Broken Soul by Faith Hunter
Series: Jane Yellowrock #8
Published by Roc
Published on: October 7 2014
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 352
Format: ARC
Source: Publisher
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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….
And I’m in a book funk again.
For me, that’s the mark of a truly great series—every time you venture forth into its world, ready for a new adventure with well-loved characters, the inevitable end hangs like a cloud . . .
You start the book like it’s water and you’re dying of thirst, but the further along you get, you begin to feel taunted . . . by the growing percentage of completion, or the diminishing number of pages . . . and then it’s over . . . until next time.
*gnashes teeth*
Yeah. You know what I’m talking about.
Such is my relationship with Jane Yellowrock . . .
Early in the series, a certain magical artifact began to complicate things for Jane. Since it’s first appearance, the blood diamond has changed hands several times, but even hidden away in a safety deposit box, there’s always someone (or something) who knows about it, and wants to get their hands on it.
Dangerous someones (or somethings). Remorseless and determined someones (or somethings).
It’s a problem.
So it’s not a surprise when Jane gets a call from a much abused (sounding) Reach, warning her that a couple of vamps found him, tortured him for information about her and Leo (that he gave up), and oh, by the way, they were probably already in New Orleans, b/c all of this took place a WEEK ago, but he couldn’t call before now (b/c torture), that she assumed it (once again) had something to do with the blood diamond.
I’m not saying that it did, or it didn’t. I’m just saying it would probably be a good idea to go ahead and destroy the blasted thing, which has (supposedly) been the plan all along.
And if it can’t be destroyed, then she should take a boat into the middle of the ocean, turn herself in a bird, fly as far as she can and still make the return trip, and drop it.
Yes, I’ve given it some thought . . .
Much to my disappointment, the European Council of Mithrin vampires don’t make an appearance in this book, Hunter is saving that for Dark Heir, but never fear—there is PLENTY going on in Broken Soul to give fellow Jane fans their fix. Just b/c the Council fangheads aren’t stateside just yet, doesn’t mean there aren’t any European vamps in town, but I kind of felt like the villain in this installment took a backseat to other important plot developments. I wouldn’t go so far as to say that this book felt like filler until the now thoroughly hyped-up Council vampires show up, it just didn’t feel as personal as I’m used to with the Big Bads in this series.
However, looking back, I think it was necessary—those previously mentioned developments feel mighty important to the future of Jane, and they more than made up for any perceived lack on the villain front. Without getting spoilery, some of those developments include:
- Fun, new tricks with Jane and Beast
- Something seriously freaky in the bowels of the vamp HQ (that I totally guessed, btw. Oh yeaaaaah).
Okay, so that’s all I can give you without spoilers.
On the character development front, Eli and Kid (aka Alex) continue to be a fun and colorful presence in Jane’s life. One of my favorite Eli quotes from the uncorrected proof is:
“You hurt her and I’ll skin you alive and feed your carcass to the wild boars in the swamps. You copy?”
Hmm . . . I wonder to whom he’s speaking . . . and whom he’s talking about . . . Could Eli be talking to the man who brought Jane flowers, and when she didn’t know what to do with them, told her gently:
“They go in a vase. On the nighstand by your bed. Or on the kitchen table. Or on the coffee table in the living room. They go where you can see them most often, and, seeing them, remember that you deserve flowers.”
I just can’t say . . . *twirls mustache*
I can and will say that it is worth the wait. View Spoiler »
Broken Soul is just the latest fantastic installment in Faith Hunter’s Jane Yellowrock series, which continues to be one of my personal favorites in Urban Fantasy. Old questions are answered, new questions are raised, and though far (FAR *crosses fingers*) from being finished, lovers-of-Jane finally, FINALLY get some satisfaction in the a-male-worthy-of-the-heroine department.
For those of you who have been holding out for just this moment, your wait is over. For those of you waiting for other reasons, tell me why, and I will disabuse you of those notions. For those of you who have somehow made it this far without even hearing about Jane, that’s no longer an excuse. You’ve got until April to get ready for the European Mithrin invasion. The clock is ticking . . . *tick tock*
Other books in the Jane Yellowrock series:
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My name is Jessica and I live in Chattanooga, Tennessee. I’m trying my hand at writing, but mostly I read. My favorite genres are Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Science Fiction, Urban Fantasy, and the YA versions of those genres, but if there is a book of a different color getting lots of buzz, I’ll read it too, just to be informed. If I’m not reading or writing, I’m probably on Goodreads or Pinterest or baking blueberry pies because I love them.
It’s great to see you back Jessica. I missed you. 🙂
I haven’t started this series yet. It is on my list to try sometime, I’ve heard so many great things about it. One day.
