatural in Constans, sees the 26 years old man he was before he was turned and treats him accordingly. There’s definitely a bit of Salvatore sass in Isaac, too!
I also really liked that the author addresses the brotherly issues between Angel and Isaac, and how she deals with them.
Needless to say, I adored Constans (gorgeous, competent, authoritative and yet so sweet underneath!) and finding out more about his backstory was highly gratifying. I loved how all the different threads from past and present eventually made one complete picture! But maybe, I could have done with a bigger helping of his feelings and reasons for falling for Isaac.
As for the main plot � you’d never have guessed, lol - there is a(nother) monster loose in Boston, spelling major danger to vampires. Tense action, brilliantly colourful descriptions of magic and gritty fights are at the heart of this well-crafted mystery!
I have no idea what SJ Himes has in store for the books after book 5 (which is Daniel’s book), but I would not mind returning to Isaac to see what happens past his first steps to be the person he wants to be.
Highly recommended.
October 14, 2019
Not my favourite book by this author. Whilst I loved Isaac and Constans's story, the slow first half of the book was so slow I lost interest and never really gained it back again.
November 8, 2019
2.8 stars!! I do love this author’s work and she can write one hell of an action story. Unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy his book as much as I thought I would.
My biggest complaint is how much this book relies on the character Angel, who was the lead of the 1st 3 books. At the beginning of this 1, the audience is asked to give Isaac a chance as the new main character. Which I was fine with, however, Angel is mentioned in every other paragraph. The plot line advances SOLEY because of Angel. The characters referenced him every chance they got. Angel’s feelings were almost entirely put at the forefront of the plot. Even Isaac spent COUNTLESS & COUNTLESS paragraphs monologuing about... ANGEL. I don’t think it would be an exaggeration to say that Isaac talked more about Angel than he did his alcoholism. Or his new boo. I don’t know how I’m supposed to give Isaac a chance if I never got to know him (and found myself constantly wishing I was “following� a better character *cough* Angel *cough*). Reading this book felt like if Kelly Rowland was putting out an album & said she no longer wanted to be in Beyoncé’s shadow... but then had Beyoncé sing every song on that album. I mean... should’ve just kept Angel as the lead.
Issac was bland to me. I didn’t get his motivations and didn’t feel chemistry between he and his love interest. It felt rushed and forced. I just don’t know what to think about Isaac tbh. After reading this book I feel like I’ve gotten to know Angel better though??
Positives about this book is that the world and magic are SO MUCH fun. Some of the scenes I got swept away in. And Eroch STOLE EVERY SINGLE scene he(she?) was in. The real mvp. That cute lil fucker.
Anyway, regardless of my complaints, this author is still a great writer and I’m looking forward to reading other books she puts out. Unfortunately, even though I do love this series, I think I’m done with Beacon Hills.
Xoxo gossip squirrel
My biggest complaint is how much this book relies on the character Angel, who was the lead of the 1st 3 books. At the beginning of this 1, the audience is asked to give Isaac a chance as the new main character. Which I was fine with, however, Angel is mentioned in every other paragraph. The plot line advances SOLEY because of Angel. The characters referenced him every chance they got. Angel’s feelings were almost entirely put at the forefront of the plot. Even Isaac spent COUNTLESS & COUNTLESS paragraphs monologuing about... ANGEL. I don’t think it would be an exaggeration to say that Isaac talked more about Angel than he did his alcoholism. Or his new boo. I don’t know how I’m supposed to give Isaac a chance if I never got to know him (and found myself constantly wishing I was “following� a better character *cough* Angel *cough*). Reading this book felt like if Kelly Rowland was putting out an album & said she no longer wanted to be in Beyoncé’s shadow... but then had Beyoncé sing every song on that album. I mean... should’ve just kept Angel as the lead.
Issac was bland to me. I didn’t get his motivations and didn’t feel chemistry between he and his love interest. It felt rushed and forced. I just don’t know what to think about Isaac tbh. After reading this book I feel like I’ve gotten to know Angel better though??
Positives about this book is that the world and magic are SO MUCH fun. Some of the scenes I got swept away in. And Eroch STOLE EVERY SINGLE scene he(she?) was in. The real mvp. That cute lil fucker.
Anyway, regardless of my complaints, this author is still a great writer and I’m looking forward to reading other books she puts out. Unfortunately, even though I do love this series, I think I’m done with Beacon Hills.
