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Gunnie Rose #5
All the Dead Shall Weep
Sisters Lizbeth Rose and Felicia as well as brother Eli and Peter, are reunited in Texoma only to break apart before the Wizard’s Ball held in San Diego, which will determine all their fates. Following the murderous events of the Serpent of Heaven, Lizbeth Rose is awaiting the arrival of her sister Felicia and her husband’s younger brother, Peter, in Texoma. Both needed to leave the seat of the Holy Russian Empire in San Diego after Felicia’s burgeoning wizardly power in death magic became the reason for kidnapping and assassination attempts from her mother’s family of high-powered wizards in Mexico. Yet bad news has traveled ahead of them, as Eli is called back to San Diego, taking Peter along with him, splitting them apart in more ways than one as their enemies’ plans for revenge come to fruition.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published September 5, 2023
About the author
Charlaine Harris
291 books36.4k followersCharlaine Harris has been a published novelist for over thirty-five years. A native of the Mississippi Delta, she grew up in the middle of a cotton field. Charlaine lives in Texas now, and all of her children and grandchildren are within easy driving distance.
Though her early output consisted largely of ghost stories, by the time she hit college (Rhodes, in Memphis) Charlaine was writing poetry and plays. After holding down some low-level jobs, her husband Hal gave her the opportunity to stay home and write. The resulting two stand-alones were published by Houghton Mifflin. After a child-producing sabbatical, Charlaine latched on to the trend of series, and soon had her own traditional mystery books about a Georgia librarian, Aurora Teagarden. Her first Teagarden, Real Murders, garnered an Agatha nomination.
Soon Charlaine was looking for another challenge, and the result was the much darker Lily Bard series. The books, set in Shakespeare, Arkansas, feature a heroine who has survived a terrible attack and is learning to live with its consequences.
When Charlaine began to realize that neither of those series was ever going to set the literary world on fire, she regrouped and decided to write the book she’d always wanted to write. Not a traditional mystery, nor yet pure science fiction or romance, Dead Until Dark broke genre boundaries to appeal to a wide audience of people who simply enjoy a good adventure. Each subsequent book about Sookie Stackhouse, telepathic Louisiana barmaid and friend to vampires, werewolves, and various other odd creatures, was very successful in many languages.
The Harper Connelly books were written concurrently with the Sookie novels.
Following the end of Sookie's recorded adventures, Charlaine wrote the "Midnight, Texas" books, which have become a television series, also. The Aurora Teagarden books have been adapted by Hallmark Movie & Mystery.
Charlaine is a member of many professional organizations, an Episcopalian, and currently the lucky houseparent to two rescue dogs. She lives on a cliff overlooking the Brazos River.
Though her early output consisted largely of ghost stories, by the time she hit college (Rhodes, in Memphis) Charlaine was writing poetry and plays. After holding down some low-level jobs, her husband Hal gave her the opportunity to stay home and write. The resulting two stand-alones were published by Houghton Mifflin. After a child-producing sabbatical, Charlaine latched on to the trend of series, and soon had her own traditional mystery books about a Georgia librarian, Aurora Teagarden. Her first Teagarden, Real Murders, garnered an Agatha nomination.
Soon Charlaine was looking for another challenge, and the result was the much darker Lily Bard series. The books, set in Shakespeare, Arkansas, feature a heroine who has survived a terrible attack and is learning to live with its consequences.
When Charlaine began to realize that neither of those series was ever going to set the literary world on fire, she regrouped and decided to write the book she’d always wanted to write. Not a traditional mystery, nor yet pure science fiction or romance, Dead Until Dark broke genre boundaries to appeal to a wide audience of people who simply enjoy a good adventure. Each subsequent book about Sookie Stackhouse, telepathic Louisiana barmaid and friend to vampires, werewolves, and various other odd creatures, was very successful in many languages.
The Harper Connelly books were written concurrently with the Sookie novels.
