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Elemental Assassin #4
Tangled Threads
I’d rather face a dozen lethal assassins any night than deal with something as tricky, convoluted, and fragile as my feelings.
But here I am. Gin Blanco, the semi-retired assassin known as the Spider. Hovering outside sexy businessman Owen Grayson’s front door like a nervous teenage girl. One thing I like about Owen: he doesn’t shy away from my past—or my present. And right now I have a bull’s-eye on my forehead.
Cold-blooded Fire elemental Mab Monroe has hired one of the smartest assassins in the business to trap me. Elektra LaFleur is skilled and efficient, with deadly electrical elemental magic as potent as my own Ice and Stone powers. Which means there’s a fifty-fifty chance one of us won’t survive this battle. I intend to kill LaFleur—or die trying—because Mab wants the assassin to take out my baby sister, Detective Bria Coolidge, too.
The only problem is, Bria has no idea I’m her long-lost sibling . . . or that I’m the murderer she’s been chasing through Ashland for weeks. And what Bria doesn’t know just might get us both dead. . . .
But here I am. Gin Blanco, the semi-retired assassin known as the Spider. Hovering outside sexy businessman Owen Grayson’s front door like a nervous teenage girl. One thing I like about Owen: he doesn’t shy away from my past—or my present. And right now I have a bull’s-eye on my forehead.
Cold-blooded Fire elemental Mab Monroe has hired one of the smartest assassins in the business to trap me. Elektra LaFleur is skilled and efficient, with deadly electrical elemental magic as potent as my own Ice and Stone powers. Which means there’s a fifty-fifty chance one of us won’t survive this battle. I intend to kill LaFleur—or die trying—because Mab wants the assassin to take out my baby sister, Detective Bria Coolidge, too.
The only problem is, Bria has no idea I’m her long-lost sibling . . . or that I’m the murderer she’s been chasing through Ashland for weeks. And what Bria doesn’t know just might get us both dead. . . .
357 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 26, 2011
403 people are currently reading
5524 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Estep
97books11.9kfollowersJennifer Estep is a New York Times, USA Today, and internationally bestselling author who prowls the streets of her imagination in search of her next fantasy idea.
Jennifer is the author of the Elemental Assassin, Section 47, Galactic Bonds, Crown of Shards, Gargoyle Queen, and other fantasy series. She has written more than 40 books, along with numerous novellas and stories.
In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys hanging out with friends and family, doing yoga, and reading fantasy and romance books. She also watches way too much TV and loves all things related to superheroes.
For more information on Jennifer and her books, visit her website at or sign up for her newsletter: .
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Happy reading, everyone! 😎
Jennifer is the author of the Elemental Assassin, Section 47, Galactic Bonds, Crown of Shards, Gargoyle Queen, and other fantasy series. She has written more than 40 books, along with numerous novellas and stories.
In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys hanging out with friends and family, doing yoga, and reading fantasy and romance books. She also watches way too much TV and loves all things related to superheroes.
For more information on Jennifer and her books, visit her website at or sign up for her newsletter: .
FOLLOW JENNIFER ONLINE:
Facebook:
Instagram:
Twitter:
Amazon:
BookBub:
ŷ:
Jennifer's blog:
Jennifer's newsletter:
Happy reading, everyone! 😎
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 881 reviews
March 6, 2021
3.5 stars
The plot of this fourth installment moved in a pretty (disappointingly) linear fashion but it finally pushed three much anticipated side stories forward. I’m ready for the next book!
The plot of this fourth installment moved in a pretty (disappointingly) linear fashion but it finally pushed three much anticipated side stories forward. I’m ready for the next book!
January 8, 2012
Coming off the high from Venom, I had a lot of high hopes for Tangled Threads, Book 4 of the Elemental Assassin series. Unfortunately, it comes up a little short for me.
Unlike the prior novels, where it kicks off with high action, this book definitely has a slower pace. After taking care of Elliott Slater, Gin has sent Mab Monroe a message (as the Spider of course), and Mab's listening. She recruits another assassin, a damn good assassin, to come in and deal with The Spider who continues to pick off Mab's men, making her empire seem vulnerable to the other underground players. Gin may have finally met her match as Elektra LeFleur is an elemental with the power of electricity, and it's every bit as strong as Gin's ice and stone abilities.
Mab's got other plans as well, attempting to start a new nightclub that would make the sex-infused Northern Aggression look like Barney and Friends. It would feature the 8-year-old daughter of one of Northern Aggression's employee's. Can Gin save the little girl in time to keep her from being a victim of pedophilia and other abuse?
Gin's long lost sister, detective Bria Coolidge, gets more screen time and interacts a lot more with Gin. All 3 (Bria, and Gin as Blanco and The Spider) are huge targets, obviously making things a bit complicated, but when isn't it for Gin? Will Bria figure out that Gin is her sister in this book? Where do they go from there?
This book honestly felt like filler to me for the first half. In prior books, I wasn't quite as annoyed with the repetition, but this time it was so rampant. Most readers will not start a series at Book 4, so there is no need to cater to an obvious minority and rehash ad nauseum pretty much everything that happened in the prior books...more than once. The character details are glaringly repetitive (it's been beaten over our heads that the spider is a symbol for patience) as are Gin's one liners like "sloppy sloppy sloppy" "enemy enemy enemy". We get it already! These books are not very long to begin with, so if they will be short, the plot needs to move along.
I really do not get her obsession with Donovan Caine. It was a matter of days that they interacted over a course of weeks and they hooked up twice. Does she even know his middle name? And yet she is soooo broken up about his rejection of her when she know very well that's the reaction most people are going to have when they learn of her "day job". Those two didn't have the kind of connection to me that would warrant her love-sickness lasting throughout the series, so what's the big deal?
I was also a bit annoyed about Owen Grayson. I do believe they are moving a bit too fast and he's fallen for her a bit too easily. It sort of takes the fight out of them finding their way to each other, which I honestly sort of like in my favorite series. I also wish we could see him in action more. His powers are put to use, but I feel like he could be a true badass; if not as good as Gin, then at LEAST as good as Finn.
With that said, once the action got going, it was up to Elemental Assassin standards. I was much more engaged in the latter half, but Elektra's introduction sort of distances the reader from the heart of the story. With Elliott Slater's death, you felt like Gin was getting closer to Mab. It doesn't quite feel the same when Estep keeps bringing in enemies that shield Mab. It slows progress on that front, but the developments in Gin's personal life keep this book from being considered completely as filler.
I would recommend starting this series from the top, but with how it's written, I am assuming that the author doesn't want this to be necessary. I would not recommend starting on this book simply because it's not the best installment in terms of quality. With overarching plot lines, these books really shouldn't be stand alones, and I definitely hope that the repetition is toned down significantly in the next book.
June 7, 2016
3.25 girlfight Stars
My enjoyment of this book increase by about 25% from the rest of the series. Reason 1 for that is that I stopped listening to the audio for this. It’s not that the narrator is bad, she is actually pretty okay. But there is a ton of�
EVERYWHERE and since I’m reading this I can eyeskim most of the rehashes and recaps of every little thing. It feels like there is about 25-30 unnecessary pages of the stuff.
The second reason is Owen. I like him as the love interest. He is new to dating an assassin, but I think he is doing a pretty good job of it.
There relationship jumped kind of fast and I maybe would have liked a little more build up to it�.but still Owen is a good guy and I like their dynamic.
The third reason I liked this a little more was the female assassin that has come to town to kill ‘The Spider� or Gin or both. I love a good girlfight.
There are still some of the same pitfalls in this that there have been in the other books of the series. Mainly an overabundance of recaps and rehashes are the worst offenders. The other thing I wish Estep would move away from is using Rape as the main fear and plot driver. Seriously does every single bad guy have to want to rape Gin, her sister or some other hapless female in the story. There are other ways to create tension and fear and I’d really like it if Estep explored some of those. I’ve really lost count as to how many giants, dwarves and vampires just want to run around raping every female character in the book.
The final show down with the assassin was pretty cool but these are starting to feel a little formula driven.
I know there is a better story in there I’m just waiting to get to it.
My enjoyment of this book increase by about 25% from the rest of the series. Reason 1 for that is that I stopped listening to the audio for this. It’s not that the narrator is bad, she is actually pretty okay. But there is a ton of�
EVERYWHERE and since I’m reading this I can eyeskim most of the rehashes and recaps of every little thing. It feels like there is about 25-30 unnecessary pages of the stuff.
The second reason is Owen. I like him as the love interest. He is new to dating an assassin, but I think he is doing a pretty good job of it.
“What was wrong with giving Gin a key?" he rumbled. "It's not like I could keep her out of the house, even if I wanted to. I thought a key would make things easier, make her feel like she was really welcome here. This is the first time that I've dated an assassin. I don't want to piss her off�
There relationship jumped kind of fast and I maybe would have liked a little more build up to it�.but still Owen is a good guy and I like their dynamic.
The third reason I liked this a little more was the female assassin that has come to town to kill ‘The Spider� or Gin or both. I love a good girlfight.
There are still some of the same pitfalls in this that there have been in the other books of the series. Mainly an overabundance of recaps and rehashes are the worst offenders. The other thing I wish Estep would move away from is using Rape as the main fear and plot driver. Seriously does every single bad guy have to want to rape Gin, her sister or some other hapless female in the story. There are other ways to create tension and fear and I’d really like it if Estep explored some of those. I’ve really lost count as to how many giants, dwarves and vampires just want to run around raping every female character in the book.
The final show down with the assassin was pretty cool but these are starting to feel a little formula driven.