Xoxo gossip squirrel
August 25, 2024
2nd Re-read August 2024
___________
4.5 stars
___________
4.5 stars
July 20, 2020
I've been waiting since Book 2 for these two men to have their story and I am so glad I started the series when I did because the wait for this would've been torture!
I enjoyed this book and like the previous books in the series, it was chocked full of action , evil people being evil and lots of heart. i devoured it in one sitting.
While having lots of the same things that made the other books awesome, this book had quite a slow start and quite a few plot devices that were unaccounted for by the end. Also, though i knew the two men had a bond that had been developing for quite some time, the speed at which the "love" developed especially on Isaac's side was a bit abrupt for me.
It didn't take anything from my enjoyment of the story overall but looking at how it took Angel and Simeon 2 books to get to that stage, it shook me a bit.
All in all however, I was super excited Isaac found his man and Constantine also got someone who kept the loneliness at bay for him
Now, its time for me to hunker down and endure the long wait for Rory and Daniel's book! *wails*
I enjoyed this book and like the previous books in the series, it was chocked full of action , evil people being evil and lots of heart. i devoured it in one sitting.
While having lots of the same things that made the other books awesome, this book had quite a slow start and quite a few plot devices that were unaccounted for by the end. Also, though i knew the two men had a bond that had been developing for quite some time, the speed at which the "love" developed especially on Isaac's side was a bit abrupt for me.
It didn't take anything from my enjoyment of the story overall but looking at how it took Angel and Simeon 2 books to get to that stage, it shook me a bit.
All in all however, I was super excited Isaac found his man and Constantine also got someone who kept the loneliness at bay for him
Now, its time for me to hunker down and endure the long wait for Rory and Daniel's book! *wails*
October 10, 2019
Isaac's story was a bit different from his brother Angel. It clearly showed just how unlike the brothers were but how much they loved each other no matter what happened between them. This was a tough journey of recovery, healing and trying to find oneself. There was mystery, suspense and, of course, romance. I have been waiting to find out just who Constantine Batiste, Boston Vampire Master, was and wasn't disappointed.
First part of the book deals with many of Isaac's issues past and present. We see the clear distinction between him and Angel as well as Isaac's return to the road he should have been on. It's tough, slow and uncertain but Isaac is finally ready to be who he was meant to be. He just needs to figure out who. Constantine is a very interesting man. His story is long and fascinating. What I liked the most was juxtaposition of Constantine the Vampire Master and Constantine the man. While powerful and arctic cold he was also tender and loving. He was the support Isaac needed since everything went belly up without giving Isaac time to breathe and adjust. There were so many tender and passionate moments between two men as well as Isaac attempts to get his bearing with Constantine silently being there for him without judgement.
I loved the magic, the spells and the fact that everyone stood together to solve the puzzle. The pace of the story increased later on and I enjoyed Isaac's fierceness and Constantine's fighting skills. Overall, this was a story worth waiting for. Ms Himes wrote wonderful tale of blood, love and magic. I recommend it.
First part of the book deals with many of Isaac's issues past and present. We see the clear distinction between him and Angel as well as Isaac's return to the road he should have been on. It's tough, slow and uncertain but Isaac is finally ready to be who he was meant to be. He just needs to figure out who. Constantine is a very interesting man. His story is long and fascinating. What I liked the most was juxtaposition of Constantine the Vampire Master and Constantine the man. While powerful and arctic cold he was also tender and loving. He was the support Isaac needed since everything went belly up without giving Isaac time to breathe and adjust. There were so many tender and passionate moments between two men as well as Isaac attempts to get his bearing with Constantine silently being there for him without judgement.
I loved the magic, the spells and the fact that everyone stood together to solve the puzzle. The pace of the story increased later on and I enjoyed Isaac's fierceness and Constantine's fighting skills. Overall, this was a story worth waiting for. Ms Himes wrote wonderful tale of blood, love and magic. I recommend it.
February 6, 2020
I have been waiting for this story for years after being charmed by the possibility of these two since the second book. I loved the first half, but the second half I struggled with because I think it started feeling a bit forced and flimsy.
Overall it was hard to put down because I was a fan of the characters and world-building already, and I'm glad the author made the book longer than previous books, but sadly this is no longer my favorite m/m paranormal series. I have a lot of issues with the story unfortunately, and this review is ridiculously long due to that. I went different directions on how to rate it, but ultimately 3 seems good - I enjoyed the first half more than the second, and it's a loyalty to the characters and love of the series that may be making me a little more generous with the stars.