Following the end of Sookie's recorded adventures, Charlaine wrote the "Midnight, Texas" books, which have become a television series, also. The Aurora Teagarden books have been adapted by Hallmark Movie & Mystery.
Charlaine is a member of many professional organizations, an Episcopalian, and currently the lucky houseparent to two rescue dogs. She lives on a cliff overlooking the Brazos River.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 435 reviews
August 23, 2023
Intrigue, romance, danger, suspense, arranged marriages, and much more contribute to an exciting novel in the fifth book in the Gunnie (Lizbeth) Rose series.
All the Dead Shall Weep
is a mix of fantasy, western, and alternate history and is mainly set in Segundo Mexia in Texoma which used to include Texas and Oklahoma.
Lizbeth Rose Savarova meets her half-sister Felicia Dominguez Karkarova and her husband’s brother Peter Savarova at the train station. This visit is to get Felicia away from San Diego where her magical powers had grown to the point that multiple kidnapping and assassination attempts had occurred. However, Segundo Mexia doesn’t prove to be much safer for Felicia or Lizbeth as Eli (Lizbeth’s husband) and Peter almost immediately leave without an explanation.
Lizbeth is capable, loyal, brave, even-tempered, and a great shot, but is still suffering from a significant loss. Felicia has a gift for languages, has started to show her true age, and has gained confidence in herself and her abilities. Other characters play secondary roles with varying degrees of depth.
Charlaine Harris is one of my favorite authors and she did not let me down with this addition to the series. The characters are compelling, led by strong and capable protagonists. I enjoyed having Lizbeth and Felicia alternate points of view.
There was always something new happening in this story. Danger, action, and heart-wrenching moments are interspersed throughout it. This well-crafted story hooked me in the beginning and kept me turning the pages as I went on a rollercoaster ride through twists, drama, grief, and intrigue.
Overall, this novel brings thrills, action, family drama, political intrigue, magic, loyalty, romance, communication issues, power and much more making it an engaging and entertaining read. It’s also one that causes the reader to think about life, love, duty, community, trust, and family. The book has a shocking ending that I did not expect. Exceptional characters, intense fight scenes, and family drama made this an entertaining read.
If you like alternate history, action adventure, thrillers and fantasy, then this series is for you. I recommend reading the books in order. The first novel explains the alternative history aspect that is not fully explained in the succeeding novels.
Gallery Books, Gallery / Saga Press and Charlaine Harris provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for September 05, 2023.
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My 4.59 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
Lizbeth Rose Savarova meets her half-sister Felicia Dominguez Karkarova and her husband’s brother Peter Savarova at the train station. This visit is to get Felicia away from San Diego where her magical powers had grown to the point that multiple kidnapping and assassination attempts had occurred. However, Segundo Mexia doesn’t prove to be much safer for Felicia or Lizbeth as Eli (Lizbeth’s husband) and Peter almost immediately leave without an explanation.
Lizbeth is capable, loyal, brave, even-tempered, and a great shot, but is still suffering from a significant loss. Felicia has a gift for languages, has started to show her true age, and has gained confidence in herself and her abilities. Other characters play secondary roles with varying degrees of depth.
Charlaine Harris is one of my favorite authors and she did not let me down with this addition to the series. The characters are compelling, led by strong and capable protagonists. I enjoyed having Lizbeth and Felicia alternate points of view.
There was always something new happening in this story. Danger, action, and heart-wrenching moments are interspersed throughout it. This well-crafted story hooked me in the beginning and kept me turning the pages as I went on a rollercoaster ride through twists, drama, grief, and intrigue.
Overall, this novel brings thrills, action, family drama, political intrigue, magic, loyalty, romance, communication issues, power and much more making it an engaging and entertaining read. It’s also one that causes the reader to think about life, love, duty, community, trust, and family. The book has a shocking ending that I did not expect. Exceptional characters, intense fight scenes, and family drama made this an entertaining read.