I know there is a better story in there I’m just waiting to get to it.
June 11, 2011
Tangle Threads is the fourth book in Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series. She has created a no holds barred heroine with Gin Blanco, a former assassin called the Spider who wants revenge against the woman who destroyed her entire world when she was barely a teenager. Gin is consumed by revenge to take down Mab Monroe, a powerful, psychotic woman who lives for terrorizing those who are weak. Mab is known as a fire elemental, while Gin has all the elements at her disposal, but prefers to keep with the basics such as knives to get the job done. Only when Gin has killed Mab is when she can move on.
Gin is now stalking Mab with ruthless intent. Along with her dedicated step-bother Finn, (Finn’s father, a former assassin, took Gin in and ended up tortured and murdered years later. Gin also wants to avenge his death) a slick, rich ladies� man who drinks enough coffee to float away, they have staked out Mab and will wait until the right moment to strike against her. But Mab has a vast amount of resources at her disposal. Mab can fight fire with fire and that’s where she hires another deadly assassin to find her mysterious enemy and eliminate her. Mab’s new assassin for hire is Elektra La Fleur, a worthy advisory for Gin. Mab lays out some traps to bring Gin out into the open, but Gin knows better and will continue to lie in wait for the right moment to take out both La Fleur and Mab.
As Gin keeps an eye on her prey, she’s trying to settle down and allow more people she can trust into her life. One such person is her lover, Owen Grayson, one of Ashland’s wealthiest businessmen. Gin ended up saving Owen’s younger sister from a robbery almost gone bad at her barbeque joint she runs. Since then Owen has sneaked into her heart. He’s not afraid of her, nor does he question her lifestyle. He knows what she’s capable of and accepts it. Owen is a wonderful balm for her battered soul. Then there’s detective Bria Collidge, Gin’s younger sister she thought was dead. Gin wants to tell Bria who she is, but is wary Bria may not only arrest her, but hate her when she figures out when Gin has done to in order to survive.
Gin has a whole slew of problems to deal with, as well as finding the time to celebrate Christmas without becoming too bloodied or bruised. It’s never a dull moment for Gin, and when a little girl is taken by Mab for payback against her father for not paying a debt, Gin must try and save her. The rescue will be dangerous, but it’s all part of the game, for Gin is ready to take down Mab by any means necessary in a battle Ashland will never forget.
Jennifer’s Elemental Assassin series is in one word- explosive. You’ll never be bored by any of these books from Jennifer, and Tangled Threads is the best one to date. There have been many characters who live close to the edge and walk that fine line, where there’s no hope in redeeming them. But with Gin, she’s jumped over that line, has done her fair amount of questionable actions but able to live with her conscience. Gin has her own set of morals while taking extreme caution by not welcoming in the darkness that could force her to become like Mab. What saves Gin is her network of friends and family. They keep her from falling into the abyss.
There’s so much rip-roaring action, great dialogue and some eye popping twists and turns in Tangled Threads. And for those romance enthusiasts, you’ll be very satisfied with the Gin and Owen’s current relationship. These two make a great team.
Jennifer is slowly tying up a few loose ends where she doesn’t keep them dangling. The ending is in a way bittersweet, but welcomed because it opens new paths for some characters (mainly with Bria and Finn’s budding “friendship�), including Gin who has become a force to be reckoned with.
If you’re not reading the Elemental Assassin books, you’re really missing out. Jennifer has really hit her stride with Tangled Threads, and is one book that exceeded all my expectations and then some. Do yourself a favor and introduce yourself to Gin and this amazing world Jennifer Estep has created.
Gin is now stalking Mab with ruthless intent. Along with her dedicated step-bother Finn, (Finn’s father, a former assassin, took Gin in and ended up tortured and murdered years later. Gin also wants to avenge his death) a slick, rich ladies� man who drinks enough coffee to float away, they have staked out Mab and will wait until the right moment to strike against her. But Mab has a vast amount of resources at her disposal. Mab can fight fire with fire and that’s where she hires another deadly assassin to find her mysterious enemy and eliminate her. Mab’s new assassin for hire is Elektra La Fleur, a worthy advisory for Gin. Mab lays out some traps to bring Gin out into the open, but Gin knows better and will continue to lie in wait for the right moment to take out both La Fleur and Mab.
As Gin keeps an eye on her prey, she’s trying to settle down and allow more people she can trust into her life. One such person is her lover, Owen Grayson, one of Ashland’s wealthiest businessmen. Gin ended up saving Owen’s younger sister from a robbery almost gone bad at her barbeque joint she runs. Since then Owen has sneaked into her heart. He’s not afraid of her, nor does he question her lifestyle. He knows what she’s capable of and accepts it. Owen is a wonderful balm for her battered soul. Then there’s detective Bria Collidge, Gin’s younger sister she thought was dead. Gin wants to tell Bria who she is, but is wary Bria may not only arrest her, but hate her when she figures out when Gin has done to in order to survive.
Gin has a whole slew of problems to deal with, as well as finding the time to celebrate Christmas without becoming too bloodied or bruised. It’s never a dull moment for Gin, and when a little girl is taken by Mab for payback against her father for not paying a debt, Gin must try and save her. The rescue will be dangerous, but it’s all part of the game, for Gin is ready to take down Mab by any means necessary in a battle Ashland will never forget.
Jennifer’s Elemental Assassin series is in one word- explosive. You’ll never be bored by any of these books from Jennifer, and Tangled Threads is the best one to date. There have been many characters who live close to the edge and walk that fine line, where there’s no hope in redeeming them. But with Gin, she’s jumped over that line, has done her fair amount of questionable actions but able to live with her conscience. Gin has her own set of morals while taking extreme caution by not welcoming in the darkness that could force her to become like Mab. What saves Gin is her network of friends and family. They keep her from falling into the abyss.
There’s so much rip-roaring action, great dialogue and some eye popping twists and turns in Tangled Threads. And for those romance enthusiasts, you’ll be very satisfied with the Gin and Owen’s current relationship. These two make a great team.
Jennifer is slowly tying up a few loose ends where she doesn’t keep them dangling. The ending is in a way bittersweet, but welcomed because it opens new paths for some characters (mainly with Bria and Finn’s budding “friendship�), including Gin who has become a force to be reckoned with.
If you’re not reading the Elemental Assassin books, you’re really missing out. Jennifer has really hit her stride with Tangled Threads, and is one book that exceeded all my expectations and then some. Do yourself a favor and introduce yourself to Gin and this amazing world Jennifer Estep has created.
June 2, 2016
*** 3.87 ***
A buddy read with the UF enthusiasts at BB&B
A buddy read with the UF enthusiasts at BB&B
August 14, 2018
I really love this series. It's just pure, unadulterated fun.
Can't wait for the battle that's building between Gin and her nemesis. Gonna be EXPLOSIVE.
Can't wait for the battle that's building between Gin and her nemesis. Gonna be EXPLOSIVE.
February 10, 2021
Tangled Threads by Jennifer Estep
4th book in the Elemental Assassin series. Urban fantasy. Best read as part of the series.
Gin is the target of a new assassin in town. She must juggle the threat while protecting Bria, Finn, Owen and the rest of her collected family. Mab Monroe still wants the Spider dead.
Fight of good over evil? Giants, desperation, beatings, freedom and killings. It’s a complex world where Gin fights good, while being kinda bad.
I mostly listened to the audio version. I got lost a couple of times because of the dream sequences which in the print version are shown in italics. The repetition of background info is a bit tedious.
Overall a good continuation of the fantasy series.
4th book in the Elemental Assassin series. Urban fantasy. Best read as part of the series.
Gin is the target of a new assassin in town. She must juggle the threat while protecting Bria, Finn, Owen and the rest of her collected family. Mab Monroe still wants the Spider dead.
Fight of good over evil? Giants, desperation, beatings, freedom and killings. It’s a complex world where Gin fights good, while being kinda bad.
I mostly listened to the audio version. I got lost a couple of times because of the dream sequences which in the print version are shown in italics. The repetition of background info is a bit tedious.
Overall a good continuation of the fantasy series.
May 18, 2016
I love Gin!
Yup, shoot me, but I can't not love a sarcastic, badass heroin who knows who and what she wants, especially if she's an assassin who kills and kicks ass whenever and wherever she wants!
So go go Gin, keep it up!
Yup, shoot me, but I can't not love a sarcastic, badass heroin who knows who and what she wants, especially if she's an assassin who kills and kicks ass whenever and wherever she wants!
So go go Gin, keep it up!
April 16, 2017
3.5 Stars. I'm still enjoying the series, though not a lot happened in this book. I love the characters and admire Gin's loyalty and love for her friends and sister. So pleased that she is finally opening up more and letting go of her insecurities.
July 9, 2015
Meine Gedanken zum Buch:
Wie immer steigt man in das Buch mit einer spannenden Szene ein, in der es nicht überrascht, wenn gleich mal ein Zwerg gegrillt oder jemand Gin eine Falle stellt und sie tot sehen will. Aber es wäre nicht Gin Blanco, Ex-Auftragskillerin mit dem Namen � die Spinne, wenn sie keine Geduld hätte und den Braten gleich gerochen hätte. Wie immer ist ihr Ziehbruder Finn an ihrer Seite und ich finde ihn einfach nur genial sympathisch, auch obwohl oder gerade genau weil er ein Weiberheld ist,� aber so genau will ich das gar nicht wissen. ^^ Auf alle Fälle macht es Spaß, wie die zwei miteinander umgehen, oder wie Finn manchmal wie ein kleiner Junge jammert, aber in den riskanten Situationen unbeirrt an Gins Seite steht.