The main issue is Isaac. He was a favorite and I couldn't wait for his book, until I've read it. His addictions, his inner demons, his fascination with the master that he's avoiding, he had the potential to be an interesting and unique character. Instead I think the author was so worried that he would appear too much like his brother that she flattened and almost cartoonized him. If he reminds me of anyone, it would be an earlier Daniel who was too afraid to show any complexity of layers and was simplified.
The book mainly focuses on his aversion to alcohol after his treatment, and the author does add a unique twist to it. I think there was too much emphasis on his panic. An example is the overreaction when he's worried vampires won't like him (without any logical reason attached to that!) because Ellie says one simple thing in an otherwise calm conversation. Or almost having a full breakdown explaining he wants to have a part-time job when it's nothing to be nervous about at all and since he supposedly knows Constantine why freak out about? He spends most of the book crying or almost crying. Panic disorders can be serious things, although he didn't have them in previous books that we've seen -- but his emotions were way overdone even during happy moments and I had thought he would come across a bit more logical/intelligent with some of his reactions. I'm sympathetic and have had years of mental illness issues myself, don't get me wrong, but this was overplayed to the detriment of the writing and character.
A big let-down was the world-building/sorcerer continuation - we'd been told each sorcerer has their own powers and affinities. I was hoping he would finally bond with his magic in this book and couldn't wait to see the sorcerer he becomes - he does bond with his magic in one epic scene (very epic), but most of his sorcerer side is ignored to keep the story simpler.
I know he is not his brother or a fighter, and I wasn't expecting that -- but I still wanted to see him find creative uses with his powers.
Just some loose ideas that could have added a few interesting scenes to the story other than the romance part -- Perhaps a benefit to the vampires with sun-blocking shields with brief time in the sun in an emergency scene where he has to suddenly shield a fledging? A way to remove just the sun heat from a vampire's bad burns so that their natural healing can then take over would have been cool - a play with using his ability to sense and take out the heat like he did for Daniel's burns, but this time seeing a different type of heat that works with the effects of the sun? Just examples of just some of the things that could have been done where he's standing on his own two feet. It could have also tied in his benefit to the vampires and made him feel a bond and their connection more realistic than it ended up being without that rush.
On the plus side, there were a few cool shielding scenes at least to break up the romantic repetition. The apartment monster battle was intense.
As part of his character development, I was hoping he'd find a career and branch out, find some fulfillment in life. I was hoping he would find himself and a career he enjoys that fits previous versions of his character. He gets a part-time job, not a career, that comes out very left-field and I think was put in more to force a bond with vampires and add in more diversity mainly just for diversity's sake.
The scenes with Batiste are ridiculously hot earlier on, especially the roof and the room when curing the blood magic. I re-read both of those scenes entirely, and the first half of the story was the strongest other than flashbacks. The rest of the steamy scenes are sweet. I'm glad the author did a building up to all of this and not immediate. That always works best.
She played up Constantine's habit of watching people eat, which was fun and stayed from the moment with Angel in the first book, although it gets a bit overdone like she wasn't sure what else to do with the characters. They mainly sit together in the room eating, or Isaac sleeps or cries and gets held, but with the length of the story and the lack of some changes in scenery for the most part, there's only so much to fill it. Eating became part of that. The shower sounds incredible, at least.
Angel is here in all his brother's protective glory. I did feel a bit saddened, though. I think the author wanted to have this be Isaac's story so strongly that he becomes a bit too cut off from his brother. With Angel's books, he bonded to many and had interesting scenes with several people - here, Isaac bonds with Constantine and not many others other than a friendship scene or two with Daniel (where they strangely share the bathroom at the same time?).
He makes friends with some vampires which was fun, I dig Ellie quite a bit, but again it felt a little too rushed to feel fully natural. Isaac has more peace with his brother here, but the separation of all them hit me hard and the relationship felt too much like an afterthought and saying goodbye when it should not at all be a goodbye or even a lessening of his existing bonds with Angel.
The Mansion reunion should have been a big scene, and I had a feeling the author would go a certain way with the it, and it turned out I was right. My feelings on that are mixed, I wouldn't think a certain person would have been happy moving in there for several reasons, so again a bit unrealistic. (wanting to remain spoiler free here). It would have made sense to me to have Angel and Isaac have a brotherly conversation about this change with the mansion and add some realism/layers to their characters to where it didn't just come across left-field.
