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Madison Avery #2
Early to Death, Early to Rise
Seventeen, dead, and in charge of heaven's dark angels—all itching to kill someone.
Madison Avery's dreams of ever fitting in at her new school died when she did. Especially since she was able to maintain the illusion of a body, deal with a pesky guardian angel, and oh yeah, bring the reaper who killed her to his untimely end. Not exactly in-crowd material. It's amazing that her crush, Josh, doesn't think she's totally nuts.
Madison Avery's dreams of ever fitting in at her new school died when she did. Especially since she was able to maintain the illusion of a body, deal with a pesky guardian angel, and oh yeah, bring the reaper who killed her to his untimely end. Not exactly in-crowd material. It's amazing that her crush, Josh, doesn't think she's totally nuts.
Now Madison has learned that she's the dark timekeeper, in charge of angels who follow the murky guidelines of fate. Never one to abide by the rules, she decides it's time for a major change to the system. With the help of some unlikely allies, Madison forms a rogue group of reapers who definitely don't adhere to the rules of the heavens.
But as she grapples with the terrifying new skills that come with being a timekeeper, Madison realizes she may not be prepared for what lies ahead—unless she gets some seriously divine intervention.
228 pages, Hardcover
First published September 3, 2009
153 people are currently reading
4784 people want to read
About the author
Kim Harrison
87Ìýbooks18.6kÌýfollowersKim Harrison is best known as the author of the New York Times #1 best selling Hollows series, but she has written more than urban fantasy and has published over two-dozen books spanning the gamut from young adult, thriller, several anthologies, and has scripted two original graphic novels. She has also published traditional fantasy under the name Dawn Cook. Kim is currently working on a new Hollows book between other, non related, urban fantasy projects.
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other pseudonyms:
Kim reaches out to her audience at Facebook
and her blog
other pseudonyms:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 324 reviews
April 13, 2018
Ciężko mi powiedzieć czy druga część jest lepsza od poprzedniej, czy nie. W sumie nie czuję szczególnej różnicy. Błędy właściwie te same: dość płytkie relacje między bohaterami, a dodatkowo dochodzą ciągłe nawiązania do pierwszej części (jakby autorka pisała ,,Strażniczkę...'' pod kątem osób, które nie czytały ,,Umarłych...''), co naprawdę chwilami irytuje. I ZNOWU ciągłe powtarzanie Madison, że ona nie musi jeść ani pić. W-I-E-M-Y.
Zmieniło mi się za to postrzeganie niektórych postaci:
Nakita - otrzymuje ode mnie tytuł najbardziej irytującej bohaterki tej części. Myślałam, że jest rozsądniejsza, ale okazała się bardziej lekkomyślna niż Madison o jakimś dziwnym rozchwianiu emocjonalnym. Nope nope.
Josh - był, bo był.
Paul - niby zastępca Rona, a zachowuje się jak buntujący nastolatek. Już pod koniec trochę mądrzeje, ale i tak...
Grace i Barnaba - nadal ich lubię jak wcześniej. A Barnaby nawet mi trochę szkoda.
Ron - a jego, o dziwo, właśnie polubiłam. Wykazał chyba najwięcej charakteru spośród wszystkich i to on najbardziej zapadł mi w pamięć.
Zalety? Jeszcze krótsza i czyta się ją tak samo szybko jak poprzedniczkę.
Zmieniło mi się za to postrzeganie niektórych postaci:
Nakita - otrzymuje ode mnie tytuł najbardziej irytującej bohaterki tej części. Myślałam, że jest rozsądniejsza, ale okazała się bardziej lekkomyślna niż Madison o jakimś dziwnym rozchwianiu emocjonalnym. Nope nope.
Josh - był, bo był.
Paul - niby zastępca Rona, a zachowuje się jak buntujący nastolatek. Już pod koniec trochę mądrzeje, ale i tak...
Grace i Barnaba - nadal ich lubię jak wcześniej. A Barnaby nawet mi trochę szkoda.
Ron - a jego, o dziwo, właśnie polubiłam. Wykazał chyba najwięcej charakteru spośród wszystkich i to on najbardziej zapadł mi w pamięć.
Zalety? Jeszcze krótsza i czyta się ją tak samo szybko jak poprzedniczkę.
August 4, 2010
Sadly, this is the only Kim Harrison series I have read, so I have nothing to compare it to, but Harrison is spot on with the Madison Avery books. I love the concept behind these books - the argument between which is right choice or fate? The characters are also fabulous and entirely unforgettable. Madison - the protagonist is the Dark Time Keeper, who just happens to be dead. She is in control of the dark reapers and Barnabas, who has gone rouge. Her entourage is simply hilarious, I love when Nakita and Barnabas banter, the two of them supply plenty of comic relief.
Speaking of comic relief, Madison is a complete and utter hoot. She is desperately trying change heavens rules while trying to fit in as a normal teenager. She makes so many mistakes, which makes her charming. I have always had a thing for unlikely heroes/heroines, and Madison is a far cry from what you expect a heroine to be.
Honestly, I don't think there is a character in this book that I don't like - expect people like Ron, who I am suppose to despise. All of my favorites from the first book are back; Madison, Barnabas, Nakita, Josh and even Grace.
