If you recall, I really enjoyed Kelley Armstrong's Omens, the first book in her Cainsville Series. I finally got around to listening to the latest two books, Visions and Deceptions over the holiday break. I'm sticking with my earlier description of this series as "paranormal light." Yes, there are some otherworldly creatures (like Fae and goblins) and, yes, some people have special abilities (to see omens, for example), but the story is more about solving a mystery, the power (or not) of myths and fate, and learning the truth behind a decidedly weird town.The main characters are Olivia Taylor-Jones, adopted socialite; Gabriel Walsh, her friend, lawyer, and boss; and Ricky Gallagher, her MBA-earning biker boyfriend. Their complex relationship underlies the books and is tied into the overall plot. Don't groan, though, this is not a YA love triangle.
Visions and Deceptions offer plenty of action (shootings, stalkings), a good creep factor (abandoned psych hospital, dead bodies, mysterious town), hot sex, and well-developed characters. The multi-layered mysteries involve Fae, serial ritualistic murders, and ancient rivalries. I had a couple moments of wanting to shout, "Don't go in there, you idiot!" but overall, I thought the story was strong and the paranormal elements held my attention. Although I guessed where some plot lines were headed, I was surprised by others. The ending of Deceptions was satisfying, but keeps the door open for more Cainsville books.
The audiobooks (Penguin Audio: 15 hr, 2 min; 14 hr, 43 min) are read by Carine Montbertrand and Mozhan Marno, who alternate chapters, depending on the narrative's perspective. I'm not convinced that two narrators were needed, and I'm not in love with their performances. Why I opted to listen to all three books is a mystery in itself. If there are more Cainsville books, I think I'll switch to print.
Recommended to those who like a little paranormal mixed with their mystery and anyone who wants to give Armstrong a try. Note, however, you need to read the books in order. For more on the narrators and the setup of the series, check out my review of Omens.
Published by Dutton
Visions: published 2014, ISBN-13: 9780525953050
Deception: published 2015, ISBN-13: 9780525953067
Source: Review (print & audio) (see review policy)
Copyright © cbl for Beth Fish Reads, all rights reserved (see review policy)
As you know, I love Kelley Armstrong. There's just something about her books, and especially about the way she portrays relationships. I always go for her new books!
ReplyDeleteI do need a new audio book but don't know that paranormal even in its lighter version would work for me.
ReplyDeleteI won Deceptions but need to get my hands on Omens andVisions. I haven't had much luck at the library so it sounds like I just need to buy them. This is a series I'm really excited about reading. I love a little supernatural mixed in with my mystery!
ReplyDeletei am impatiently waiting book #4
ReplyDeleteI have Omens on my Kindle. Have read other books by this author and really liked them. I might think about audio for them. I do like the idea that these are not so much about the paranormal (even though I've enjoyed her YA books). And since I already have Omens, it can fit in my 'read my own shelves' quest. Yay!
ReplyDeleteI really liked book 1... Now to get to book 2 and 3 myself! I cancelled audible with my ankle injury because I listen to audiobooks on the library and it just wasn't happening! Maybe in the future. :)
ReplyDelete