If you like alternate history, action adventure, thrillers and fantasy, then this series is for you. I recommend reading the books in order. The first novel explains the alternative history aspect that is not fully explained in the succeeding novels.
Gallery Books, Gallery / Saga Press and Charlaine Harris provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for September 05, 2023.
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My 4.59 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
September 4, 2023
Book five in the Gunnie Rose series and I am loving it!
All the Dead Shall Weep brings Lizbeth, Felicia, Eli and Peter very briefly together again before events take Eli and his brother away. Most of the book centres on Lizbeth and Felicia who have a beautiful sisterly bond and are both very strong, capable women. Felicia's magical skills are just amazing.
This book crosses several genres including western, fantasy, and alternate history. It takes place in an area called Texoma (in another history it would be Texas and Oklahoma). The story is told in the alternate points of view of Lizbeth and Felicia.
My only criticism would be that the method the author uses to remove Eli and Peter from the story is very weak. Eli's character is sadly maligned. I hope Harris will let him show his true colours again in the next book. And speaking of next books - there is a hint at the end of this one that a very infamous, real life character is about to enter the tale.
I highly recommend this series if you like something a little out of the ordinary - but do start at book one.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
All the Dead Shall Weep brings Lizbeth, Felicia, Eli and Peter very briefly together again before events take Eli and his brother away. Most of the book centres on Lizbeth and Felicia who have a beautiful sisterly bond and are both very strong, capable women. Felicia's magical skills are just amazing.
This book crosses several genres including western, fantasy, and alternate history. It takes place in an area called Texoma (in another history it would be Texas and Oklahoma). The story is told in the alternate points of view of Lizbeth and Felicia.
My only criticism would be that the method the author uses to remove Eli and Peter from the story is very weak. Eli's character is sadly maligned. I hope Harris will let him show his true colours again in the next book. And speaking of next books - there is a hint at the end of this one that a very infamous, real life character is about to enter the tale.
I highly recommend this series if you like something a little out of the ordinary - but do start at book one.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 15, 2023
I love this series so much, and this book only strengthened that love. I’m so glad I got an advanced copy of this book I couldn’t wait and had to read it even though it doesn’t come out until September. And I have zero regrets. I liked that this book had both Lizbeth and Felicia and included both of their perspectives. I will have always have a soft spot for Lizbeth but I like Felicia a lot too, and I especially loved to see them together. I will admit Eli frustrated me to no end in this one with his lack of communication, but it worked for the story. Felicia is out of school for the summer and has come to spend it with her half-sister. But there are oddly dressed soldiers in Lizbeth’s town and there is an upcoming ball that has all of the big magic families overly interested in Felicia. The book is great and I pretty much devoured it in one sitting. And now I sadly have more than a year to wait until the next book comes out (or at least I hope so).
September 5, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley and Gallery/Saga Press for gifting me an early copy of this novel. Below is my honest review.
I'm not sure what's up with this one, but it feels... unfinished. It feels like the middle of a larger book, with lots of random action but no real plotline driving the story forward. Honestly, it felt like an episode of a TV show where some of the season-long main storyline is progressed a little bit, but there is no start or finish to a storyline for the specific episode.
In addition to this, there is some conflict between Lizbeth and Eli that makes absolutely no sense. It felt forced and contrived, and I wasn't a fan of it, especially considering it's bashed in your face the whole book.
There's also one part where it's just like "Oh, dead, okay." I was taken aback that it was so nonchalant.
And I wasn't pleased with how the Native American character felt extremely stereotypical and tropy, rather than realistic or respectful.
There were pros to this book though. Lizbeth and Felicia's relationship takes front and center, and they grow closer as sisters. We also get to see more of Lizbeth's mother and stepdad and friends in her hometown. We get to see the extent of Felicia's abilities, and we get to meet quite a few potential suitors for her for the upcoming Wizard Ball, where she might be expected to find a husband. And let's not forget the mention of Agatha Christie, or the name drop at the end that sets up some serious implications for future books.