I'm glad the author took the time to make this one so long, I'm glad Isaac had at least one moment with his power, Eroch is fun and adorable as usual, there was proper romantic build-up before it feels cheesy, and the monster was inventively creepy. On the negative side, I've always been fascinated by Constantine and loved Isaac, but I think they lost a much of their complexity and potential in characterization with this book. His weaknesses seemed to be his main focus, while I was waiting to see a layered and interesting person emerge instead.
Also, his main grief issue was his horror at the massacre night and his involvement in it - it wasn't his fault but he blames himself, which is supposed to be the root of his issues. I figured he would open up to Constantine and tell him the dark secret, and perhaps with the vampire he could finally heal and be set free from his guilt. Or even in the therapy sessions with the doctor in the mood, he could make a breakthrough. Instead his focus on vomiting overtakes the actual reasons he turned to alcohol, everyone seems to know his secret without him having to tell them, and it's just not as big of an issue anymore. ??? If his point was healing, then you'd think he would need a big resolution on what was traumatizing him the most.
I know I'll re-read in the future, especially the first half. Maybe I'll not be bothered as much by some of the things I mentioned in the review in the future. I think the author took out the urban fantasy layers to make this a romance but went too far in that direction to where it became cheesy. I also think she was too worried about making Isaac different that he becomes paper-thin and duller. That bothers me a lot since I had such high hopes, but with the length of this review you can probably guess that!
At least we have Constantine not being weakened from my earlier thoughts of him, and he makes some good poetic lines I could listen to all day. The description of Isaac's smoky smell kept warming my heart. There was some humor that was downright cute, like the elevator with the vamps and the date.
October 15, 2019
Isaac is fresh out of his stay from Nevermore and trying to figure out who he is sober and how he fits into the world. While doing such a problem arises. There is a blood mage out in the City killing vampire fledglings and innocent people. The blood mage is also focused on Isaac, sending golem's to attack him. Isaac is just trying to keep his head straight but this new threat is doing a number on him. Luckily for him he has the Master of the City on his side, Constantine Batiste.
These two have an attraction that cannot be denied even if Issac's older brother, Angel, isn't a fan of the connection. While trying to find the blood mage they spend plenty of time together. Soon enough Constans becomes someone Isaac rely's on.
Constans, Issac and the crew work together to put an end to the terror caused by the blood mage.
Overall, this story was a bit of a let down. I love the first 3 books and expected this one to live up to their hype. Unfortunately, for me, it did not. I struggled with getting through it but I did love Isaac's relationship with Constans, even if it seemed fast. When you find your soulbound it happens right? lol. I am still looking forward to Rory and Daniel's story and keeping my fingers crossed it is a good one 🤞
These two have an attraction that cannot be denied even if Issac's older brother, Angel, isn't a fan of the connection. While trying to find the blood mage they spend plenty of time together. Soon enough Constans becomes someone Isaac rely's on.
Constans, Issac and the crew work together to put an end to the terror caused by the blood mage.
Overall, this story was a bit of a let down. I love the first 3 books and expected this one to live up to their hype. Unfortunately, for me, it did not. I struggled with getting through it but I did love Isaac's relationship with Constans, even if it seemed fast. When you find your soulbound it happens right? lol. I am still looking forward to Rory and Daniel's story and keeping my fingers crossed it is a good one 🤞
July 22, 2024
Great series!
Dual POV, uban fantasy, with terrific world building, some heat, not a lot of angst, some hurt/comfort, action, and a happy ending. I love the series and I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next.
Dual POV, uban fantasy, with terrific world building, some heat, not a lot of angst, some hurt/comfort, action, and a happy ending. I love the series and I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next.
October 11, 2019
4.5 stars!
I feel like I was waiting forever for this book, and I was so excited when I saw it came out and rushed to get it.
I've been wanting Isaac and Constantine's love story (and Daniel and Rory's, which is coming next woot woot!) since around the third book or so, maybe the second, and we finally got it :D
This is only a short while after the events of book 3 and 3.5, with Isaac just getting out of Nevermore. He not only has to deal with being sober and staying away from alcohol, but pretty soon after he's come home, a blood mage is starting to terrorize Beacon Hill and Isaac seems to be a little caught int he middle for reasons unknown.
With Isaac sober, and him wanting to either get out of the house or help Angel and be taught again with his magic to hone it once more, he and Constantine start to see each other more and more, and the connection cannot be denied.
