Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book from the author. This has not influenced my review.*
These books are just so readable. They’re action-packed and perfectly paced, and once I pick one up, I don’t want to put it down until I’ve finished. And even then, I just want more!
Cal was yet again great too. He’s one of my favorite protagonists because he’s so not the stereotypical male lead you often see in urban fantasy. He’s realistic and sarcastic and vulnerable and compassionate and respectful and dealing with PTSD and sometimes overwhelmed but still badass. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him quite so badass though as when he evacuated that building, which is odd considering I’ve seen him take on countless monsters and gods and supernaturals. But this poor guy can’t manage to go even one book without ending up in a hospital.
He’s not the only great character though. I love Cooper and his feistiness. And actually, for someone who’s an archivist and doesn’t even work out in the field, Cooper sure gets in a lot of trouble too. The rest of Cal’s team is also great. I even liked the new character, Lucian, though I can understand why Cal hates him.
Also, I gotta say, I find it really entertaining that the villain who created the wraiths not only stole and reanimated a whole bunch of corpses but then also dressed them up in cloaks and gave them all scythes. That’s commitment. That’s a villain with style.
I also like how the author always keeps the horrible things that happen suitably horrible and serious and full of emotional impact rather than glossing over them. Especially with everything happening in the real world right now, I appreciate that she gave the incidents in the book the weight that they deserved.
The only thing I didn’t like was the one or two sentence chapter openings that referenced something later in the chapter, like Cal had already experienced everything and knew what was going to happen. They were confusing and threw me out of the story, especially since the POV is first person present. But that was a minor thing.
There’s one other thing I want to talk about because I’m excited… but I’ll save that for the next review so that I won’t spoil anything!
Overall, this was another gripping, action-packed book in the series, and I can’t wait to read more about Cal and his team!
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1 and 2 in Clara Coulson's City of Crows Series. Anyone who likes action-packed urban fantasy, supernatural creatures, a hilariously snarky but also realistic and compassionate protag, and touching friendships/team dynamics.
More Books in the Series:
Book Review: Soul Breaker (City of Crows Book 1) by Clara Coulson
Book Review: Shade Chaser (City of Crows Book 2) by Clara Coulson
Book Review: Wraith Hunter (City of Crows Book 3) by Clara Coulson
Book Review: Doom Sayer (City of Crows Book 4) by Clara Coulson
Book Review: Day Killer (City of Crows Book 5) by Clara Coulson
Book Review: Spell Caster (City of Crows Book 6) by Clara Coulson
Book Review: Dawn Slayer (City of Crows Book 7) by Clara Coulson
Book Review: Storm Master (City of Crows Book 8) by Clara Coulson
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I just love books that are readable! This seems like a fun one – and I love the sound of Cal!
-Lauren
I think you would love Cal! He’s also bisexual, so yay for representation!
Okay, I need to read these, especially to meet Cal. Have you read the Iron Druid series by Kevin Hearne? You NEED to if not. You’d love Atticus.
From what I know of your taste, I think you’d love this series! I want to try The Iron Druid series, it’s just too expensive. Maybe at some point in the future!
I love books like that- just compulsively readable. Like what can I procrastinate to free up reading time lol. And the villain definitely has style! “That’s commitment” lol.
Oh and it’s set in Michigan too??!?
Nice cover. Lots of green=win.
He really was a committed villain lol.
Yeah, it’s set in Aurora, Michigan. I don’t know if that’s a real city?
I don’t think it is- if so it would be a small town somewhere in the middle of nowhere, which doesn’t sound like this book. Must be fictional. Bummer… I love it when real places show up!
It doesn’t sound like a small town in the book, so it must be made up. I guess sometimes fictional settings are just easier.
I’m so glad you’re able to race through this series and enjoy all the sequels so much as well! Also, I’m loving the sound of this villain. For some reason it makes me think of Loki. Gotta love a villain with style and who puts effort into his villainous ways.
Right? The villain put so much work into his plan that it seemed like a disservice not to mention it lol.
Compassionate and respectful – you’re right, Cal is 100% an atypical UF protagonist! Haha. It’s been ages since I’ve read a book that featured both werewolves and vampires, but your review is making me super nostalgic for those books. Clearly I need some more UF in my life right now. Maybe I’ll pick up the first City of Crows book! 🙂
Right? A lot of UF protagonists are so rough and surly. I definitely recommend this series if you’re looking for some urban fantasy!
Oooh, I am curious about what you are saving for the next book review! Also you won me over at perfectly paced with this book — if an author can get that right, I’ll be a fan forever!
All of these books have been perfectly paced so far, in my opinion! And you’ll just have to wait until the next review to find out what I’m excited about 😉