There are also some new introductions through in this book, some characters who I think we will be seeing again and some we won't. Paul, the rising light keeper makes quite a splash in this book and in Madison's life. I don't want to give too much away, but I will say that I have taken quite a fancy to him. He is no Barnabas, who is simply my favorite, but I still like him.
The plot was a lot smoother than in Once Dead, Twice Shy, which was nice. It was a short book and the plot grips you early on and doesn't let up until the last page. I appreciated that, like the first book, it did not end in a cliffhanger. There are plenty of places for the story to continue, but this book closed all of the craziness that it opened within its plot.
Although I loved this book, I do have one gripe. Why isn't Josh in more of it? He is Madison's main love interest and he is only in the first chapter or so. I was so excited at the end of Once Dead, Twice Shy when the four of them were presented as sort of a package of rebel superheroes, and then he is basically missing from this book. I am now more confused then ever about which guy I am leaning towards for Madison. At the beginning, I was slightly pro-Josh, but then he was MIA and now I am leaning towards Barnabas. Is that even possible? A Dark Time Keeper and a rouge fallen angel? Why not, I say. They had some great scenes in this book and I love when he flies her around. However, I could also go with Paul, the rising Light Time Keeper. Wouldn't that be something? The Dark Time Keeper and the Light Time Keeper? I guess we will just have to wait and see where Harrison takes it.
I am eagerly and rather impatiently, anticipating the next book. I cannot wait to see what happens with Madison and everyone next. I enjoyed this book immensely; it was an exciting quick read with plenty screen time for my favorites, Nakita and Barnabas.
Speaking of comic relief, Madison is a complete and utter hoot. She is desperately trying change heavens rules while trying to fit in as a normal teenager. She makes so many mistakes, which makes her charming. I have always had a thing for unlikely heroes/heroines, and Madison is a far cry from what you expect a heroine to be.
Honestly, I don't think there is a character in this book that I don't like - expect people like Ron, who I am suppose to despise. All of my favorites from the first book are back; Madison, Barnabas, Nakita, Josh and even Grace.
There are also some new introductions through in this book, some characters who I think we will be seeing again and some we won't. Paul, the rising light keeper makes quite a splash in this book and in Madison's life. I don't want to give too much away, but I will say that I have taken quite a fancy to him. He is no Barnabas, who is simply my favorite, but I still like him.
The plot was a lot smoother than in Once Dead, Twice Shy, which was nice. It was a short book and the plot grips you early on and doesn't let up until the last page. I appreciated that, like the first book, it did not end in a cliffhanger. There are plenty of places for the story to continue, but this book closed all of the craziness that it opened within its plot.
Although I loved this book, I do have one gripe. Why isn't Josh in more of it? He is Madison's main love interest and he is only in the first chapter or so. I was so excited at the end of Once Dead, Twice Shy when the four of them were presented as sort of a package of rebel superheroes, and then he is basically missing from this book. I am now more confused then ever about which guy I am leaning towards for Madison. At the beginning, I was slightly pro-Josh, but then he was MIA and now I am leaning towards Barnabas. Is that even possible? A Dark Time Keeper and a rouge fallen angel? Why not, I say. They had some great scenes in this book and I love when he flies her around. However, I could also go with Paul, the rising Light Time Keeper. Wouldn't that be something? The Dark Time Keeper and the Light Time Keeper? I guess we will just have to wait and see where Harrison takes it.
I am eagerly and rather impatiently, anticipating the next book. I cannot wait to see what happens with Madison and everyone next. I enjoyed this book immensely; it was an exciting quick read with plenty screen time for my favorites, Nakita and Barnabas.
November 20, 2017
This book doesn't even rate one star. It was bad.
I don't know what it is about Harrison, but she just cannot write female leads to save her own damn soul. Madison is literally a 17 year old version of Rachel.
Just as obnoxious.
Just as stupid.
Just as naive.
This book started out as a really dumb, quick, beach read. You know, those books that you don't give a second thought to after you finish reading them because they do nothing for you but kill a few hours. After the third chapter, this turned into one of those books you use for kindling to start the bon fire on said beach.
I haven't decided if I'm going to finish the trilogy off or just leave it. I like seeing my list get colored in, but I am in no rush to finish it. Not when there are much better books out there to read that don't revolve around teenagers who can barely walk straight, much less make decisions about people's souls.
I don't know what it is about Harrison, but she just cannot write female leads to save her own damn soul. Madison is literally a 17 year old version of Rachel.
Just as obnoxious.
Just as stupid.
Just as naive.
This book started out as a really dumb, quick, beach read. You know, those books that you don't give a second thought to after you finish reading them because they do nothing for you but kill a few hours. After the third chapter, this turned into one of those books you use for kindling to start the bon fire on said beach.
I haven't decided if I'm going to finish the trilogy off or just leave it. I like seeing my list get colored in, but I am in no rush to finish it. Not when there are much better books out there to read that don't revolve around teenagers who can barely walk straight, much less make decisions about people's souls.
June 23, 2012
Good sequel!
Enjoyed it as much as the first.
Not much to say since it just continued from where the last one left off.
It was obvious that Madisons and Josh's relationship was going to develop! And I've grown to love Nikita she would be an awesome and very loyal trustworthy friend and I found myself sympathising for her more and more as I grew to know her better.
This series is fresh and has some kick ass twists!
Enjoyed it as much as the first.