We also get a little bit of Constantine's background with a few flashbacks, so we learn more about him. Before this book he's been pretty much an enigma, and from Angel's POV, he wasn't seen in a very flattering light most of the time.
But it's different for Isaac, who can't stay away from Constantine and doesn't want to. There is a hiccup with Angel when he first finds out, but we all knew it would happen. Angel is way overprotective of his little brother, and although it's understandable, he goes a little far when he finds out. But the brother's are able to make up.
I did give .5 off, but that's only because I wanted a little more in the sex scenes with Isaac and Constantine. They were good and enjoyable, but I felt they sometimes went by too fast, with not as much detail as there could have been. They have mindblowing sex, yes, but I just wanted more to show that. I don't know, the sex scenes just seemed to go by quick and that felt like hot and sexy and a little more like moving on to the next scene and I don't like that with sex scenes. Languish in the connection, the hotness and passion, a little more...
Overall this was so good though. I love these characters and this world and it's so fun to be immersed in it. And seeing Isaac from where he started in this series to now is awesome and amazing, and with Constantine by his side, it makes it all the better.
Two thumbs up from me, definitely recommend! Wouldn't mind a future book or short story with these two in the future. But next up, Daniel and Rory! Who are already so sweet together :D
I feel like I was waiting forever for this book, and I was so excited when I saw it came out and rushed to get it.
I've been wanting Isaac and Constantine's love story (and Daniel and Rory's, which is coming next woot woot!) since around the third book or so, maybe the second, and we finally got it :D
This is only a short while after the events of book 3 and 3.5, with Isaac just getting out of Nevermore. He not only has to deal with being sober and staying away from alcohol, but pretty soon after he's come home, a blood mage is starting to terrorize Beacon Hill and Isaac seems to be a little caught int he middle for reasons unknown.
With Isaac sober, and him wanting to either get out of the house or help Angel and be taught again with his magic to hone it once more, he and Constantine start to see each other more and more, and the connection cannot be denied.
We also get a little bit of Constantine's background with a few flashbacks, so we learn more about him. Before this book he's been pretty much an enigma, and from Angel's POV, he wasn't seen in a very flattering light most of the time.
But it's different for Isaac, who can't stay away from Constantine and doesn't want to. There is a hiccup with Angel when he first finds out, but we all knew it would happen. Angel is way overprotective of his little brother, and although it's understandable, he goes a little far when he finds out. But the brother's are able to make up.
I did give .5 off, but that's only because I wanted a little more in the sex scenes with Isaac and Constantine. They were good and enjoyable, but I felt they sometimes went by too fast, with not as much detail as there could have been. They have mindblowing sex, yes, but I just wanted more to show that. I don't know, the sex scenes just seemed to go by quick and that felt like hot and sexy and a little more like moving on to the next scene and I don't like that with sex scenes. Languish in the connection, the hotness and passion, a little more...
Overall this was so good though. I love these characters and this world and it's so fun to be immersed in it. And seeing Isaac from where he started in this series to now is awesome and amazing, and with Constantine by his side, it makes it all the better.
Two thumbs up from me, definitely recommend! Wouldn't mind a future book or short story with these two in the future. But next up, Daniel and Rory! Who are already so sweet together :D
January 29, 2022
Isaac por fin esta sobrio despues de casi 6 años, pero el mes que paso dentro de Nevermore fue mucho mas dificil de lo que penso al principio, y no sabe que quiere hacer con su vida ahora, y estando sobrio se tiene que enfrentar a sus sentimientos, pero con la ayuda de su psiquiatra, su familia y mas importante aun Constantine (el Lider Vampiro de la Ciudad), intenta aceptar su problema, y encontrar un nuevo proposito en su vida.
Sin embargo, un nuevo mal lo persigue y al parecer quiere "robar" su poder y atacar a Constantine. Este nuevo brujo tiene poderes que no se han visto en miles de años y que solo una persona tan vieja como Constantine o Remy, pueden combatir y/o detener. Pero solo los Salvatore no se rinden ante nada para defender a su ciudad de este nuevo mal, y ambos hermanos se juntaran para descubrir, encontrar y destruir a este brujo.