Melanie Simmons recently posted…The Beautiful Ashes Audiobook by Jeaniene Frost (Review)
Hopefully one day soon! This is my #2 UF series. I probably already said that. Oh well 😉
And I’m glad to be back, I missed you too!
Ugh. That sucks, isn’t it? I have a couple of authors in my pocket that incites just the very reaction. I’m either inspired to read or inspired to just say, eff it. Lol. Glad you enjoyed this one!
Joy (Joyousreads) recently posted…Hoarders, Books Edition: Episode 122
LOL, I know what you mean. Sometimes I’ll put off reading the new installments until I have several that I can read back-to-back, but I can’t do that with this series—I love it too much 😉
Gaaaah, not another series that it’s already in its 8th? installment!! Dammit Jessica!! Now I’m super curious about this series even if I have super behind on it and *looks at TBR pile* TOO MANY BOOKS, TOO LITTLE TIME!!
Great review!!
Pili recently posted…Lailah by Nikki Kelly Book Blitz: Interview & Giveaway!!
Thanks, Pili! And yeah, another series with LOTS of installments. But it’s SO GOOD 😉
*chants* one day…one day..one day. Gah. Sharon from I smell Sheep has told me about this one. So many books already. Goodness.
anna (herding cats & burning soup) recently posted…Happiness Challenge–Day 4
Yeah, but they’re fairly quick reads, and totally worth it (IM humble O 😉 ).
Awesome that is still going strong
blodeuedd recently posted…Carole Reviews: Bitter Greens – Kate Forsyth
Seriously. Rare is the series that is still awesome by the time book 8 comes along . . .
I pre-ordered the audio last night. Can’t wait to download it on release morning.
Jennifer recently posted…Between the Sheets by Molly O’Keefe
This series is a release day read for me too (except for when I’m lucky enough to get an ARC 😉 ).
I feel like I need to read this series because you love it so much Jessica!
kindlemom1 recently posted…The TBR Tag
I’d go with that feeling! Not that I’m biased or anything . . .
I need a reading buddy to read this, that’s the only way I was able to catch up with Elemental Assassin and as this series has a long stack of installments already, it’s so easy for me to get lazy and it would be a mistake to miss out on this one! Yup long sentence there, caffeinated!
Braine Talk Supe recently posted…Steampunk Sundays: Curtsies & Conspiracies by Gail Carriger
Well, I’ll be sure to check in with you the next time I reread the series. It won’t be anytime soon, but if you still haven’t found someone (whenever that is), I’m your girl 😉
wow it’s already book 8? I need to read more in the series, I only tried the first book, I’m sooooo behind!
YEP. Book 8 just came out, and I’m already antsy for book 9. They’re pretty quick reads, so it wouldn’t take too long to catch up 😉 Just sayin’ . . .
Your reviews are always entertaining, Jessica. 🙂 I have yet to meet Jane Yellowrock. *ducks head to avoid flying objects* But I understand the error of my ways now. And I will do my best to begin this series as soon as humanly (or at least Brandee-ily) possible.
Bookworm Brandee recently posted…**Bought, Borrowed, & Bagged ~ #37**
Thanks, Brandee! And I will hold you to that 😉
you are making me want to go back reading this series.. i have read until book 5 and i need to check if i own book 6 and or 7 anyway i’m behind^^ Reach did gave up….from where i have read that doesn’t surprise me what surprise me is that he waited to be tortured before telling them what they wanted…. ) and yes why keep such an arttefact^^ rest assured we area lot to wonder at that^^
miki recently posted…Divine Vices (Divine Vices 1) by Melissa Parkin
I can’t remember if it was book 5 or book 6 that was rough for me, but it was one of them. I started getting really annoyed with Rick, and I just wanted Jane to pick someone. If that was your problem too, then lemme just say—it gets better 😉
Glad to hear the next installment of one of your loved UF series went really well! It sounds like you were slightly disappointed without the European Council, but there was enough here to keep you entertained. Lovely review Jessica!
Jeann recently posted…Indulgence Insider #10: Movie Week
Thanks, Jeann! I was a bit disappointed that the council didn’t show up in this installment, but now I have something to look forward to next time 😉
I haven’t picked up this series yet. Maybe it’s time to check it out!!
Stéphanie recently posted…The Mesmerized by Rhiannon Frater
If you like UF with kick-ass heroines, then it’s definitely time to check Jane out 😉
I haven’t read many Urban Fantasy books just yet but I’ve seen a few around that look interesting.
Mary Kirkland recently posted…Interview With A Rat Enthusiast: What Do I Do When My Rat Has Diabetes?
UF is my go-to genre. I LOVE it.