Not much to say since it just continued from where the last one left off.
It was obvious that Madisons and Josh's relationship was going to develop! And I've grown to love Nikita she would be an awesome and very loyal trustworthy friend and I found myself sympathising for her more and more as I grew to know her better.
This series is fresh and has some kick ass twists!
June 11, 2010
I really like the concept and the story but for some reason with these books I am having a hard time connecting with the characters. Unusual for me for a Kim Harrison book because the Rachel Morgan books are some of my all time favorites...
But... still really enjoyed it! Would probably give 3.5
But... still really enjoyed it! Would probably give 3.5
November 5, 2013
This is completely off the radar for most people, and I think that is just plain wrong.
So I'm here to tell you! yes you, reading this, that you must give this series a shot!
It really surprised me how much I really got into this and entertained by it.
It's such a simple plot really, and I mean that actually because I swear these books only take place around one event, and then despite this, the characters, the rhythm, the creativity, just everything fit so nicely and made it come together so well!
I really encourage you to pick up the first book, it's super thin and you'll fly through it like I did!
So those of you who have no idea what this is about, come children, sit and listen whilst I tell you the story - spoilers are hidden!
Right. So. You got this ultra gothy chick, named Madison and with her quirky hairstyle and fashion sense, you know things are going down and uphill in her life. Mainly downhill since she's, well, dead. But not a ghost-y way, more of a corporeal body but it's not actually alive - which sucks dog poop since Madison can't eat food without tasting it, can't sleep, can't feel her pulse etc etc...you know the obvious..I mean if your body was dead...what couldn't you do?
So the reason she's dead but not actually dead, is the amulet she wears which keeps her alive..for the most part and keeps her safe from black wings -things that like to eat souls (think of them as evil, creepy and hateful crows...not to hard to imagine, since crows are the freaking birds from hell...)- So all in all the amulet is very precious, very powerful and very important. It symbolises her Madison shakes up the normal rules, and decides to things her own way, on her own terms.
So with the help of Nakita - a dark reaper turned emotionally aware and Barnabas whose twice fallen, they help, guide and offer company of the entertaining variety! I absolutely love the dynamics between Nakita and Barnabas - the obvious dark against light yet it is so much more complex than that the petty arguments and snide remarks are just the highlight to their relationship, which is then given something softer in the moments of kindness, empathy and understanding. Nakita is the madwoman with a sharp sword who is trying to come to terms with human perspective and the concept of ask questions first and then shoot. But besides this, her character is utterly amazing, I love her so much, you really feel and connect with her. Plus some times - most often - she is downright hilarious. Barnabas on the other hand - not a funny bunny. He is very stoic and serious and basically he has a paranoid thing going on. But I love him anyway, I can just see the potential love interest with Nakita - I ship them so hard.
Then enter Josh the love interest for Madison - didnt see much or really any of him in this book save for the very start, a dinner and then a run at the end. But from the looks of things, I reckon he could be having some major competition. And no I am not talking about the running competition he faces. His competition comes in the form of one work.
Paul.
A new introduced character and one I'm completely fascinated over, I absolutely love and adore him. At the start I just knew there is no way he could be evil - he is to too pure - or something along those lines for that! Loved him, love the stuff he overcomes and comes to terms with. Can't wait to see more of him!
Overlap this book really earns a solid five stars, it was a quick speedy read, an enjoyable one too! I love this series!
So I'm here to tell you! yes you, reading this, that you must give this series a shot!
It really surprised me how much I really got into this and entertained by it.
It's such a simple plot really, and I mean that actually because I swear these books only take place around one event, and then despite this, the characters, the rhythm, the creativity, just everything fit so nicely and made it come together so well!
I really encourage you to pick up the first book, it's super thin and you'll fly through it like I did!
So those of you who have no idea what this is about, come children, sit and listen whilst I tell you the story - spoilers are hidden!
Right. So. You got this ultra gothy chick, named Madison and with her quirky hairstyle and fashion sense, you know things are going down and uphill in her life. Mainly downhill since she's, well, dead. But not a ghost-y way, more of a corporeal body but it's not actually alive - which sucks dog poop since Madison can't eat food without tasting it, can't sleep, can't feel her pulse etc etc...you know the obvious..I mean if your body was dead...what couldn't you do?
So the reason she's dead but not actually dead, is the amulet she wears which keeps her alive..for the most part and keeps her safe from black wings -things that like to eat souls (think of them as evil, creepy and hateful crows...not to hard to imagine, since crows are the freaking birds from hell...)- So all in all the amulet is very precious, very powerful and very important. It symbolises her Madison shakes up the normal rules, and decides to things her own way, on her own terms.
So with the help of Nakita - a dark reaper turned emotionally aware and Barnabas whose twice fallen, they help, guide and offer company of the entertaining variety! I absolutely love the dynamics between Nakita and Barnabas - the obvious dark against light yet it is so much more complex than that the petty arguments and snide remarks are just the highlight to their relationship, which is then given something softer in the moments of kindness, empathy and understanding. Nakita is the madwoman with a sharp sword who is trying to come to terms with human perspective and the concept of ask questions first and then shoot. But besides this, her character is utterly amazing, I love her so much, you really feel and connect with her. Plus some times - most often - she is downright hilarious. Barnabas on the other hand - not a funny bunny. He is very stoic and serious and basically he has a paranoid thing going on. But I love him anyway, I can just see the potential love interest with Nakita - I ship them so hard.