Por supuesto, no se parece en casi nada a los libros anteriores, los roces de hilaridad que representan Eroth o el sarcasmo de Angel no se ven en casi ninguna parte en este libro. Lo que si vemos mucho es la lucha interna de un joven alcoholico en recuperacion y lo dificil que le resulta a el y a su familia volver a conocerse. Al prinicipio la trama es bastante basada en la vida y sentimientos de un alcoholico, y como los sentimientos de culpabilidad son quizas, lo mas dificil de superar sin recurrir a viejos habitos, pero la lucha del personaje es interna y eso solo se ve reflejado en los primeros capitulos del libro.
Despues vemos un romance, que en mi opinion, fue mucho mejor manejado que el de protas de la serie (Angel y Simeon), se siente mucha mas quimica entre esta pareja, y sobre todo, conocemos muchisimo mas de la vida de Constantine y sus razones, sentimientos y personalidad, de lo que sabemos de Simeon despues de 3 libros.
Asi que si, es quizas el libro mas "maduro" de la serie hasta ahora, y voy a seguir leyendola.
Sin embargo, un nuevo mal lo persigue y al parecer quiere "robar" su poder y atacar a Constantine. Este nuevo brujo tiene poderes que no se han visto en miles de años y que solo una persona tan vieja como Constantine o Remy, pueden combatir y/o detener. Pero solo los Salvatore no se rinden ante nada para defender a su ciudad de este nuevo mal, y ambos hermanos se juntaran para descubrir, encontrar y destruir a este brujo.
Por supuesto, no se parece en casi nada a los libros anteriores, los roces de hilaridad que representan Eroth o el sarcasmo de Angel no se ven en casi ninguna parte en este libro. Lo que si vemos mucho es la lucha interna de un joven alcoholico en recuperacion y lo dificil que le resulta a el y a su familia volver a conocerse. Al prinicipio la trama es bastante basada en la vida y sentimientos de un alcoholico, y como los sentimientos de culpabilidad son quizas, lo mas dificil de superar sin recurrir a viejos habitos, pero la lucha del personaje es interna y eso solo se ve reflejado en los primeros capitulos del libro.
Despues vemos un romance, que en mi opinion, fue mucho mejor manejado que el de protas de la serie (Angel y Simeon), se siente mucha mas quimica entre esta pareja, y sobre todo, conocemos muchisimo mas de la vida de Constantine y sus razones, sentimientos y personalidad, de lo que sabemos de Simeon despues de 3 libros.
Asi que si, es quizas el libro mas "maduro" de la serie hasta ahora, y voy a seguir leyendola.
December 17, 2019
This series is just pure perfection when it comes to mm urban fantasy romance. Seriously. I love every little thing about this - all the characters, the storytelling, the history and world building, just everything.
ALL the stars to Sheena to creating this world with these characters I love so much, and want to read about forever.
CANNOT wait to get Daniel and Rory's story in 2020!!!
ALL the stars to Sheena to creating this world with these characters I love so much, and want to read about forever.
CANNOT wait to get Daniel and Rory's story in 2020!!!
February 11, 2022
The book almost lived up to the (admittedly high) expectations I've had after devouring the first three.
Isaacs, Angel's brother, finally admitted to himself that he has a problem - he's an alcoholic. And in the previous book, we've seen him go to rehab, and had our first real scene with him and Constantine Batiste, the enigmatic and powerful vampire Master of Boston.
This book picks up right where the other one left us - Isaac is allowed to go home, and struggles a bit to find his vocation and his powers, when he's attacked out of the blue by an ancient evil.
That's where Constantine comes in, because the same evil seems to target vampires too.
The first 30% of the book I struggled with a bit, because we had several time jumps between present day and the past, 2000 years ago, back then when Constantine was still human. Apart from the fact that I'm never overly fond of flashbacks, I REALLY don't like it when Joel Leslie (aka the narrator) attempts to mimic a French ish accent. Apart from the fact that it wouldn't have been necessary for the story - if we're really pedantic about it, 2000 years ago French wasn't yet invented. So yes, I think without that particular quirk of his in overdoing French accents, I'd probably wouldn't have minded those annoying (but in hindsight necessary) flashbacks.
The rest of the book went down smoothly - Isaac finding a way to deal with his addiction, the relationship between him and Constantine developing beautifully, Angel being the overprotective older brother who learns to let go, and ofc, dealing with the evil that keeps threatening them all.
We get a bit of Rory and Daniel (whom the next book will be about), Eroch the cute dragon, and Cian - Rory's twin who's in jail - has a short, but very interesting scene.
The world gets more complex with every book, the new bits and pieces integrating seamlessly with what we already know.