Dieses Mal hat Gin nicht jemanden im Visier, um einen Freund zu schützen, sondern sich selbst. Denn ihre Erzfeindin Mab hat eine andere, legendäre Auftragskillerin namens LaFleur engagiert, um die Spinne, also Gin zu töten. Nebenbei hat Mab aber auch Gins kleine Schwester und Polizistin Bria ins Auge gefasst, was alles zusätzlich anheizt und spannend macht. Daher dreht es sich hier darum, LaFleur auszuschalten, bevor Gin oder Bria ausgeschalten werden� aber es wäre nicht Gin, würde sie nicht so ganz nebenbei auch einen Wohltätigkeitsauftrag annehmen, um ein kleines Mädchen aus Mabs kalten Fingern zu retten. Das alles geht gleichzeitig von statten und nicht nur einmal ist Gin kurz davor, selbst ins Gras zu beißen.
Wie immer hat mir der Actionteil total gut gefallen, und es war auch durchwegs spannend, auch wenn man weiß, dass es gut ausgeht. Manchmal war es kniffliger, wenn Gin die Machenschaften aufdecken musste, dann mal wieder mit vielen Kampfszenen, dass nur so die Fäuste geflogen sind.
Auch mochte ich wieder die Charaktere, die darin vorgekommen sind. Angefangen von Gin, über Finn, die Zwergenfrauen, aber auch die anderen, wie Bria. Auch wenn sich diese noch sehr bedeckt hält. Aber wenn man die Vergangenheit und das Mädchen kennt und die Qual die Gin durch all das in sich trägt, hofft man einfach ständig die ganze Zeit mit, dass sich die beiden wiederfinden.
Tja, und dann wäre da auch noch Owen Grayson... hach, hier sag ich nur *Schnappatmung* und *schmacht* � Ja, so einen hätte wohl jede Frau gerne. :p Ich fand es toll, wie er für Gin da ist, sie voll und ganz akzeptiert und annimmt, auch mit ihren dunklen Seiten und nicht versucht sie zu verbiegen. Er ist so viel mehr Mann als dieser Idiot Donovan in den ersten Teilen� Owen ist mein Schatz� Schade nur, dass er nichts o viel vorgekommen ist, wie er es verdient hätte. Es waren zwar ein paar sexy Szenen mit den beiden dabei, aber noch lange nicht genug für mich! xD Außerdem hätte Gin gerne mehr an ihn denken können, aber da bin ich wohl eigen. :D
Und wie auch schon in den Vorgängern, nervt es mich immer mehr, dass ständig Wiederholungen kommen. Nicht nur, dass sie alles zum hundertsten Mal wiederholt, was in den Vorgängern passiert ist � wiederholt sie auch Dinge, die im Buch gerade passiert sind. Sie schildert regelmäßig die Info über die Runen, ihre Gefühle über die Vergangenheit, die Sachen vom Tod ihrer Familie und lässt Gin reflektieren, reflektieren, reflektieren *gähn* Das hat sich auch hier leider nicht gebessert, und war ein Punkt, der mir das Buch sehr madig gemacht hat.
Das Ende war ebenfalls wie immer gut gemacht mit einem schönen, actionreichen Showdown und danach die tolle Szene zu Weihnachten� da hätte ich schon fast Pipi in den Augen gehabt, weil ich es so schön fand, es so rührend war� langsam wird doch alles gut in Gins Leben� bis auf die Tatsache, dass Mab sie noch immer tot sehen will, und der Zeitpunkt, indem sie sich ihr stellen muss, immer näher kommt. Bin gespannt auf den nächsten Teil. �
(Mehr dazu auf meinem Blog)
November 6, 2018
Tangled Threads is book four in the Elemental Assassin series by Jennifer Estep.
This one takes place a few short weeks after the conclusion of the previous story. Gin has declared war on Mab who is a the fire elemental that runs southern metropolis of Ashland and all around bad lady. Mab is wealthy, powerful, and strong in her magic and so, no one can stand up to her; except maybe Gin.
In Tangled Threads, Mab sends an assassin to kill the Spider and Gin has to eliminate the threat; before it goes after those she cares about. Things start to get complicated and Gin has to tell her sister Bria who she really is. It’s not how she wanted to tell her sister, but things get hairy and her hands where tied. Gin is put into situations that force her to face some uncomfortable emotions; which make her learn and grow. These emotions force her to explore her feelings and learn to trust. I throughly enjoyed the emotions Gin is forced to face. I also like that her elemental magic continues to grow and evolve.
The only thing I didn’t care for in this novel is all the repetition. We get recaps of prior events, phrases, ideas, and of who everyone is and what they mean to Gin. We are onto book four and I don’t need the recap on characters, phrases, ideas, ect� It got old fast and took away from the flow of the story and some of my enjoyment.
Overall, I’m having a blast with the Elemental Assassin series and can’t wait to pick up the next.
Rated: 4 Stars
This one takes place a few short weeks after the conclusion of the previous story. Gin has declared war on Mab who is a the fire elemental that runs southern metropolis of Ashland and all around bad lady. Mab is wealthy, powerful, and strong in her magic and so, no one can stand up to her; except maybe Gin.
In Tangled Threads, Mab sends an assassin to kill the Spider and Gin has to eliminate the threat; before it goes after those she cares about. Things start to get complicated and Gin has to tell her sister Bria who she really is. It’s not how she wanted to tell her sister, but things get hairy and her hands where tied. Gin is put into situations that force her to face some uncomfortable emotions; which make her learn and grow. These emotions force her to explore her feelings and learn to trust. I throughly enjoyed the emotions Gin is forced to face. I also like that her elemental magic continues to grow and evolve.
The only thing I didn’t care for in this novel is all the repetition. We get recaps of prior events, phrases, ideas, and of who everyone is and what they mean to Gin. We are onto book four and I don’t need the recap on characters, phrases, ideas, ect� It got old fast and took away from the flow of the story and some of my enjoyment.
Overall, I’m having a blast with the Elemental Assassin series and can’t wait to pick up the next.
Rated: 4 Stars
July 24, 2018
Interestingly the things that quite irritated me for the first couple of books, phrases used by the author, repetitive information etc, these have become part of the charm of this series.
June 26, 2016
I almost dnf'ed this because of the constant recaps, but instead I put it aside for a few weeks and then continued it. The last 20-30% saved it somewhat, so 2,5 stars it is.
October 6, 2024
Gin ahora este en guerra abierta contra Mag Monroe, pero también esta comenzando una relación con Owen e intentando reconectar con Bria, su hermanita. Todo esto la mantiene ocupada, así que cuando se da cuenta que Mag a contratado a una asesina para acabar con ella, tiene que hacer todo lo posible para evitarlo, no solo por ella, sino también por la cantidad de personas por las que se preocupa ahora. Pero Owen realmente la aceptará con todas sus fallas? Podrá confesarle a su hermana quien es ella? Podrá eliminar a esta asesina antes de que lo haga ella primero?
Este libro es muchísimo mas emocional que los anteriores. Aquí nuestra prota, por fin acepta que tiene "familia" que realmente se preocupa por ella, y que la quiere con todos sus problemas y defectos, y que van a ayudarla en todo lo que puedan. También nos descubre mucho mas del pasado de la prota, y como ambas mujeres llegaron a ser quienes son ahora. Además, ya sabemos las razones para que Mag las quiere muertas (una razón que me parece un poco loca), y sabemos de lo que es capaz.
Sin embargo, la repetición de muchas de las situaciones, conversaciones, sentimientos y descripciones de personas, se esta volviendo aburrido, hasta el punto que casi me brinco párrafos enteres de la lectura solo para no volver a leer lo mismo una y otra vez.
En fin, tengo curiosidad de saber que va a pasar con nuestra prota cuando por fin valla por la mala mas grande, Mag Monroe, así que voy a seguir leyendo la serie.
Este libro es muchísimo mas emocional que los anteriores. Aquí nuestra prota, por fin acepta que tiene "familia" que realmente se preocupa por ella, y que la quiere con todos sus problemas y defectos, y que van a ayudarla en todo lo que puedan. También nos descubre mucho mas del pasado de la prota, y como ambas mujeres llegaron a ser quienes son ahora. Además, ya sabemos las razones para que Mag las quiere muertas (una razón que me parece un poco loca), y sabemos de lo que es capaz.
Sin embargo, la repetición de muchas de las situaciones, conversaciones, sentimientos y descripciones de personas, se esta volviendo aburrido, hasta el punto que casi me brinco párrafos enteres de la lectura solo para no volver a leer lo mismo una y otra vez.
En fin, tengo curiosidad de saber que va a pasar con nuestra prota cuando por fin valla por la mala mas grande, Mag Monroe, así que voy a seguir leyendo la serie.
June 19, 2017
3.5 stars out of 5. I’m really looking forward to hearing the author in August at the When Words Collide conference.
Gin is up against another assassin in Tangled Threads and is learning to navigate new abilities that she has finally managed to access. Plus she’s negotiating a new, potentially great relationship with Owen Grayson. Now if only she could find a way to tell her long-lost sister who she is�.
Once again, there is plenty of action, I like where the plot is going, we make good progress in every book. So why only 3.5 stars, you ask? Because of several writing ‘ticks� that get on my nerves—the constant recital of where Gin keeps all of her knives, the obsession over eye colours, repeated references to what everybody’s personal runes look like, the frequent repetition of how Gin got Silverstone embedded in her palms (and ended up an orphan), plus the constant comparisons of the accepting Own to rejecting Donovan. And if I hear about Finn drinking chicory coffee just like his dear old dad one more time�..