Then enter Josh the love interest for Madison - didnt see much or really any of him in this book save for the very start, a dinner and then a run at the end. But from the looks of things, I reckon he could be having some major competition. And no I am not talking about the running competition he faces. His competition comes in the form of one work.
Paul.
A new introduced character and one I'm completely fascinated over, I absolutely love and adore him. At the start I just knew there is no way he could be evil - he is to too pure - or something along those lines for that! Loved him, love the stuff he overcomes and comes to terms with. Can't wait to see more of him!
Overlap this book really earns a solid five stars, it was a quick speedy read, an enjoyable one too! I love this series!
October 5, 2011
Review also found here:
Madison just learned that she is the dark timekeeper and that she is in charge of all the dark reapers who all follow the guidelines of fate. But Madison doesn't believe in fate; she believes in choice and she think that its time for a major change. You see, the dark reapers reap the souls of those who will do very bad things in the future. But Madison thinks that if she can convince them to make the right choice, they could save the person's soul. If she could only convince the Seraphs of this...
With the help of Nakita and Barnabas (and almost Josh, but he got stuck in school lol) They set out to save a boy's soul who will use a computer virus to kill many people. The virus was only meant as a joke. Ace and Shoe were going to insert the virus into the computer system of their school so the system would shut down and they would have a free day on the 1st day of school. But things will go bad from there. One of the two boys will insert that same virus into the computer system of the hospital and many people will die because of it.
Its up to Madison to stop the right boy from doing this and save his soul as well as many innocent people. But first, Madison needs to figure out which boy is the one that will cause the destruction. And while all this is going on, she has to deal with the overwhelming powers that come along with being a timekeeper.
I absolutely loved this book! I loved all the twists at the end and I really liked all the characters, except for maybe Ace who got on my nerves sometimes, lol. I enjoyed watching Madison learn to get a hold of her powers. I kinda wished Josh was a little more involved, but since the book took place within a 24 hour span, and Josh was at school most of the time, I can understand.
Hopefully he will be in the next book a lot more. Talking about the next book, i cant wait to start it!! :D
Madison just learned that she is the dark timekeeper and that she is in charge of all the dark reapers who all follow the guidelines of fate. But Madison doesn't believe in fate; she believes in choice and she think that its time for a major change. You see, the dark reapers reap the souls of those who will do very bad things in the future. But Madison thinks that if she can convince them to make the right choice, they could save the person's soul. If she could only convince the Seraphs of this...
With the help of Nakita and Barnabas (and almost Josh, but he got stuck in school lol) They set out to save a boy's soul who will use a computer virus to kill many people. The virus was only meant as a joke. Ace and Shoe were going to insert the virus into the computer system of their school so the system would shut down and they would have a free day on the 1st day of school. But things will go bad from there. One of the two boys will insert that same virus into the computer system of the hospital and many people will die because of it.
Its up to Madison to stop the right boy from doing this and save his soul as well as many innocent people. But first, Madison needs to figure out which boy is the one that will cause the destruction. And while all this is going on, she has to deal with the overwhelming powers that come along with being a timekeeper.
I absolutely loved this book! I loved all the twists at the end and I really liked all the characters, except for maybe Ace who got on my nerves sometimes, lol. I enjoyed watching Madison learn to get a hold of her powers. I kinda wished Josh was a little more involved, but since the book took place within a 24 hour span, and Josh was at school most of the time, I can understand.
Hopefully he will be in the next book a lot more. Talking about the next book, i cant wait to start it!! :D
February 1, 2010
When we last left our heroine, Madison Avery had just discovered that she is the new dark timekeeper in charge of an army of Seraphim, angels of death charged to reap souls before they can sin enough to be sent to hell. Madison is convinced that she can intervene before the fateful moment, saving lives and giving people a choice to change for the better. Together with a dark reaper, a grim reaper, and her own messenger cherub, Madison fights to prove herself as the new dark timekeeper, all while trying to hide the fact that she is dead from her father until she can find her body and go back to normal.
Early to Death, Early to Rise is a strong sequel to Once Dead, Twice Shy. It is light enough to stay fun, but does tackle the idea of fate versus free-will. I really enjoyed watching Madison develop her relationships with Barnabas, Nakita, and Grace, and I appreciated that the entire story did not revolve around a romance. Rather, it shows Madison exploring and growing into her new role while trying to save souls. I do think that new readers should read the first book before taking on this one, as the situation could be confusing without that additional background. Early to Death, Early to Rise was a lot of fun, and I recommend it to those who want a funny, fast-paced supernatural teen read.
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book from HarperCollins Publishers at the ALA Midwinter Conference.
Early to Death, Early to Rise is a strong sequel to Once Dead, Twice Shy. It is light enough to stay fun, but does tackle the idea of fate versus free-will. I really enjoyed watching Madison develop her relationships with Barnabas, Nakita, and Grace, and I appreciated that the entire story did not revolve around a romance. Rather, it shows Madison exploring and growing into her new role while trying to save souls. I do think that new readers should read the first book before taking on this one, as the situation could be confusing without that additional background. Early to Death, Early to Rise was a lot of fun, and I recommend it to those who want a funny, fast-paced supernatural teen read.