All in all the book was slightly longer and slower paced than the ones before, but still a very good addition to the series, even though it had moments where I would have started skimming if I'd not listened to the audiobook.
Isaacs, Angel's brother, finally admitted to himself that he has a problem - he's an alcoholic. And in the previous book, we've seen him go to rehab, and had our first real scene with him and Constantine Batiste, the enigmatic and powerful vampire Master of Boston.
This book picks up right where the other one left us - Isaac is allowed to go home, and struggles a bit to find his vocation and his powers, when he's attacked out of the blue by an ancient evil.
That's where Constantine comes in, because the same evil seems to target vampires too.
The first 30% of the book I struggled with a bit, because we had several time jumps between present day and the past, 2000 years ago, back then when Constantine was still human. Apart from the fact that I'm never overly fond of flashbacks, I REALLY don't like it when Joel Leslie (aka the narrator) attempts to mimic a French ish accent. Apart from the fact that it wouldn't have been necessary for the story - if we're really pedantic about it, 2000 years ago French wasn't yet invented. So yes, I think without that particular quirk of his in overdoing French accents, I'd probably wouldn't have minded those annoying (but in hindsight necessary) flashbacks.
The rest of the book went down smoothly - Isaac finding a way to deal with his addiction, the relationship between him and Constantine developing beautifully, Angel being the overprotective older brother who learns to let go, and ofc, dealing with the evil that keeps threatening them all.
We get a bit of Rory and Daniel (whom the next book will be about), Eroch the cute dragon, and Cian - Rory's twin who's in jail - has a short, but very interesting scene.
The world gets more complex with every book, the new bits and pieces integrating seamlessly with what we already know.
All in all the book was slightly longer and slower paced than the ones before, but still a very good addition to the series, even though it had moments where I would have started skimming if I'd not listened to the audiobook.
June 10, 2024
“Honesty was all he had�.
Creo que ha sido el mejor libro que he leído de la saga por el momento. Eso sí la portada la odio. Me ha gustado mucho, aunque haya sido la mayor parte de las cosas predecibles, la química y el drama entre los protagonistas me ha podido.
Creo que ha sido el mejor libro que he leído de la saga por el momento. Eso sí la portada la odio. Me ha gustado mucho, aunque haya sido la mayor parte de las cosas predecibles, la química y el drama entre los protagonistas me ha podido.
October 6, 2019
�4.5 Stars�
💗
I can't wait for the next book!
I can't wait for the next book!
August 8, 2021
It gets better!
Wow! This series just gets better and better! I really am glad I came back to this series. And now I can’t wait! That little nugget at the end in the epilogue...I sorta suspected it! And now we’ll hopefully find out what happened!
This was a good instalment. It’s focused on Isaac and Constantine Batiste, the city master of vampires. I’m happy that we’ve shifted the focus off from Simeon and Angel, not that they’re no longer in the story, it’s just shifted over. I think the plot line for this instalment was tighter than the previous books and I’m truly very happy and impressed by it.
I want to gush about this book but I can’t stop thinking about the epilogue! I mean, I’m just so excited as to how it’s going to play out and I feel like it’s a little unfair of me to ignore the 30 chapters that was this book. Oops...
But truly, the five stars isn’t for the epilogue okay. It’s really for the 30 chapters that was the meat of this book 😅 I can’t wait for the next book tho! 😲
Wow! This series just gets better and better! I really am glad I came back to this series. And now I can’t wait! That little nugget at the end in the epilogue...I sorta suspected it! And now we’ll hopefully find out what happened!
This was a good instalment. It’s focused on Isaac and Constantine Batiste, the city master of vampires. I’m happy that we’ve shifted the focus off from Simeon and Angel, not that they’re no longer in the story, it’s just shifted over. I think the plot line for this instalment was tighter than the previous books and I’m truly very happy and impressed by it.
I want to gush about this book but I can’t stop thinking about the epilogue! I mean, I’m just so excited as to how it’s going to play out and I feel like it’s a little unfair of me to ignore the 30 chapters that was this book. Oops...
But truly, the five stars isn’t for the epilogue okay. It’s really for the 30 chapters that was the meat of this book 😅 I can’t wait for the next book tho! 😲
November 25, 2020
Reread review- 4.6 stars? Enjoyed it more this time around. 🤗
Original review- 4 stars. Good and enjoyable, although, the flashbacks or parts of chapters that were from Constantine’s past kind of bored me (except for 1). Also, I do wish there had been more angst. 😕
Otherwise, I think I do like Constance and Isaac together.