I had the first book on my summer list that I never got it, so now it’s on my fall list. Seeing this one and all the previous books in the series just reminds me how far behind I am 🙁
Mogsy recently posted…YA Weekend: Daughter of Smoke & Bone by Laini Taylor
Actually looked into starting this series. Library had zero copies. Go figure. I have access to a larger library, have to check it out some day with a small list.
Nathan ( recently posted…Rebuilding the Blog: My Plugin List
Hmmm . . . does your library let you request books, or transfer books in from other libraries? Or you could just stick to the bigger library plan 😉
Even though this series is already up to book 8, it wouldn’t be nearly as hard to get caught up as other series (like The Hollows). They’re quick, entertaining reads, and I think I’ve read all but one of them (Raven Cursed is a bit longer than the rest, but not by much) in an afternoon.
You are so dramatic, Jessica, lol. Kidding, I know EXACTLY what you mean! 😉 And yes, I need to get my butt in gear and read these.
Christy recently posted…Ruining Mr. Perfect by Marie Harte
*snorts* It’s okay . . . I AM dramatic, LOL. But only when I really, really love a series 😉
How have I not heard of this series before??? “One of your personal favorite UF series”?!? Seriously, that’s a lot of books for me to have missed. I’m baffled and slightly embarrassed. But guess what! I’m somewhat caught up on my reading list and I’ve been wanting to find a new UF series to fall in love with so Book 1 will be read soon. Great review as always!
Ginny recently posted…Book Review and Giveaway: Crane by Stacy Rourke
OMG, you seriously haven’t heard of this series?? I have no words . . . well, except that I LOVE this series, and I hope you really do check it out. Thanks, Ginny!
Oh i am loving the sound of this heroine Jessica..but eight books in..sheesh. Ok, I added them to my list for the simple fact that they leave you spent and used by the end of each book..LOL
kimbacaffeinate recently posted…Broken by Laura Wright
Like I need a cigarette, LOL. But seriously, if you do decide to check this series out, there may be 8 books out already, but they’re relatively quick reads. I think I read most of them in an afternoon 😉
This series sounds great! I think I have the first few books so I’ll have to dig them out, I really need more reading hours in the day!;-) Jane sounds great.
A great review Jessica!
Sharon – Obsession with Books recently posted…Review: A Thousand Pieces of You by Claudia Gray
Oh yeah, especially if you already have the first few books, you should definitely check this series out. Thanks, Sharon!
Haven’t read this series, but it does sound wonderful with great character growth
It really is, Brandi. I hope you check it out sometime.
REACH! I so much know whats going to go down with him. And a whopping 4 stars coming from you is high praise so I better get to it. I finally got caught up by reading Black Arts a few weeks ago.
Tabitha (Not Yet Read) recently posted…Review: Black Arts by Faith Hunter
I read Black Arts right before this one too, and it was a sucker punch. It probably wasn’t as bad for you though, b/c I’m pretty sure you already hated Rick . . . I was still hoping he’d pull his head out of his butt, but NOPE. Oh well . . . 😉
OMG please tell me that the flowers are NOT from Rick. Even though I’ve only read the first book I still feel justified in saying that he’s a greasy gross guy. Say that 10 times fast! Clearly I need to power through a couple of these so that I know what the hell y’all are talking about with these blood diamond shenanigans cause I don’t have a clue. I’m so happy to hear that Jane and Best are still going strong this far into the series!!
Danya recently posted…Review: Discount Armageddon by Seanan McGuire
I’m not telling, I’m not telling! YES, you do need to power through, b/c IMO this series only gets better. And Jane and Beast are friggin’ awesome 😉
I had forgotten about Jane Yellowrock. I have to take this up again, so many new books in this series since last time 😀 I just have to finish up with the Blood Destiny books first. I remember I really liked how the shifting process actually was time consuming, and potentially dangerous if she shifted to something smaller.
Kim recently posted…Review: Log Horizon
YES. That’s one of my favorite things about this series—the hard and fast rules that apply to all the supes. I hate it when an author uses the supernatural has a blanket excuse to do whatever they want.
Huh, I’ve never even heard of this series! Why do you always do this to me, Jessica? This sounds like fun, i was just saying on Carmel’s Jess Haines review that I still enjoy the vampire hunter thing. Off to add book one to Mt. TBR.
Wendy Darling recently posted…This Shattered World: blog tour sign-up
HA! Clearly, I still enjoy the vampire hunter thing too 😉 And yes, this series really is a lot of fun.
Wait, did you review a previous book in the series earlier this year? Because I added book one back in the spring! Hmmmmmm.
Wendy Darling recently posted…This Shattered World: blog tour sign-up
Yes, I did. I was trying to get ALL the previous installments reviewed before this one came out, but that didn’t happen, LOL.