I still enjoyed the book overall, mostly because it does push the story forward and I have enjoyed the rest of the series, so I'll definitely pick up the next book when it comes out. But I can't recommend this one nearly as much as the earlier ones in the series. It just wasn't as strong.
I'm not sure what's up with this one, but it feels... unfinished. It feels like the middle of a larger book, with lots of random action but no real plotline driving the story forward. Honestly, it felt like an episode of a TV show where some of the season-long main storyline is progressed a little bit, but there is no start or finish to a storyline for the specific episode.
In addition to this, there is some conflict between Lizbeth and Eli that makes absolutely no sense. It felt forced and contrived, and I wasn't a fan of it, especially considering it's bashed in your face the whole book.
There's also one part where it's just like "Oh, dead, okay." I was taken aback that it was so nonchalant.
And I wasn't pleased with how the Native American character felt extremely stereotypical and tropy, rather than realistic or respectful.
There were pros to this book though. Lizbeth and Felicia's relationship takes front and center, and they grow closer as sisters. We also get to see more of Lizbeth's mother and stepdad and friends in her hometown. We get to see the extent of Felicia's abilities, and we get to meet quite a few potential suitors for her for the upcoming Wizard Ball, where she might be expected to find a husband. And let's not forget the mention of Agatha Christie, or the name drop at the end that sets up some serious implications for future books.
I still enjoyed the book overall, mostly because it does push the story forward and I have enjoyed the rest of the series, so I'll definitely pick up the next book when it comes out. But I can't recommend this one nearly as much as the earlier ones in the series. It just wasn't as strong.
September 8, 2023
All The Dead Shall Weep is another strong entry in the Gunnie Rose series. If you like alternate history, especially one with a bunch of magic, this series will appeal to you. It has become one of my favorites.
To really understand what’s going on, it would be best to have read the rest of the series, although the author certainly tries to provide some backstory. This series is set in the 1930s in what used to be the United States. The action in this one takes place in Texoma, basically what used to be Texas and Oklahoma. The main two characters are Lizbeth (known as Gunnie Rose) and her half-sister Felicia. Felicia is a very powerful “grigori” in training. Grigori is what people in the Holy Russian Empire (mostly what used to be California and Oregon), call those with magical powers. Lizbeth’s husband Eli is a grigori and now lives with Lizbeth in her small town in Texoma.
From Charlaine Harris: “sisters Lizbeth Rose and Felicia as well as brothers Eli and Peter, are reunited in Texoma only to break apart before the Wizard’s Ball held in San Diego, which will determine all their fates.”
Eli and Peter are absent for a good portion of the book, and Lizbeth is assailed with doubts about their marriage because of this. I loved the blooming relationship between the sisters (they didn’t know each other when they were youngsters). Felicia is really coming into her powers but she still has trouble controlling her magic sometimes. I loved that different chapters were written from either Lizbeth’s POV or Felicia’s.
There’s a lot of action interspersed throughout the book, and Lizbeth gets plenty of opportunity to use her gun skills. In addition, there’s a lot of rather homey passages, showing how simply she lives (trapping/shooting animals for meat, stewing beans, and so forth), driving home the vast differences between life in Texoma and life in San Diego, where Eli comes from. The book ends before the afore-mentioned Wizard’s Ball, so I am looking forward to book six one of these days!
Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery / Saga for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
To really understand what’s going on, it would be best to have read the rest of the series, although the author certainly tries to provide some backstory. This series is set in the 1930s in what used to be the United States. The action in this one takes place in Texoma, basically what used to be Texas and Oklahoma. The main two characters are Lizbeth (known as Gunnie Rose) and her half-sister Felicia. Felicia is a very powerful “grigori” in training. Grigori is what people in the Holy Russian Empire (mostly what used to be California and Oregon), call those with magical powers. Lizbeth’s husband Eli is a grigori and now lives with Lizbeth in her small town in Texoma.