This is the fourth book, people. We know all that stuff. A teeny bit of repeat would be acceptable to clue-in folks who skipped the first three, but the amount of repetition is excessive. It’s a good thing that I like the characters, that I enjoy the circle of friends & family that Gin is building around herself—that aspect of Ashland I’m quite attached to.
Not sure how much longer Estep can draw out this confrontation with the evil Mab Monroe, but I want to see how it all turns out!
Gin is up against another assassin in Tangled Threads and is learning to navigate new abilities that she has finally managed to access. Plus she’s negotiating a new, potentially great relationship with Owen Grayson. Now if only she could find a way to tell her long-lost sister who she is�.
Once again, there is plenty of action, I like where the plot is going, we make good progress in every book. So why only 3.5 stars, you ask? Because of several writing ‘ticks� that get on my nerves—the constant recital of where Gin keeps all of her knives, the obsession over eye colours, repeated references to what everybody’s personal runes look like, the frequent repetition of how Gin got Silverstone embedded in her palms (and ended up an orphan), plus the constant comparisons of the accepting Own to rejecting Donovan. And if I hear about Finn drinking chicory coffee just like his dear old dad one more time�..
This is the fourth book, people. We know all that stuff. A teeny bit of repeat would be acceptable to clue-in folks who skipped the first three, but the amount of repetition is excessive. It’s a good thing that I like the characters, that I enjoy the circle of friends & family that Gin is building around herself—that aspect of Ashland I’m quite attached to.
Not sure how much longer Estep can draw out this confrontation with the evil Mab Monroe, but I want to see how it all turns out!
April 6, 2018
4.5 Stars... I loved this addition to the series; truths are revealed and emotions run high in this action packed adventure... I loved seeing this vulnerable side to Gin's character; her need to connect and feel tied to others especially Owen and Bria brings a whole new aspect to her already intriguing character; these developing relationships are intense and multi-layered leaving me fully invested in their outcome... I continue to adore Finn in all of his sarcastic, arrogant humor and the potential connection to Bria... The overall storyline continues to unfold in interesting ways creating more depth to the storyline that leaves me wanting more and more... looking forward to continuing this unique and fascinating series:)
July 29, 2015
*Re-read July 2015*
July 29, 2015
Really enjoyed this one - Gin is one kick-ass chick! Great fight scenes - overall a past paced terrific read! :)
May 29, 2016
Weekly buddy read with my fellow UF addicts at BB&B.
Dammit! I was betting that this time Gin will go after Jonah MacAllister. I just want to see him squirm and plead for his miserable life so much. More so than I want to see Mab do the same.
Aside from not going according to my own prediction this book was pretty damn good. Maybe a little bit less interesting than the previous one but still better than the first two. There's a new Mab minion in town that's taken the place of the late Elliot Slater. And she happens to be an assassin, just like Gin. Or not just like Gin, because Gin's not a sadistic bitch that gets her kicks out of torturing people. This LaFleur woman is dangerous and crazy as hell. So for a little while Gin was worried. Gin's lack of confidence in her own magical abilities was almost her downfall this time around. She should really develop them and learn her limits before going against Mab. So far luck has favoured her but leaving such a powerful weapon undeveloped smacks me as sloppy ;)
LaFleur was annoying as hell. It was only fitting that her arrogance was the reason for her demise because her ego was bigger than the Earth. And because of that she was so easily goaded into doing something stupid. In a way LaFleur is what Gin could have been if she depended on her elemental magic for every hit. Eventually the big bad LaFleur run into someone who could withstand her lightnings and things ended badly for the cocky assassin. There was an appropriate amount of dead bodies and blood by the time Gin finished off LaFleur and her giant helpers to satisfy my bloodthirsty heart so I'm more than happy with the outcome.
Personally I found the other two plotlines more interesting. They both involve emotions, something Gin's not good at. The first is the situation with Detective Bria Cooliedge (I might have misspelled the surname but I'm too lazy to go and check it out). Gin's afraid of what Bria's reaction will be when she finds out that the Spider and Gin are the same person aka her big sister Genevieve Snow. Bria's uptight, by the book, law abiding cop that's been trying to capture the Spider and bring her to justice. And since Gin already had her heart broken by another uptight, by the book, law abiding cop just a few weeks ago (I'll complain about Donovan later) it's normal that she's apprehensive. Especially considering that this is a much more important relationship than the one with Donovan. Gin spends a lot of time fretting about the outcome of that particular reunion and all of her friends and family are right along with her. I loved how all of them were pestering her to take that step and arranging situations in which the two of them will have to meet. Maybe things would have gone better if Gin had told the truth to Bria in another fashion that the one LaFleur forced on them but I think this was better because it got through Bria's thick skull that the law won't help her always and especially not in Ashland. The good thing is that after the initial shock wore off Bria is willing to try and make it work.
The other emotional thread running trough this book was Gin's relationship with Owen. *dreamy sigh* Owen Grayson is everything a girl could wish for. Aside of the obvious he's also steadfast and reliable. e understands that Gin carries around some heavy baggage and is not afraid of her past or present. But those are things that scare Gin because she's used to being alone and that people will turn away from her once they know the truth. I think that would have been a problem even if Donovan Caine hadn't made such a mess when he left but that only made things worse. I'm annoyed that that jerk still plays a role in Gin's mind even though he's been gone for a while and most importantly they never really had any relationship. They were fuck buddies at best and I'm not sure you can call them even that. A one night stand is more like it even if they actually had sex on two different occasions. Sorry but that's not a relationship and it's just plain sad that Gin'worked it up into something else in her mind. And poor Owen had to suffer through her constant comparison between the two. Sure he always came on top but it still must have smarted. Thankfully Gin wizened up in the end and let Owen into her heart.
And now with her family firmly behind her it's time for Gin to face the notorious Mab Monroe and finish off the bitch.
Dammit! I was betting that this time Gin will go after Jonah MacAllister. I just want to see him squirm and plead for his miserable life so much. More so than I want to see Mab do the same.
Aside from not going according to my own prediction this book was pretty damn good. Maybe a little bit less interesting than the previous one but still better than the first two. There's a new Mab minion in town that's taken the place of the late Elliot Slater. And she happens to be an assassin, just like Gin. Or not just like Gin, because Gin's not a sadistic bitch that gets her kicks out of torturing people. This LaFleur woman is dangerous and crazy as hell. So for a little while Gin was worried. Gin's lack of confidence in her own magical abilities was almost her downfall this time around. She should really develop them and learn her limits before going against Mab. So far luck has favoured her but leaving such a powerful weapon undeveloped smacks me as sloppy ;)
LaFleur was annoying as hell. It was only fitting that her arrogance was the reason for her demise because her ego was bigger than the Earth. And because of that she was so easily goaded into doing something stupid. In a way LaFleur is what Gin could have been if she depended on her elemental magic for every hit. Eventually the big bad LaFleur run into someone who could withstand her lightnings and things ended badly for the cocky assassin. There was an appropriate amount of dead bodies and blood by the time Gin finished off LaFleur and her giant helpers to satisfy my bloodthirsty heart so I'm more than happy with the outcome.
Personally I found the other two plotlines more interesting. They both involve emotions, something Gin's not good at. The first is the situation with Detective Bria Cooliedge (I might have misspelled the surname but I'm too lazy to go and check it out). Gin's afraid of what Bria's reaction will be when she finds out that the Spider and Gin are the same person aka her big sister Genevieve Snow. Bria's uptight, by the book, law abiding cop that's been trying to capture the Spider and bring her to justice. And since Gin already had her heart broken by another uptight, by the book, law abiding cop just a few weeks ago (I'll complain about Donovan later) it's normal that she's apprehensive. Especially considering that this is a much more important relationship than the one with Donovan. Gin spends a lot of time fretting about the outcome of that particular reunion and all of her friends and family are right along with her. I loved how all of them were pestering her to take that step and arranging situations in which the two of them will have to meet. Maybe things would have gone better if Gin had told the truth to Bria in another fashion that the one LaFleur forced on them but I think this was better because it got through Bria's thick skull that the law won't help her always and especially not in Ashland. The good thing is that after the initial shock wore off Bria is willing to try and make it work.
The other emotional thread running trough this book was Gin's relationship with Owen. *dreamy sigh* Owen Grayson is everything a girl could wish for. Aside of the obvious he's also steadfast and reliable. e understands that Gin carries around some heavy baggage and is not afraid of her past or present. But those are things that scare Gin because she's used to being alone and that people will turn away from her once they know the truth. I think that would have been a problem even if Donovan Caine hadn't made such a mess when he left but that only made things worse. I'm annoyed that that jerk still plays a role in Gin's mind even though he's been gone for a while and most importantly they never really had any relationship. They were fuck buddies at best and I'm not sure you can call them even that. A one night stand is more like it even if they actually had sex on two different occasions. Sorry but that's not a relationship and it's just plain sad that Gin'worked it up into something else in her mind. And poor Owen had to suffer through her constant comparison between the two. Sure he always came on top but it still must have smarted. Thankfully Gin wizened up in the end and let Owen into her heart.
And now with her family firmly behind her it's time for Gin to face the notorious Mab Monroe and finish off the bitch.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2016
Once upon a time, I’d been a happy little girl with a mother and two sisters who had loved her. But fate or destiny or even simply circumstance had turned me into a killer. It was a choice that I’d embraced and something that I’d had to do in order to survive.
