by Kalayna Price
October 5th 2010 by Roc
325 pages
Grave witch Alex Craft can speak to the dead, but that doesn’t mean she likes what they have to say.
As a private investigator and consultant for the police, Alex Craft has seen a lot of dark magic. But even though she’s on good terms with Death himself—who happens to look fantastic in a pair of jeans—nothing has prepared her for her latest case. Alex is investigating a high profile murder when she’s attacked by the ‘shade’ she’s raising, which should be impossible. To top off her day, someone makes a serious attempt on her life, but Death saves her. Guess he likes having her around...
To solve this case Alex will have to team up with tough homicide detective Falin Andrews. Falin seems to be hiding something—though it’s certainly not his dislike of Alex—but Alex knows she needs his help to navigate the tangled webs of mortal and paranormal politics, and to track down a killer wielding a magic so malevolent, it may cost Alex her life...and her soul.
As a private investigator and consultant for the police, Alex Craft has seen a lot of dark magic. But even though she’s on good terms with Death himself—who happens to look fantastic in a pair of jeans—nothing has prepared her for her latest case. Alex is investigating a high profile murder when she’s attacked by the ‘shade’ she’s raising, which should be impossible. To top off her day, someone makes a serious attempt on her life, but Death saves her. Guess he likes having her around...
To solve this case Alex will have to team up with tough homicide detective Falin Andrews. Falin seems to be hiding something—though it’s certainly not his dislike of Alex—but Alex knows she needs his help to navigate the tangled webs of mortal and paranormal politics, and to track down a killer wielding a magic so malevolent, it may cost Alex her life...and her soul.
One of my favorite storylines. A smart quirky female main character that finds herself in a bit of trouble and along comes hunky, frustrating alpha male inserting himself to help her situation. I love magic! (Insert self as the main character Alex and you have most women's fantasy). Smart, resourceful, self sufficient but it sure is nice to have the stalking of a powerful man (or two) to keep your ass alive!
The crime and mystery part of the story was great! Well thought out plot and investigation keeps you intrigued from the moment it is introduced. Kudos to the author for combining the "fantasy" with a great story! Wouldn't it be great if murders could be solved by talking to the "shades" (memories) of the deceased? Especially since they can't lie?! What is not to like about having a little magic in our world?
As I was reading this first book of her series I realized that a few years back I had already read one of the other books in this series and hadn't connected the dots. I remembered really enjoying the read but sometimes (as most reviewers will tell you) you read so many books that you can't always have immediate recall of the stories. We also pick up another book and get lost on the path to follow up issues. Hazards of the obsession of reading.
A great easy flowing read that made me want to pick up her newest installment of Alex, death and detective Falin. If you haven't met Alex, please pick up this book and continue each through her 4th installment that is just being released!
I give this story 4 "shady" sheep!
Jeanie G
About the Author:
USA Today Bestselling author Kalayna Price writes the Alex Craft Novels, a new dark urban fantasy series from Roc, and the Novels of Haven from Bell Bridge Books. Her works have been translated into several languages and are available (or have been contracted for release) in the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, France, Poland, Russia, and Germany. Kalayna draws her ideas from the world around her, her studies into ancient mythologies, and her obsession with classic folklore. Her stories contain not only the mystical elements of fantasy, but also a dash of romance, a bit of gritty horror, some humor, and a large serving of mystery. Kalayna is a member of SFWA and RWA, and an avid hula-hoop dancer who has been known light her hoop on fire.
I've been long awaiting the most recent book in this series to come out. I'm so glad it is finally coming. I love Alex Craft. Great review.
ReplyDeleteMelanie @ Hot Listens & Rabid Reads
Thanks Melanie. I am a real sucker for these types of stories!
DeleteOne of my favorite series! I also have been waiting for the release of Grave Visions. Original and intriguing storyline with great characters. Kalayna writes beautifully which makes for smooth reading. And she makes you adore Death!! :)
ReplyDeleteWell said Dawn! I am going to finish the rest of the series and looking forward to the fourth installment. Thanks for commenting!
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