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book from HarperCollins Publishers at the ALA Midwinter Conference.
November 26, 2010
2nd in the "Madison Avery" series - and the last one I'll read. The characters are downright unlikable. Madison is a little miss know it all and dumb as a lamp post. She wants to change the way dark reapers and light repears do things but she can't even keep Nakita and Barnabas from arguing or manage one reap without making a huge mess of things because she acts first and thinks later. And most of the book is made up of them - Madison, Barnabas, Nakita and Grace - arguing. About every single, simple thing. All the time. No, just no.
April 14, 2020
Why I gave this book 1 Star:
C1 son of a dead puppy
CH 5 being dead sucked dish water
Ch 8 where The devil am i ?
Ch 10 you are an ass , you fricking hit me
Ch12 very caution of my bare feet and my purple hair , exhaling a breath I probably took 5 minutes ago
Ch 13 puppies from Hades
C1 son of a dead puppy
CH 5 being dead sucked dish water
Ch 8 where The devil am i ?
Ch 10 you are an ass , you fricking hit me
Ch12 very caution of my bare feet and my purple hair , exhaling a breath I probably took 5 minutes ago
Ch 13 puppies from Hades
February 5, 2023
Not too much to say�.it was a solid second book to the trilogy. Some of the plot was a bit predictable, but I sometimes tend to be the queen of predicting what’s going to happen in both movies and books. In any event, I’m looking forwards to seeing how this trilogy concludes.
January 20, 2020
Indiscutiblemente que esta autora y yo no hacemos migas..... no me vuelve loca esta historia.
May 9, 2021
*de fapt încă nu am terminat-o, dar jur că mai mult nu îi dau
July 5, 2013
This was a very short read for me. I felt like a kid but I knew I shouldn't think as such because the topic here involves greater things than dolls and toy trucks.
Here's Madison, still dead. Trying to save the whole world. Well, she's only on one mission in this book. I've forgotten all about the previous story since it was a long time ago. But I remember it was pretty good.
Anyway, what I love about this one is the conflicting ideas between saving a life and saving a soul. Apparently, if you're not human, you'd think the soul is more important than life. For us, humans, I can't generalize but I think we opt for both. I like how Nakita struggles to see reason beyond Madison's explanation about saving a life. Nakita knows only one thing and one thing alone: save a soul. To me, she's the one who seems human in mind and in actions. Sure, she kills people to save them--kinda weird-- but her reactions to the thought of losing a soul is more humane and real. I like how the author tried to blame Madison for putting a guardian angel on Ace (oops, spoiler). It makes Nakita seem more...how do you put it....so vulnerable and helpless but never hopeless.
Madison.... I can't say I like her very much. But I don't hate her. Maybe it's because she acts like a child sometimes, and I think I misunderstood given my age (I'm not too old though!) I mean, I like Shoe's dialogues here way better than hers!
Let me just quote this part:
"This is because I’m going to college? What do you want me to do?
Marry you?
People grow up! Move away! I’m going to college, not the moon! You could go, too, if you wanted!"
I nearly laughed. Mind you, it wasn't funny but it was a smart verbal rebuttal.
I also like this where he was afraid his memories could be wiped out:
“I don’t want to forget this,�
Shoe said wistfully. “I don’t want to forget any of it.�
Madison is a teenager. I get it. Her views are not of a teenager. Swell. But her conversations here or just maybe the choice of words are not quite convincing. When I read it, it's like a kid talking big to the air-- bragging. We know she's not. But from the way I interpret the mixture of her words, it feels unrealistic. What I like about her is being a goth and a skull lover. It's kinda unique for an emo to be a protagonist.
What else can I say? Ron isn't scary here too. I think Barnabas was, near at the end. I was scared when he insisted on wiping out their memories (I've written so much spoilers, haven't I?). At the back of my mind I knew he wouldn't do anything that would upset Madison but there's a gnawing part of me that Barnabas could; what he wants he will get. I'm sure the author is keeping it a secret: the real Barnabas who's turning dark. Creepy.
So, the three stars means saving a soul through killing is a pretty good idea for a plot. But the mission? Goodness, how do you call it, mundane? Maybe I was thinking more like a nuclear bomb or terrorist hijack or maybe I kept forgetting that Madison is still in high school. Anyway, I wasn't really keen to liking the mission here.
Here's Madison, still dead. Trying to save the whole world. Well, she's only on one mission in this book. I've forgotten all about the previous story since it was a long time ago. But I remember it was pretty good.
Anyway, what I love about this one is the conflicting ideas between saving a life and saving a soul. Apparently, if you're not human, you'd think the soul is more important than life. For us, humans, I can't generalize but I think we opt for both. I like how Nakita struggles to see reason beyond Madison's explanation about saving a life. Nakita knows only one thing and one thing alone: save a soul. To me, she's the one who seems human in mind and in actions. Sure, she kills people to save them--kinda weird-- but her reactions to the thought of losing a soul is more humane and real. I like how the author tried to blame Madison for putting a guardian angel on Ace (oops, spoiler). It makes Nakita seem more...how do you put it....so vulnerable and helpless but never hopeless.
Madison.... I can't say I like her very much. But I don't hate her. Maybe it's because she acts like a child sometimes, and I think I misunderstood given my age (I'm not too old though!) I mean, I like Shoe's dialogues here way better than hers!