Things for assassin Gin Blanco is never dull. Especially not since she declared war on Mab Monroe. And things just got a lot more complicated when Mab decides to hire an assassin to take out the Spider for her. Because let’s face it, Mab was never going to take on Gin herself. That would have been too easy.
And Elektra LaFleur is a very skilled assassin, one with powerful electrical elemental magic, and who loves torturing with it. Gin definitely has her worked cut out for her with this one. Luckily she is not alone as her loyal friends Finn, Jo Jo and Sophia are there to help.
I shrugged. “What can I say? I seem to attract minions wherever I go these days. Kind of like the Pied Piper.�
Behind me, Finn huffed out his displeasure. “Minion? I am most certainly not a mere minion. Head minion, perhaps. At the very least.�
I absolutely adore the charming, and manwhore Finn, and the dwarfs Jo Jo and Sophia are amazing. The puzzle that is Sophia continues to intrigue me, and I wonder when we will find out what happened to her.
Unfortunately Mab has also put a hit on Gin’s baby sister, Detective Bria Coolidge. And because Bria doesn’t know that Gin is her sister, things are very complicated for Gin. But she will do whatever she has to do to ensure the safety of her sister, and to make sure she stays alive so that she can take down Mab.
As always there were many action packed moments. Every instalment we get closer to the battle that we’ve all been waiting for: Mab and Gin. And I’m pretty sure it’s going to be epic ;-)
Gin is definitely one of my favorite UF heroine’s. She is exactly as you expect an assassin to be: skilled, calm and deadly. Her loyalty to her friends and her family, the way she loves them, how she does whatever she has to ensure their safety, is fantastic!!
So many things happened in this book between Gin and Bria. Some of it good, but a lot of it sad. My heart just breaks for Gin every time she is rejected because of who she is, and what she has had to do to survive. But I’m hopeful that things between these two will work itself out, and that Gin will finally have her little sister back.
We also learned more about Fletcher, and why he was involved in that awful night. With every book a little more is revealed about the Tin Man, and I just love him.
“There’s nothing I can do that’s going to drive you away, is there?� I murmured.
Owen flashed me a sly grin. “Finally figuring that out, are you?�
I nodded.
His grin deepened. “Well, it sure took you long enough.
Gin’s love life is definitely better since she got involved with Owen Grayson. I love how he accepts her just as she is, and never judges her because of her assassin status. He seems to really care for her, and I’m really looking forward to see where things will go with them. And can I just say how very happy I am about the sexy times ;-)
I’m REALLY enjoying this series!! This is a wonderful UF series, despite all the repetitive writing, and I cannot wait to read the next book. Highly recommended to all UF fans.
May 22, 2011
*SPOILERS* This book was very fragmented compared to the others in the series. The last quarter of the book finally comes to life, but for me, the repetition was so overdone that the book never really took off. I saw it through to the end, but that had more to do with the merit of the previous books than this one. I admit to liking where she went with some of the relationships in the book but unfortunately, that was it. The main strength of this series has been the cool elemental powers JE endows her heroes and villains with and the interesting world building JE reveals through her supporting characters (dwarves, giants, vampire hookers etc.) In the other books the plot allowed more of these elements to be revealed. In this book, there were was nothing new to be revealed in the urban fantasy world, zero new in the elemental department except for one new villain whose powers are revealed to their full extent in the first chapter. Repetition of even the most basic observations and statements were impossible not to notice. I.e, Explaining she is "Me. Gin Blanco"...assassin, spider - with that exact phrasing 7 times alone. Then, repeats without exact phraising many, many other times. She refers to her sister Bria as "My baby sister, Bria" 26 times. Around the 10th time she said it, I thought, who thinks of their sibling with the same adjective attached in all circumstances? Especially when their sister is a tough, hard working cop? *SPOILERS FROM HERE ON* Finally, there was one repetition that was to me was unforgivable. It was bad enough that we learned of the possible fate of Natasha (8 or 10 year old girl, we never learn which) and the heinous plans Mab has in store for her. But Gin explains it over and over again. Either restating Mab's plans or saying the girl is probably already dead. Then, when we find the girl we are to believe that more mercenary sexual deviants must have been lurking about (but not identified)? or at least all giant guards? Wait, I thought Mab was catering to sexual deviants for $$? Then, not to worry, that's not what's in store for her after all. Mab says she has the "wrong coloring". To me, if your going to include the topic of pedaphilia in your story, it better be written very well. It's not something to beat your reader carelessly over the head with, then tamper with (as in oh wait bad things have already happened now even tho club isn't even built yet) and oh wait, we don't need kid for that after all - in order to add some immediate urgency to the plot.
There are obvious plot-holes that with the help of an editor could have been avoided. At one point, new villain Elektra sees Gin fall into the river. Finn is able to guess over the phone where she may have come ashore enough to tell Owen where to begin looking for her, but we are supposed to believe that Mab Monroe and her goons are so involved with the fire that she doesn't even think to send anyone to check to see where she may have washed ashore? Elektra herself doesn't think to search? Very odd that she would be so distracted that her super-arch enemy is not pursued by anyone from the villain camp. My main question for JE is, where was your editor? All of these things should have been caught by her editor. Poor editing really, really let Jennifer Estep down on this one.
There are obvious plot-holes that with the help of an editor could have been avoided. At one point, new villain Elektra sees Gin fall into the river. Finn is able to guess over the phone where she may have come ashore enough to tell Owen where to begin looking for her, but we are supposed to believe that Mab Monroe and her goons are so involved with the fire that she doesn't even think to send anyone to check to see where she may have washed ashore? Elektra herself doesn't think to search? Very odd that she would be so distracted that her super-arch enemy is not pursued by anyone from the villain camp. My main question for JE is, where was your editor? All of these things should have been caught by her editor. Poor editing really, really let Jennifer Estep down on this one.
November 6, 2020
4.5 Stars
Tangled Threads was another excellent addition to the Elemental Assassin series and a great follow up to Venom.
After declaring war on fire elemental Mab Monroe, Gin Blanco knew she had her work cut out for her if she hoped to make it out alive. And Mab is throwing everything she has at Gin which includes hiring assassin Elektra LaFleur, a skilled elemental with electrical magic. With LaFleur's magic as strong as Gin's own, there's no telling if either of them will survive their encounter. But after Mab orders LaFleur to also kill Gin's younger sister, Gin is going to stop LaFleur even if it kills her.
The addition of another assassin who is on Gin's level as the Spider was an interesting development. We know Gin is one of the best in the business, so there are very few other assassins out there who would have the ability to take her on. I thought Mab's strategy here was a smart one as using another assassin was a path that Gin and company didn't expect, so they were caught off guard when LaFleur showed up. Gin then had to rework her plan of attack as another assassin would have a lot of the same skills as Gin and would expect a lot of the moves she would make. Plus add in LaFleur's very deadly electrical magic and Gin is facing one of her toughest opponents. I thought the couple of confrontations with LaFleur were very well done. The suspense and pacing of the scenes were great with the perfect amount of action mixed in. Overall I was happy with the way the situation resolved and I'm interested to see how the situation between Gin and Mab will be resolved.
Gin continues to be an amazing character and I've enjoyed watching her development over the first four books in the series. The growing power of her elemental magic in particular has been interesting as while not something Gin wants to rely on, she's coming up against more situations where it's become necessary to use it. I'm looking forward to whenever Gin fully embraces her power as I have a feeling that's when her abilities will become even more advanced. The side characters in this series continue to be fantastic. Gin's relationship with Finn is amazing and I'm loving watching her developing relationship with Bria. The two sibling relationships Gin has are so different, I'm interested to see how her relationship with Bria changes. Owen once again is one of my favorite characters and I'm loving his relationship with Gin. The two complement each other so well and I'm loving how Gin allows herself to be more vulnerable with Owen. I'm definitely looking forward to watching their relationship develop as the series goes on.
Overall Tangled Threads was a fantastic read and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series, Spider's Revenge, soon. I highly recommend this series if you're looking for an amazing urban fantasy series.
Tangled Threads was another excellent addition to the Elemental Assassin series and a great follow up to Venom.
After declaring war on fire elemental Mab Monroe, Gin Blanco knew she had her work cut out for her if she hoped to make it out alive. And Mab is throwing everything she has at Gin which includes hiring assassin Elektra LaFleur, a skilled elemental with electrical magic. With LaFleur's magic as strong as Gin's own, there's no telling if either of them will survive their encounter. But after Mab orders LaFleur to also kill Gin's younger sister, Gin is going to stop LaFleur even if it kills her.
The addition of another assassin who is on Gin's level as the Spider was an interesting development. We know Gin is one of the best in the business, so there are very few other assassins out there who would have the ability to take her on. I thought Mab's strategy here was a smart one as using another assassin was a path that Gin and company didn't expect, so they were caught off guard when LaFleur showed up. Gin then had to rework her plan of attack as another assassin would have a lot of the same skills as Gin and would expect a lot of the moves she would make. Plus add in LaFleur's very deadly electrical magic and Gin is facing one of her toughest opponents. I thought the couple of confrontations with LaFleur were very well done. The suspense and pacing of the scenes were great with the perfect amount of action mixed in. Overall I was happy with the way the situation resolved and I'm interested to see how the situation between Gin and Mab will be resolved.
