Series: Jane Yellowrock #8
Format Read: paperback
Source: the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Release Date: October 7, 2014
Buying Links: Amazon* | Book Depository* | Barnes & Noble |
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Blurb from goodreads:
Jane Yellowrock is a vampire killer for hire—but other creatures of the night still need to watch their backs....
When the Master of the city of New Orleans asks Jane to improve security for a future visit from a delegation of European vampires, she names an exorbitant price—and Leo is willing to pay. That’s because the European vamps want Leo’s territory, and he knows that he needs Jane to prevent a total bloodbath. Leo, however, doesn’t mention how this new job will change Jane’s life or the danger it will bring her and her team.
Jane has more to worry about than some greedy vampires. There’s a vicious creature stalking the streets of New Orleans, and its agenda seems to be ripping Leo and her to pieces. Now Jane just has to figure out how to kill something she can’t even see….
Bea's Thoughts:
I was not a fan of Bruiser when I first started this series; I thought he was too arrogant and presumptuous. But I've grown to like him as the series has gone and now I really like him. He just might be the perfect man for Jane - he understands exactly what sorts of gifts to give her, is patient with her, thinks she's beautiful, and doesn't think she needs to change. He's practically perfect. But, this isn't a romance and their relationship is but one part of the story.
There are lots of changes in this story, people (of all varieties) changing status, dying or almost dying, new supernatural beings, and Jane and Beast becoming more accomplished in their skills. Jane and Beast worked together quite smoothly. The politics were complicated as ever and a lot of time is spent at vamp headquarters or with vamps. Eli and Alex are back but Molly and family are absent as is Rick and detective Jodi makes several nominal appearances. It's really Jane's show this time around.
My attention wandered at times, it didn't hold me as strongly as some of the other books but the further in I got, the more engaged I became. I have mixed feelings about the new beings as now the series is wandering into sci fi territory but I did like how Hunter tied it into mythology. I am also hesitant about the powers that Jane/Beast keep acquiring. I don't want to see Jane become all-powerful. Though, the price she pays for her ability should keep that from happening.
"Broken Soul" was another solid entry in the Jane Yellowrock series. It moves the story arc forward, gives us growth and development, story, action, and romance.
Jax's Thoughts:
I've always liked the Jane/Beast pairing, though I have missed a book or two at some point and a few of the developments still have me confused. Not too much, but if you haven't read the rest of the series, I'd highly recommend not jumping in at this point. It's an excellent series, start at the beginning. You won't regret it.
That being said, I'm very glad I didn't miss this one. So much going on, and my favorite change is Bruiser! Not only is he man enough to use the word 'woo,' he is man enough to do it well! Tailored to Jane and with welcome understanding of Beast as well. I love Jane's discomfort as she comes to terms with her settling into home and being a 'girl.' I'm also quite happy with how slowly she's regaining memories, that she doesn't have instant access to what Beast knows. Like Bea, the extra powers could be problematic for me over time, but they come with a price that seems to balance things out well for now.
It did feel like the majority of the cast has been changed at this point. Many of the "faces" I'm used to at this point were missing, and may have contributed to my disorientation during parts of the book. However, it highlighted that Jane's life is changing, which is not entirely a bad thing. Not only does it give Jane room to grow, it allows the storyline to not get stagnant.
I'm trying to find the best way to discuss the next thread without giving too much away, so be warned. This may be a bit spoilerish. I'll try to not give too much away.
There is already a great deal of mystical mystery to Jane's life and now there is this...extra dimension added to the story. On the one hand, it ties in well to Jane's struggle to understand her own abilities, and on the other it can very easily push things into the realm of ridiculous. Thankfully, this is a long running series, and I think Hunter is skilled enough to not rush things, and to find a balance on that thin line.
All in all, I still say this is one of the better series out there, and Broken Soul has me motivated to find the books I missed as well as hope the next book is out soon.
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