Original review- 4 stars. Good and enjoyable, although, the flashbacks or parts of chapters that were from Constantine’s past kind of bored me (except for 1). Also, I do wish there had been more angst. 😕
Otherwise, I think I do like Constance and Isaac together.
October 22, 2019
Background flashbacks for Constans felt draggy. They also felt out of place in the series since background was never presented for Simeon. Angel still monopolized the plot.
July 4, 2020
I would give this book a 3.5 stars, I rounded up because I still really enjoy the author's writing.
This particular book wasn't bad just not as good as the others. IMO, it felt as if it were 80% of Isaac's internal struggle and monologue and the rest was about Constantine, Angel and the mystery.
While I have a great deal of sympathy for Isaac's struggles with addiction and trauma, I also would have liked a better balance in the book of Constantine's story and more of the mystery. With Angel's story it took three books to deal with much of what was going on with his relationship with Simeon and all the other things he had to deal with. I think this book was crammed with things that should have taken more time especially but, not including, his relationship with Constantine.
There were some minor unresolved issues that niggled at me like what Dr. M's involvement with what happened at Nevermore was and would Isaac ever feel safe going back there if necessary. Like I said, nothing important.
I can't wait for Daniel and Rory's story. I can't imagine what it would be like to be an immortal in love with a mortal because of the difference in concepts of time and the world in general and I wonder how many other great loves might Rory have had.
Lastly, I want to address that I listened to this as an audiobook and like I said in my update Joel Leslie is hit or miss with me. Sometimes, I think the book fits his style perfectly and sometimes, it's just not right. I enjoy his accents whether they be anywhere near authentic or not isn't so much of an issue with me since I don't often come across many, but the warble in his voice does annoy me a great deal and can take some of the enjoyment out of the story. This book was in the middle for me overall. He made Isaac sound like he was ALWAYS on the verge of a breakdown (although that was not far off) and the warble was very pronounced with this character. I appreciate his unique talent especially since it's not something I can do but that's just my opinion.
This particular book wasn't bad just not as good as the others. IMO, it felt as if it were 80% of Isaac's internal struggle and monologue and the rest was about Constantine, Angel and the mystery.
While I have a great deal of sympathy for Isaac's struggles with addiction and trauma, I also would have liked a better balance in the book of Constantine's story and more of the mystery. With Angel's story it took three books to deal with much of what was going on with his relationship with Simeon and all the other things he had to deal with. I think this book was crammed with things that should have taken more time especially but, not including, his relationship with Constantine.
There were some minor unresolved issues that niggled at me like what Dr. M's involvement with what happened at Nevermore was and would Isaac ever feel safe going back there if necessary. Like I said, nothing important.
I can't wait for Daniel and Rory's story. I can't imagine what it would be like to be an immortal in love with a mortal because of the difference in concepts of time and the world in general and I wonder how many other great loves might Rory have had.
Lastly, I want to address that I listened to this as an audiobook and like I said in my update Joel Leslie is hit or miss with me. Sometimes, I think the book fits his style perfectly and sometimes, it's just not right. I enjoy his accents whether they be anywhere near authentic or not isn't so much of an issue with me since I don't often come across many, but the warble in his voice does annoy me a great deal and can take some of the enjoyment out of the story. This book was in the middle for me overall. He made Isaac sound like he was ALWAYS on the verge of a breakdown (although that was not far off) and the warble was very pronounced with this character. I appreciate his unique talent especially since it's not something I can do but that's just my opinion.
July 5, 2020
I have been waiting for this book forever. I so wanted to see Isaac separate from Angel and this did not disappoint. I loved getting the look into Constans life and what happened and the plot kept me running along on my long run very happily and cleaning my house too!
October 11, 2019
4.5*
That was amazing and I couldn’t put it down! It was all I wanted for Isaac and my thirst to know more about Constantine was quenched (for now!) I can’t wait for Daniel’s book and to see the whole gang again.
As the author said at the beginning, this is Isaac’s story and he’s very, very different from Angel. We see his journey and the glorious beginning of his happy ending.-
That was amazing and I couldn’t put it down! It was all I wanted for Isaac and my thirst to know more about Constantine was quenched (for now!) I can’t wait for Daniel’s book and to see the whole gang again.
As the author said at the beginning, this is Isaac’s story and he’s very, very different from Angel. We see his journey and the glorious beginning of his happy ending.-
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