Gin continues to be an amazing character and I've enjoyed watching her development over the first four books in the series. The growing power of her elemental magic in particular has been interesting as while not something Gin wants to rely on, she's coming up against more situations where it's become necessary to use it. I'm looking forward to whenever Gin fully embraces her power as I have a feeling that's when her abilities will become even more advanced. The side characters in this series continue to be fantastic. Gin's relationship with Finn is amazing and I'm loving watching her developing relationship with Bria. The two sibling relationships Gin has are so different, I'm interested to see how her relationship with Bria changes. Owen once again is one of my favorite characters and I'm loving his relationship with Gin. The two complement each other so well and I'm loving how Gin allows herself to be more vulnerable with Owen. I'm definitely looking forward to watching their relationship develop as the series goes on.
Overall Tangled Threads was a fantastic read and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series, Spider's Revenge, soon. I highly recommend this series if you're looking for an amazing urban fantasy series.
May 1, 2011
The long arc is interesting, action packed, progresses quickly and engenders compassion regarding some of the characters. The romance makes nice in-roads and Gin makes some strides dealing with her personal issues concerning being close to people and worthiness. There is some movement with the situation with her sister.
There was about 17 chapters devoted to just bringing the reader up to speed with the backstory and world building. Perhaps I'd be more kind about this if I hadn't read this series back to back, but the amount of repetition just within this book alone has become nearly intolerable. After four books in a row it's made me ready to scream.
Also, there were two instances that marked a "how did they find out about that? The last book they didn't know for sure yet" spot in the story that were jarring, pulling me out of suspension of disbelief and making me question the story line.
I still don't understand why this strong, self sufficient, pragmatic heroine hasn't stolen my empathy if not my heart - but these books are only ok for me, not gripping.
Another 3.5 but I'm erring low rather than high this time for the repetition factor.
There was about 17 chapters devoted to just bringing the reader up to speed with the backstory and world building. Perhaps I'd be more kind about this if I hadn't read this series back to back, but the amount of repetition just within this book alone has become nearly intolerable. After four books in a row it's made me ready to scream.
Also, there were two instances that marked a "how did they find out about that? The last book they didn't know for sure yet" spot in the story that were jarring, pulling me out of suspension of disbelief and making me question the story line.
I still don't understand why this strong, self sufficient, pragmatic heroine hasn't stolen my empathy if not my heart - but these books are only ok for me, not gripping.
Another 3.5 but I'm erring low rather than high this time for the repetition factor.
May 12, 2017
I feel like this series gets progressively better as Gin gathers her core group of friends/family and as we get to know them. A new assassin is in town and is after Gin, and our heroine continues on her quest to go after Mab. There is a good amount of action, but my favorite part is the characters.
April 20, 2011
How disappointing!! I don't usually do this, but I'm going to have to pull out a half star. Tangled Threads deserves more of a 2.5 as opposed to a solid 3 star rating.
Before I dive into my complaints (which I will try to keep to a minimum), I want to point out what I enjoyed about the story. I was pleased with the ending. I'm glad a certain secret is finally revealed along with the backstory regarding Fletcher's involvement. I thought Finn's potential relationship was a cute idea. There were several things that I liked about the book overall, but unfortunately they didn't occur until I had surpassed page 200.
I still think Gin's character is bad-ass. She isn't afraid of anyone or any challenge and she pursues her goals even if the outcome isn't entirely in her favor. I love that about her. That being said, my problem isn't with Gin, it's with the writing.
First problem - the eavesdropping. Entirely too much confidential, urgently important information was obtained by simply eavesdropping. It was too convenient.
I'll give two examples. Standing at a bar in a restaurant, Vinnie overhears Mab's plans to create her ultra-evil super-villian nightclub. Um . . . . . really? Who would discuss dismembering women and prostituting children out openly at a restaurant?! Vinnie passes along everything, including who was hired to be in charge of the place. If they were discussing such illicit plans, wouldn't they, at the very least, speak in code?
Then, at the train yard, Gin slides in just in time to hear about plans to assassinate someone that is very important to her and discovers the exact location of . This also happens when Gin first tails Vinnie. The "bad guys" lay out all of the details that Vinnie was meant to follow, in their entirety, before they attempt to kill him. It just seemed as if too many things just fell into Gin's lap.
My next problem was with the recycled lines. Too many points were being made over and over again. I wanted to scream, "I GOT IT THE FIRST TIME!". Unfortunately, I didn't think that would help. Again, I'll give a couple of examples.
"Jonah McAllister also happened to hate me, since he suspected me of being involved with his son, Jake's, death a few weeks ago." ...... "McAllister had even had Slater and some of his giant goons attack me one night over at Ashland Community College."
12 PAGES LATER
"Jonah McAllister hated me." ...... "Plus, McAllister thought that I knew something about Jake's murder. That's why he'd had Elliot Slater almost beat me to death a few weeks ago at the community college."
If that's not bad enough, how about this one?
"I looked into his violet gaze,"....."searching for a sign, a hint, a flash of feeling that would tell me that he'd finally wised up......" "As always, I saw nothing. No fear, no condemnation, no disgust. Only acceptance."
"I stared into his violet eyes, looking once again for any hint, any sign, that he'd finally wised up"... "But there was nothing in his gaze but warm acceptance..."
"Once again, I stared into Owen's eyes, searching for any sign, any hint, that he was somehow disgusted by my plan to kill LaFleur." ... "But there was nothing in his gaze but understanding."
If the repetitive thoughts weren't enough to irritate me, then the overwhelming amount of backstory would do the job. I understood in the beginning how some parts were relevant additions to the story (even the 15 different times that we are told that Mab killed Gin's mother and sister), but when I exceeded 150 pages I expected it to at least tone down a little. That didn't happen.
Instead, I had to read 5 or 6 paragraphs detailing the framed runes that we all know are over the fireplace. It was so bad that during the final battle, we had to pause and reflect on Gin's previous fight with Alexis James. We are reminded how she would flay people alive with her magic, how she tortured and killed Fletcher, and how she attempted to do the same to Gin. I failed to see how a flashback was appropriate or even relevant at that moment. I honestly felt like 20% of this book was original material. It was very disappointing.
I wish I could have enjoyed this more because I've really loved the other books in this series. Now all I can do is wait for Spider's Revenge.
Before I dive into my complaints (which I will try to keep to a minimum), I want to point out what I enjoyed about the story. I was pleased with the ending. I'm glad a certain secret is finally revealed along with the backstory regarding Fletcher's involvement. I thought Finn's potential relationship was a cute idea. There were several things that I liked about the book overall, but unfortunately they didn't occur until I had surpassed page 200.
I still think Gin's character is bad-ass. She isn't afraid of anyone or any challenge and she pursues her goals even if the outcome isn't entirely in her favor. I love that about her. That being said, my problem isn't with Gin, it's with the writing.
First problem - the eavesdropping. Entirely too much confidential, urgently important information was obtained by simply eavesdropping. It was too convenient.
I'll give two examples. Standing at a bar in a restaurant, Vinnie overhears Mab's plans to create her ultra-evil super-villian nightclub. Um . . . . . really? Who would discuss dismembering women and prostituting children out openly at a restaurant?! Vinnie passes along everything, including who was hired to be in charge of the place. If they were discussing such illicit plans, wouldn't they, at the very least, speak in code?
Then, at the train yard, Gin slides in just in time to hear about plans to assassinate someone that is very important to her and discovers the exact location of . This also happens when Gin first tails Vinnie. The "bad guys" lay out all of the details that Vinnie was meant to follow, in their entirety, before they attempt to kill him. It just seemed as if too many things just fell into Gin's lap.
My next problem was with the recycled lines. Too many points were being made over and over again. I wanted to scream, "I GOT IT THE FIRST TIME!". Unfortunately, I didn't think that would help. Again, I'll give a couple of examples.
"Jonah McAllister also happened to hate me, since he suspected me of being involved with his son, Jake's, death a few weeks ago." ...... "McAllister had even had Slater and some of his giant goons attack me one night over at Ashland Community College."
12 PAGES LATER
"Jonah McAllister hated me." ...... "Plus, McAllister thought that I knew something about Jake's murder. That's why he'd had Elliot Slater almost beat me to death a few weeks ago at the community college."
If that's not bad enough, how about this one?
"I looked into his violet gaze,"....."searching for a sign, a hint, a flash of feeling that would tell me that he'd finally wised up......" "As always, I saw nothing. No fear, no condemnation, no disgust. Only acceptance."
"I stared into his violet eyes, looking once again for any hint, any sign, that he'd finally wised up"... "But there was nothing in his gaze but warm acceptance..."
"Once again, I stared into Owen's eyes, searching for any sign, any hint, that he was somehow disgusted by my plan to kill LaFleur." ... "But there was nothing in his gaze but understanding."
If the repetitive thoughts weren't enough to irritate me, then the overwhelming amount of backstory would do the job. I understood in the beginning how some parts were relevant additions to the story (even the 15 different times that we are told that Mab killed Gin's mother and sister), but when I exceeded 150 pages I expected it to at least tone down a little. That didn't happen.
Instead, I had to read 5 or 6 paragraphs detailing the framed runes that we all know are over the fireplace. It was so bad that during the final battle, we had to pause and reflect on Gin's previous fight with Alexis James. We are reminded how she would flay people alive with her magic, how she tortured and killed Fletcher, and how she attempted to do the same to Gin. I failed to see how a flashback was appropriate or even relevant at that moment. I honestly felt like 20% of this book was original material. It was very disappointing.
I wish I could have enjoyed this more because I've really loved the other books in this series. Now all I can do is wait for Spider's Revenge.
April 25, 2011
Favorite Quote: “Who the hell are you?�
I gave him a cold, hard smile. “The bitch who’s here to kill you.�
The Elemental Assassin series hooked me with the first sentence in the first book, Spider’s Bite:
My name is Gin, and I kill people.