Let me just quote this part:
"This is because I’m going to college? What do you want me to do?
Marry you?
People grow up! Move away! I’m going to college, not the moon! You could go, too, if you wanted!"
I nearly laughed. Mind you, it wasn't funny but it was a smart verbal rebuttal.
I also like this where he was afraid his memories could be wiped out:
“I don’t want to forget this,�
Shoe said wistfully. “I don’t want to forget any of it.�
Madison is a teenager. I get it. Her views are not of a teenager. Swell. But her conversations here or just maybe the choice of words are not quite convincing. When I read it, it's like a kid talking big to the air-- bragging. We know she's not. But from the way I interpret the mixture of her words, it feels unrealistic. What I like about her is being a goth and a skull lover. It's kinda unique for an emo to be a protagonist.
What else can I say? Ron isn't scary here too. I think Barnabas was, near at the end. I was scared when he insisted on wiping out their memories (I've written so much spoilers, haven't I?). At the back of my mind I knew he wouldn't do anything that would upset Madison but there's a gnawing part of me that Barnabas could; what he wants he will get. I'm sure the author is keeping it a secret: the real Barnabas who's turning dark. Creepy.
So, the three stars means saving a soul through killing is a pretty good idea for a plot. But the mission? Goodness, how do you call it, mundane? Maybe I was thinking more like a nuclear bomb or terrorist hijack or maybe I kept forgetting that Madison is still in high school. Anyway, I wasn't really keen to liking the mission here.
June 23, 2010
Reason for Reading: Next in the series.
A fabulous sequel to Once Dead, Twice Shy! An exciting story from beginning to end that had me glued to the book until I was finished. Once again Kim Harrison finished off with a nice, neat, satisfactory ending without the use of a cliffhanger, though leaving the loose threads and plot direction for the next and what may be the last book of a trilogy. All the characters from book one return so that even though we've had to wait a whole year for this book, their familiarity quickly comes back to mind and the author does give quick mentions throughout of events that happened in book one to refresh our memory without going into a rehash of book one except for a quick half-page prologue.
I really don't want to say a lot about the plot in the book as it carries on from book one taking the main character Madison Avery, who is dead, further along with the job she has been assigned and I don't want to give plot spoilers for either book. We get a greater insight into the workings behind the scenes and while this actually is an angel book where the angels come from heaven and god (with a little g) is once mentioned, the author has taken great liberty to create her own fictional vision of how death works and what part angels play in helping souls to reach heaven. Harrison's vision is fantastical (having nothing to do with Christianity) but does pose some seriously tough questions about free will.
The characters are wonderful. Madison grows into some of her powers and finds it's not all fun and games to be a supernatural being. Madison grows to connect closer and even bond with some of her supernatural friends, Barnabas the light angel and Nakita the dark angel and Grace the guardian angel. Madison's love interest Josh, is not an integral part of this story, but in the brief page time he gets at the beginning and end their relationship does take a step in the right direction.
Some very cool ideas at work in this sequel which not only entertained me but had me thinking and and seeing the point of view of both sides, the Dark and the Light. While, morally, I know where I stand, I can understand the various points of view. It will be very interesting to see how all threads and issues are resolved though I do have an idea as to a possible direction. A great series that I am really enjoying. Just wish I didn't have to wait a whole year for the next book!
A fabulous sequel to Once Dead, Twice Shy! An exciting story from beginning to end that had me glued to the book until I was finished. Once again Kim Harrison finished off with a nice, neat, satisfactory ending without the use of a cliffhanger, though leaving the loose threads and plot direction for the next and what may be the last book of a trilogy. All the characters from book one return so that even though we've had to wait a whole year for this book, their familiarity quickly comes back to mind and the author does give quick mentions throughout of events that happened in book one to refresh our memory without going into a rehash of book one except for a quick half-page prologue.
I really don't want to say a lot about the plot in the book as it carries on from book one taking the main character Madison Avery, who is dead, further along with the job she has been assigned and I don't want to give plot spoilers for either book. We get a greater insight into the workings behind the scenes and while this actually is an angel book where the angels come from heaven and god (with a little g) is once mentioned, the author has taken great liberty to create her own fictional vision of how death works and what part angels play in helping souls to reach heaven. Harrison's vision is fantastical (having nothing to do with Christianity) but does pose some seriously tough questions about free will.
The characters are wonderful. Madison grows into some of her powers and finds it's not all fun and games to be a supernatural being. Madison grows to connect closer and even bond with some of her supernatural friends, Barnabas the light angel and Nakita the dark angel and Grace the guardian angel. Madison's love interest Josh, is not an integral part of this story, but in the brief page time he gets at the beginning and end their relationship does take a step in the right direction.
Some very cool ideas at work in this sequel which not only entertained me but had me thinking and and seeing the point of view of both sides, the Dark and the Light. While, morally, I know where I stand, I can understand the various points of view. It will be very interesting to see how all threads and issues are resolved though I do have an idea as to a possible direction. A great series that I am really enjoying. Just wish I didn't have to wait a whole year for the next book!
November 29, 2017
The sequel started right where the first book left off. Since I read the first book not long ago, I really appreciated that!