And I am happy to say, now that we are on to book four, this series is only getting better in my opinion. Much of its appeal is the heroine Gin. I’ve gone on about her in previous reviews but I just can’t help myself. The combination of Gin being a calm, patient, cold-blooded killer paired with her other personality who puts her family first and cooks baked beans at the Pork Pit provides such a contrast. Jennifer Estep never holds back either and I think this is key. Gin kills people. Lots of people. She is an extremely feared assassin. But at the same time, she has a big heart and we watch as Gin struggles to live a life that is not totally devoted to killing. But Mab Monroe, who destroyed her birth family long ago, is still out there trying to destroy Gin and killing her is still on top of Gin’s agenda. But Gin is not alone. Now she has her lover Owen Grayson and her biological sister Bria in her life, She is not necessarily a warm, fuzzy person, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t value her family or those that she loves above all else. And she struggles to show them how much they mean to her.
In Tangled Threads Gin is matched against another assassin, Elektra. Who as you can guess is very skilled at using electricity to off her opponents. Elektra is hired by Mab Monroe to take out the notorious Spider. However, Mab has no idea Gin is the Spider, which I think is a nice twist in this series. Elektra is a really evil bitch and I love her character. She kills with glee and has a nasty attitude. She really makes a worthy opponent for Gin and their conflict throughout the book is well done. I do think it is about time Gin and Mab have the big showdown, but I really have enjoyed the build up in this series to the looming battle.
I think I’ve finally forgiven Jennifer Estep for having Gin’s previous lover, Donovan Caine, sail into the sunset because I am in love with Owen!! Owen accepts Gin for all that she is. He knows all her secrets. He knows she kills, she is on a mission to destroy Mab and he is okay with that. Now the question is, is Gin okay with that? Can Gin accept someone in her life who only wants the best for her?
I stared into his violet eyes, looking once again for any hint, any sign, that he’d finally wised up. That Owen had finally realized how cold, violent, twisted, and emotionally distant I really was, and that he was finally ready to pretend he’d never met me. But there was nothing in his gaze but warm acceptance � and stubborn determination to watch out for me, even if I didn’t want him to. Even if I didn’t think I deserved it. Even if I didn’t think I was actually worthy of someone’s time, consideration, attention and sympathy.
The tangled threads around my heart tightened a little more.
Their relationship is really building up nicely. If I had any complaint in the book it is that I would like to get to know Owen just a bit more. I feel like I really don’t know all that much about him.
Finn, Gin’s foster brother and one of my favorite supporting characters has lots of page time in this book. We see more of Bria, Gin’s sister and of course the dwarf sisters Jo-Jo and Sophia.
I love how this series is building up to the big show-down with Mab Monroe and I can’t wait to see where Gin and company go from here.
Rating: B+
I gave him a cold, hard smile. “The bitch who’s here to kill you.�
The Elemental Assassin series hooked me with the first sentence in the first book, Spider’s Bite:
My name is Gin, and I kill people.
And I am happy to say, now that we are on to book four, this series is only getting better in my opinion. Much of its appeal is the heroine Gin. I’ve gone on about her in previous reviews but I just can’t help myself. The combination of Gin being a calm, patient, cold-blooded killer paired with her other personality who puts her family first and cooks baked beans at the Pork Pit provides such a contrast. Jennifer Estep never holds back either and I think this is key. Gin kills people. Lots of people. She is an extremely feared assassin. But at the same time, she has a big heart and we watch as Gin struggles to live a life that is not totally devoted to killing. But Mab Monroe, who destroyed her birth family long ago, is still out there trying to destroy Gin and killing her is still on top of Gin’s agenda. But Gin is not alone. Now she has her lover Owen Grayson and her biological sister Bria in her life, She is not necessarily a warm, fuzzy person, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t value her family or those that she loves above all else. And she struggles to show them how much they mean to her.
In Tangled Threads Gin is matched against another assassin, Elektra. Who as you can guess is very skilled at using electricity to off her opponents. Elektra is hired by Mab Monroe to take out the notorious Spider. However, Mab has no idea Gin is the Spider, which I think is a nice twist in this series. Elektra is a really evil bitch and I love her character. She kills with glee and has a nasty attitude. She really makes a worthy opponent for Gin and their conflict throughout the book is well done. I do think it is about time Gin and Mab have the big showdown, but I really have enjoyed the build up in this series to the looming battle.
I think I’ve finally forgiven Jennifer Estep for having Gin’s previous lover, Donovan Caine, sail into the sunset because I am in love with Owen!! Owen accepts Gin for all that she is. He knows all her secrets. He knows she kills, she is on a mission to destroy Mab and he is okay with that. Now the question is, is Gin okay with that? Can Gin accept someone in her life who only wants the best for her?
I stared into his violet eyes, looking once again for any hint, any sign, that he’d finally wised up. That Owen had finally realized how cold, violent, twisted, and emotionally distant I really was, and that he was finally ready to pretend he’d never met me. But there was nothing in his gaze but warm acceptance � and stubborn determination to watch out for me, even if I didn’t want him to. Even if I didn’t think I deserved it. Even if I didn’t think I was actually worthy of someone’s time, consideration, attention and sympathy.
The tangled threads around my heart tightened a little more.
Their relationship is really building up nicely. If I had any complaint in the book it is that I would like to get to know Owen just a bit more. I feel like I really don’t know all that much about him.
Finn, Gin’s foster brother and one of my favorite supporting characters has lots of page time in this book. We see more of Bria, Gin’s sister and of course the dwarf sisters Jo-Jo and Sophia.
I love how this series is building up to the big show-down with Mab Monroe and I can’t wait to see where Gin and company go from here.
Rating: B+
May 11, 2017
The casting:
PS!!! My main cast for Gin, in my head, is really Jennifer Garner/Elektra. Reason for using Crystal Reed/Allison Argent is because of all the awesome gifs of her that fits perfect for these series :P
I like this series. I've read 4 books in 4 days, so that should say something itself. The storyline is good, and it keeps the reader interested.
I'm looking forward to the development for the series, and i simply can't wait to see what's in the future for Gin. I really hope she doesn't quit being an assassin though, because she's awesome at it and i love a badass woman :)
Though i have my annoys, really annoys with this book.. which is the constant repeating that is going on.. I can't get it out of my head and for me, it's ruins the series for me.
Another thing that annoys me is that i feel disconnected to the characters, specially the men in her life. We get to know Finn a bit more personal then all the other males, but other than that.. nothing.
I don't miss Detective Donovan Caine, in fact, i don't think of him at all, because we didn't get to know him for real. I feel that Jennifer should focus on that more, to make things a bit more personal with people, so we can feel something for them.. if you know what i mean?
I like the characters so far, specially Owen. He seems like a real gentleman and he doesn't judge or criticize Gin. I like that he's there for her and show her that he really cares for her.
Only thing i wish was that he was more of an alpha male. He's a powerful man, yet we haven't seen any of it.. I hope that in the next books we get to see more of that and more of him personally.
Other than that, the series good enough for me to continue the journey :D
Rate: 2.5/3 stars.
PS!!! My main cast for Gin, in my head, is really Jennifer Garner/Elektra. Reason for using Crystal Reed/Allison Argent is because of all the awesome gifs of her that fits perfect for these series :P
I like this series. I've read 4 books in 4 days, so that should say something itself. The storyline is good, and it keeps the reader interested.
“Keep the change, Gin," McCallister said in a smarmy, mocking voice. "Consider it an early Christmas present."
"Aw," I drawled. "A whopping thirteen cents. You're too kind, Jonah. Why, you'd put Ebezener Scrooge to shame with your bighearted generosity.�
I'm looking forward to the development for the series, and i simply can't wait to see what's in the future for Gin. I really hope she doesn't quit being an assassin though, because she's awesome at it and i love a badass woman :)
Though i have my annoys, really annoys with this book.. which is the constant repeating that is going on.. I can't get it out of my head and for me, it's ruins the series for me.
Another thing that annoys me is that i feel disconnected to the characters, specially the men in her life. We get to know Finn a bit more personal then all the other males, but other than that.. nothing.
“Quite a crowd tonight, Gin. Usually, it's just you and Finn."
I shrugged. "What can I say? I seem to attract minions wherever I go these days. Kind of like the Pied Piper."
Behind me, Finn huffed out his displeasure. "Minion? I am most certainly not a mere minion. Head minion, perhaps. At the very least.�
I don't miss Detective Donovan Caine, in fact, i don't think of him at all, because we didn't get to know him for real. I feel that Jennifer should focus on that more, to make things a bit more personal with people, so we can feel something for them.. if you know what i mean?
I like the characters so far, specially Owen. He seems like a real gentleman and he doesn't judge or criticize Gin. I like that he's there for her and show her that he really cares for her. “This is the first time I've dated an assassin. I don't want to piss her off.�
Only thing i wish was that he was more of an alpha male. He's a powerful man, yet we haven't seen any of it.. I hope that in the next books we get to see more of that and more of him personally.
Other than that, the series good enough for me to continue the journey :D
Rate: 2.5/3 stars.
November 2, 2012
Having come off her last battle, Gin is determined to make things harder for her nemesis, Mab Monroe. Turns out Mab is wanting the same thing and has hired another assassin, Elektra, to kill Gin...and the Spider. Unfortunately, innocent people are getting stuck in the middle and Gin's "family" has gotten larger causing her to take things slower.
I really enjoyed how things are developing in Gin's life even though they are getting much more complicated. With each battle, Gin learns more and more about her powers and I find that so interesting. I also like how her "family" is growing and how she is having to deal with all her feelings.
I am definitely liking Owen much better than Donovan but does he like Gin too much?? I can't help but have a little bit of doubt there regarding Owen. I really hope he doesn't have an ulterior motive...and I wonder if Donovan is going to show back up! In the meantime, I did enjoy their steamy scenes and what a great Christmas present!
Things with Bria have certainly progressed and I really liked all their interactions. It's more interesting when things are not all smooth sailing and I can't wait to see where they will go from here. The parts with Finn and Bria are hilarious and I hope we get more of them!
There will some shocking information that turned up in regards to Fletcher. I'm sure that Gin will delve into this even more and I'm nervous about who else might be involved.
Elektra was a great baddie and she had some impressive skill. I liked how JE had her related to "The Viper" and learning that family history. Makes me curious as to if there are any more family members that will show up?
I would've liked more interaction between Mab and The Spider but then again, it was nice not really having Mab at the fore front of every book. Jonah's time is coming though (I hope) and I can't wait to see what Gin is up against next.
Favorite quotes:
� “Oh, baby. You have no idea what I’d do to get through those layers and down to the good stuff.�
I really enjoyed how things are developing in Gin's life even though they are getting much more complicated. With each battle, Gin learns more and more about her powers and I find that so interesting. I also like how her "family" is growing and how she is having to deal with all her feelings.
I am definitely liking Owen much better than Donovan but does he like Gin too much?? I can't help but have a little bit of doubt there regarding Owen. I really hope he doesn't have an ulterior motive...and I wonder if Donovan is going to show back up! In the meantime, I did enjoy their steamy scenes and what a great Christmas present!
Things with Bria have certainly progressed and I really liked all their interactions. It's more interesting when things are not all smooth sailing and I can't wait to see where they will go from here. The parts with Finn and Bria are hilarious and I hope we get more of them!
There will some shocking information that turned up in regards to Fletcher. I'm sure that Gin will delve into this even more and I'm nervous about who else might be involved.
Elektra was a great baddie and she had some impressive skill. I liked how JE had her related to "The Viper" and learning that family history. Makes me curious as to if there are any more family members that will show up?
I would've liked more interaction between Mab and The Spider but then again, it was nice not really having Mab at the fore front of every book. Jonah's time is coming though (I hope) and I can't wait to see what Gin is up against next.
Favorite quotes:
� “Oh, baby. You have no idea what I’d do to get through those layers and down to the good stuff.�
March 8, 2019
I loved the story but not the book. I am sick and tired of the repetitions. This actual story probably takes about 54% everything else is the author telling us everything that had happened in the previous book. I mentioned it in my previous books but this one takes the cake . I really hope I don't have to deal with this all through this series.
April 29, 2011
4/5 (B)
Overall, as a fan of this series, I was satisfied after reading Tangled Threads. I think that Ms Estep did a good job and delivered a solid installment. However, as a reader, the more I thought about this book, the more I had issues with it ^_^; I'm not going to go too much into the details of the storylines or the characters because I've gone through it in the previous reviews :)
As a fan, I was satisfied because I enjoyed the story that was told; it was interesting, fast-paced, action-packed and a nice continuation from the previous events. I enjoyed the characters and their dilemmas, especially Gin. There's a lot going on in her life and she also has to worry about Bria and her new relationship with Owen. All in all, I liked how everything was handled and resolved. I liked seeing the familiar faces - Gin is having quite the entourage for an assassin :) I also liked that some light was shed on some issues - that's always nice. Also, I thought that Bria's reaction to Gin's identity was quite realistic and obviously, she'll need time to come to terms with it which I guess is what we'll see in the next book.
My favorite part of the book was without doubts the growing relationship between Gin and Owen. It bothers me a little that Gin is still so uncertain of Owen - especially since the man has been such a rock, but then it's only been a few weeks they've been together. I really like Owen and he's really what Gin needs. He doesn't condemn her and understand the path she's taken. I'm actually surprised though, I thought Owen was a bit darker and grimmer than he really is. In any case, it's a joy to see their relationship deepens.
All in all, I think that if you've enjoyed the series so far, you'll like Tangled Threads :) Ms Estep takes what has worked in the first three books and continues with it in Tangled Threads which explains why this is a good installment... At the same time, it's essentially where my first issue lies. There's nothing new to Tangled Threads. In the beginning, I felt that the writing style and the character were refreshing and original; however, after three books, they've become familiar. This is not a bad thing, familiar is good, but it also means that you have to compensate somewhere else and this is usually done through details or storylines. Unfortunately, there hasn't been many twists and surprises in the Elemental Assassin series. It seems to me, when Ms Estep sat down and thought of this series, she wrote down an outline of the main events that would happen and she's been sticking to that outline a bit too closely and too much to the point. And because of this, the series has become a tad too predictable. I mean, at the end of Web of Lies, when the new detective is mentioned, I knew right away it would be Bria. From the events in Venom, I knew that Bria would learn of Gin's identities in Tangled Threads... In the next book, I know that there will be a big show-down with Gin whose magic has grown so much and Mab. What I'm saying is that there's not enough subtlety in Ms Esptep's writing. If it's in the story, then there's a reason to it and from there, you can extrapolate and there's not a thousand possibilities ^_^; While it doesn't stop me from enjoying this series and Tangled Threads, I think it is holding back the storyline from being an absolute wowzer.
The other issue I had with Tangled Threads and this one with a lesser impact was the amount of recaps the book had. Gosh. I understand the need to remind the readers and inform the newcomers what has happened, but in this case, it was too much and simply bogged down the storyline and probably made the book thicker by 1/3 ^_^; Usually, main lines are fine but in Tangled Threads' case? It was every single event of importance from Spider's Bite to Venom: Fletcher's death, Gin's past, all the secondary characters, Donovan Caine, the previous books storylines, Gin's magic and so on. Really too much! Obviously, Tangled Threads cannot be read as a stand-alone and I'm sorry but for those who have short memory, well too bad for you!
I enjoyed Tangled Threads, there's no question about it; it was definitively a solid installment. Unfortunately, there are issues that cannot be overlooked and need to be rectified if the 5th and final book is going to be a wowzer.
Overall, as a fan of this series, I was satisfied after reading Tangled Threads. I think that Ms Estep did a good job and delivered a solid installment. However, as a reader, the more I thought about this book, the more I had issues with it ^_^; I'm not going to go too much into the details of the storylines or the characters because I've gone through it in the previous reviews :)
As a fan, I was satisfied because I enjoyed the story that was told; it was interesting, fast-paced, action-packed and a nice continuation from the previous events. I enjoyed the characters and their dilemmas, especially Gin. There's a lot going on in her life and she also has to worry about Bria and her new relationship with Owen. All in all, I liked how everything was handled and resolved. I liked seeing the familiar faces - Gin is having quite the entourage for an assassin :) I also liked that some light was shed on some issues - that's always nice. Also, I thought that Bria's reaction to Gin's identity was quite realistic and obviously, she'll need time to come to terms with it which I guess is what we'll see in the next book.
My favorite part of the book was without doubts the growing relationship between Gin and Owen. It bothers me a little that Gin is still so uncertain of Owen - especially since the man has been such a rock, but then it's only been a few weeks they've been together. I really like Owen and he's really what Gin needs. He doesn't condemn her and understand the path she's taken. I'm actually surprised though, I thought Owen was a bit darker and grimmer than he really is. In any case, it's a joy to see their relationship deepens.
All in all, I think that if you've enjoyed the series so far, you'll like Tangled Threads :) Ms Estep takes what has worked in the first three books and continues with it in Tangled Threads which explains why this is a good installment... At the same time, it's essentially where my first issue lies. There's nothing new to Tangled Threads. In the beginning, I felt that the writing style and the character were refreshing and original; however, after three books, they've become familiar. This is not a bad thing, familiar is good, but it also means that you have to compensate somewhere else and this is usually done through details or storylines. Unfortunately, there hasn't been many twists and surprises in the Elemental Assassin series. It seems to me, when Ms Estep sat down and thought of this series, she wrote down an outline of the main events that would happen and she's been sticking to that outline a bit too closely and too much to the point. And because of this, the series has become a tad too predictable. I mean, at the end of Web of Lies, when the new detective is mentioned, I knew right away it would be Bria. From the events in Venom, I knew that Bria would learn of Gin's identities in Tangled Threads... In the next book, I know that there will be a big show-down with Gin whose magic has grown so much and Mab. What I'm saying is that there's not enough subtlety in Ms Esptep's writing. If it's in the story, then there's a reason to it and from there, you can extrapolate and there's not a thousand possibilities ^_^; While it doesn't stop me from enjoying this series and Tangled Threads, I think it is holding back the storyline from being an absolute wowzer.
The other issue I had with Tangled Threads and this one with a lesser impact was the amount of recaps the book had. Gosh. I understand the need to remind the readers and inform the newcomers what has happened, but in this case, it was too much and simply bogged down the storyline and probably made the book thicker by 1/3 ^_^; Usually, main lines are fine but in Tangled Threads' case? It was every single event of importance from Spider's Bite to Venom: Fletcher's death, Gin's past, all the secondary characters, Donovan Caine, the previous books storylines, Gin's magic and so on. Really too much! Obviously, Tangled Threads cannot be read as a stand-alone and I'm sorry but for those who have short memory, well too bad for you!
I enjoyed Tangled Threads, there's no question about it; it was definitively a solid installment. Unfortunately, there are issues that cannot be overlooked and need to be rectified if the 5th and final book is going to be a wowzer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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