As in the first novel the reader gets thrown right into the story without warning and there is no much introduction. Obviously, an introduction is not needed in this one, but in the first one this was definitely confusing.
The story is again very fast paced. The entirety of the storyline plays within roughly a few days (I don't remember how many days exactly).
Madison has not changed much, so my feelings toward her also did not change (I still like her), but I absolutely love the dynamics between Nakita and Barnabas!!! They are "fighting" all the time, but they obviously also kind of like each other and they wouldn't actually hurt each other. As dark and light angles they obviously have differing opinions and they have to deal with it somehow since they are both working for Madison. And they are absolutely loyal to her! Madison has the ability to make people like and trust her. She is always trying to do the right thing and this combined with an innocent naiveté makes her a very likeable person.
Josh didn't really have much of a role in this second book. There was this one special scene with him and Madison, but that's it. And honestly, I don't really feel it was needed. Maybe it will matter some more in the third book, but right now I'm just meh about it and it didn't really pull me in.
A new character named Paul was introduced who is the apprentice of Ron. His character is still a bit blurry in the end and I can't really figure what he's up to, but I think Madison again made use of her "special ability". While Paul had been very reluctant towards her in the beginning, he opened up more and more while getting to know Madison and her motives better. I'm really interested to see how the relationship between those two will develop and also what it is about the colour of his amulet - 'cause apparently there is something odd about it...
Overall, I enjoyed this sequel very much!
As in the first novel the reader gets thrown right into the story without warning and there is no much introduction. Obviously, an introduction is not needed in this one, but in the first one this was definitely confusing.
The story is again very fast paced. The entirety of the storyline plays within roughly a few days (I don't remember how many days exactly).
Madison has not changed much, so my feelings toward her also did not change (I still like her), but I absolutely love the dynamics between Nakita and Barnabas!!! They are "fighting" all the time, but they obviously also kind of like each other and they wouldn't actually hurt each other. As dark and light angles they obviously have differing opinions and they have to deal with it somehow since they are both working for Madison. And they are absolutely loyal to her! Madison has the ability to make people like and trust her. She is always trying to do the right thing and this combined with an innocent naiveté makes her a very likeable person.
Josh didn't really have much of a role in this second book. There was this one special scene with him and Madison, but that's it. And honestly, I don't really feel it was needed. Maybe it will matter some more in the third book, but right now I'm just meh about it and it didn't really pull me in.
A new character named Paul was introduced who is the apprentice of Ron. His character is still a bit blurry in the end and I can't really figure what he's up to, but I think Madison again made use of her "special ability". While Paul had been very reluctant towards her in the beginning, he opened up more and more while getting to know Madison and her motives better. I'm really interested to see how the relationship between those two will develop and also what it is about the colour of his amulet - 'cause apparently there is something odd about it...
Overall, I enjoyed this sequel very much!
May 12, 2011
Ahh another tale of Madison Avery, dead and in charge of dark reapers, a situation she never saw herself in, not only because she never believed in reapers before her death, but also because she doesn't believe in fate (which is her job as a dark timekeeper, to ensure fate is followed by scything a soul before it is sullied).
In this book Madison discovers that just because she doesn't believe in fate, doesn't mean that she can't do her job. She works to save, not only the soul of a mark, but also his life.
I could not put this book down. It's not a long read, but it is quite good, as I have come to expect from a Kim Harrison book. Whether it's part of her Rachel Morgan series, or her YA, I find myself constantly on her website checking release dates.
Now, for the book itself. I still find myself pulled out a bit every she replaces a swear word with things such as 'son of a puppy' or 'puppy presents'. I understand that it's YA, but it's not for a 9 year old. I don't feel like she needs to go to such extremes to avoid using swears, I've read many YA novels that had tons of them. But that is a small failing, in my opinion. If all of the books I read only annoyed me because of swear word choice, the world would be a fantastic place.
I'm getting off topic. Anyway. Fantastic read! I love learning about Madison and her journey to discover her path in life (well, afterlife I suppose, as she's already dead.) I'm eagerly awaiting the release of the next Madison Avery novel.
In this book Madison discovers that just because she doesn't believe in fate, doesn't mean that she can't do her job. She works to save, not only the soul of a mark, but also his life.
I could not put this book down. It's not a long read, but it is quite good, as I have come to expect from a Kim Harrison book. Whether it's part of her Rachel Morgan series, or her YA, I find myself constantly on her website checking release dates.
Now, for the book itself. I still find myself pulled out a bit every she replaces a swear word with things such as 'son of a puppy' or 'puppy presents'. I understand that it's YA, but it's not for a 9 year old. I don't feel like she needs to go to such extremes to avoid using swears, I've read many YA novels that had tons of them. But that is a small failing, in my opinion. If all of the books I read only annoyed me because of swear word choice, the world would be a fantastic place.
I'm getting off topic. Anyway. Fantastic read! I love learning about Madison and her journey to discover her path in life (well, afterlife I suppose, as she's already dead.) I'm eagerly awaiting the release of the next Madison Avery novel.
August 12, 2021
I did not quite get Ron's (the light timekeeper) motivation and that made it hard for me to get into the book. The plot was pretty obvious, but the ending was fun.
July 4, 2011
I absolutely loved Early to Death, Early to Rise. And I don’t know if you know it already, but I’m a huge fan of this series. HUGE. So after reading the first book Once Dead, Twice Shy I could not believe I had to wait till 2011 to read the sequel. And yes I do admit that I did a happy dance when the sequel arrived at my doorstep.
Madison, oh Madison, what can I tell you about her. A kick ass heroine, who’s considerate and at times very hilarious. All of the characters in this story are fantastic. Baranabas is loyal to Madison and every time I was reading about him I had a goofy smile on my face. He’s so fine. And then we have Nakita. OMG. She’s very determined and feisty. She could kill you with just one finger. And I’m serious here. Oh I almost forgot about Grace. She’s reminds me of a fierce, witty Tinkerbelle. You got to love that.
The plot is really good. There’s plenty of action scenes to get an action addict glued to the pages and seriously I was. The story is also fast paced and I was so sad when I reached the last page.
Get it, devour it and love it. Early to Death, Early to Rise is a book you should get!
Madison, oh Madison, what can I tell you about her. A kick ass heroine, who’s considerate and at times very hilarious. All of the characters in this story are fantastic. Baranabas is loyal to Madison and every time I was reading about him I had a goofy smile on my face. He’s so fine. And then we have Nakita. OMG. She’s very determined and feisty. She could kill you with just one finger. And I’m serious here. Oh I almost forgot about Grace. She’s reminds me of a fierce, witty Tinkerbelle. You got to love that.
The plot is really good. There’s plenty of action scenes to get an action addict glued to the pages and seriously I was. The story is also fast paced and I was so sad when I reached the last page.
Get it, devour it and love it. Early to Death, Early to Rise is a book you should get!
July 24, 2010
Don't fear the Reaper? Madison Avery may be dead but that doesn't stop her from trying to do the right thing. Accompanied by her angel and reaper friends, Madison tries to change a system she doesn't believe in while struggling to learn her new timekeeper powers and stay out of detention. As an insanely huge fan of Kim Harrison's The Hollows urban fantasy series I had high expectations for her new Madison Avery series. Harrison doesn't disappoint. While this series is young adult it has all the telltale elements we have come to love from this author; a strong female heroine, wry humor, and an amazingly vivid paranormal filled world. Early to Death, Early to Rise is a fantastic young adult urban fantasy novel filled with endearing characters.
I recommend Early to Death, Early to Rise to readers of young adult, urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and especially to fans of Kim Harrison's The Hollows/Rachel Morgan series.
** Review originally posted on my blog: **
I recommend Early to Death, Early to Rise to readers of young adult, urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and especially to fans of Kim Harrison's The Hollows/Rachel Morgan series.
** Review originally posted on my blog: **
January 28, 2014
The book early to death early to rise by Kim Harrison is a great book. There is action,humor,world building,strong female characters,true friendship,and a bit of realistic romance. So what the book is about this girl named Madison and she is a dark timekeeper and she needs to keep a guy from sending a virus Out and killing everybody in a hospital but she got the wrong person. I picked up this book because it had death in it and it looked interesting .I recommend this book to supernatural action lovers . I have not yet read any thing from the author so this is the first time reading from her. The book didn't turn out the way I thought it would I imagined it being about people in war and some one would stop them and Madison and her friends would stop most of them but no I still liked the book. My favorite character is Madison because she's a strong independent girl. Hope to liked his book
October 18, 2016
In this book I liked the same things I liked in the first: Madison is quite a good heroine, Barnabas is a cool guy and the swear words are fun ( I love original imprecations!). I liked also that this one is a YA without angst, it's a thing that I really appreciated. But I would have liked to see more Josh around, and I was expecting something more. It's not bad and I've really enjoyed the reading but it doesn't happen so much in there and it's a trilogy so I think that the last one would not be so captivating or so full of things, too. But it's a good series, fun to read.
June 1, 2012
Well... It starts out with inconsistencies. I really do NOT like those. However, the story is tight and the characters likable - even the bad ones have something to like, just as they do in real life, and even the good ones have bad sides. Again: as in real life. I love the mythology Harrison has created here and I enjoy reading about Madison and all the people around her. I look forward to getting the next instalment, too. :)
August 14, 2010
I am done with this series now. I thought the first was very sub par, this book being a make or break for me. Really the only good thing that I can say about it, is that with only a little over 200 pages it is a fast read, but I was bored while reading it. I would have gave it up but I honestly thought it would get better, sadly it didn't happen for me.
June 4, 2010
Madison is growing on me. I wasn't sure about her in the prior book but I appreciated the growth she made through out this novel. She is really coming into her own. I liked this installment of the series more so than the last and look forward to the next book.
June 8, 2010
I finished this is one sitting and was only pleased with it. Nothing was wrong with the writing and plot, I guess I just expected more to happen. The plot was really only 1 day in Madison's life. Overall it was fairly good and entertaining at points. I just wished it could've been longer.
July 19, 2010
It is not good as what I had expected. That sounds sad to me. Everything went too perfect and that what I DISLIKED the most. For me, this is too much drama.
January 12, 2015
LOVED just like i love Everything Kim Harrison writes. Perfect amount of darkness snark and kick ass heroine!
March 27, 2015
Short, quick read especially since I figured out a couple chapters in that I'd read it before awhile ago.
Read
September 27, 2021A book. Stuff happens and it means things. I like the theme of fate vs choice, but I think it would resonate better if I were a teenager.
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