From Charlaine Harris: “sisters Lizbeth Rose and Felicia as well as brothers Eli and Peter, are reunited in Texoma only to break apart before the Wizard’s Ball held in San Diego, which will determine all their fates.”
Eli and Peter are absent for a good portion of the book, and Lizbeth is assailed with doubts about their marriage because of this. I loved the blooming relationship between the sisters (they didn’t know each other when they were youngsters). Felicia is really coming into her powers but she still has trouble controlling her magic sometimes. I loved that different chapters were written from either Lizbeth’s POV or Felicia’s.
There’s a lot of action interspersed throughout the book, and Lizbeth gets plenty of opportunity to use her gun skills. In addition, there’s a lot of rather homey passages, showing how simply she lives (trapping/shooting animals for meat, stewing beans, and so forth), driving home the vast differences between life in Texoma and life in San Diego, where Eli comes from. The book ends before the afore-mentioned Wizard’s Ball, so I am looking forward to book six one of these days!
Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery / Saga for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
September 9, 2023
Check out this review and more at Disorderly Daydreams blog!
Gunnie Rose #5
Newlyweds Lizbeth and Eli are settling into married life back home in Texoma. When Felicia and Peter come to visit though, life gets quickly shaken up into a fast-paced, heartbreaking mystery that throws Lizbeth's confidence in her marriage into question. As Lizbeth and Felicia try to figure out who is coming after them and why, enemies seem to appear out of the dusty landscape from all directions. In this installment, it's up to the gals to watch out for each other and fight back against those who would dare to cause them harm.
The first four books in this series have been one great book after the next, but by the end of All the Dead Shall Weep, I was left feeling a bit disappointed. I finished this book a couple of days ago but I've waited to write my review so I could better articulate my feelings. I will say up front that this was not a bad book, in fact it was highly engaging and fun to listen to, but my issue with it is the use of some tropes I'm not a big fan of and some odd decisions the author made in regard to established characters.
Spoilers Ahead... Continue at own risk!
.
.
.
.
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I don't usually share so many negative opinions on the books I read, but this one was quite bothersome and I expected more from such a trusted author who happens to be one of my favorites.
Even though I didn't have much to say about the book being good, I still recommend it if you're invested in the series. It has a lot going on and sets up for future books, leaning heavily on Felicia's storyline. I'm going to keep reading the series, but I don't know if I'll reread this one in the future.
Overall, I give it a 3 out of 5.
Gunnie Rose #5
Newlyweds Lizbeth and Eli are settling into married life back home in Texoma. When Felicia and Peter come to visit though, life gets quickly shaken up into a fast-paced, heartbreaking mystery that throws Lizbeth's confidence in her marriage into question. As Lizbeth and Felicia try to figure out who is coming after them and why, enemies seem to appear out of the dusty landscape from all directions. In this installment, it's up to the gals to watch out for each other and fight back against those who would dare to cause them harm.
The first four books in this series have been one great book after the next, but by the end of All the Dead Shall Weep, I was left feeling a bit disappointed. I finished this book a couple of days ago but I've waited to write my review so I could better articulate my feelings. I will say up front that this was not a bad book, in fact it was highly engaging and fun to listen to, but my issue with it is the use of some tropes I'm not a big fan of and some odd decisions the author made in regard to established characters.
Spoilers Ahead... Continue at own risk!
.
.
.
.
.
I don't usually share so many negative opinions on the books I read, but this one was quite bothersome and I expected more from such a trusted author who happens to be one of my favorites.
Even though I didn't have much to say about the book being good, I still recommend it if you're invested in the series. It has a lot going on and sets up for future books, leaning heavily on Felicia's storyline. I'm going to keep reading the series, but I don't know if I'll reread this one in the future.
Overall, I give it a 3 out of 5.
September 5, 2023
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/
I had a great time with this book! Since the previous book in the series was told entirely from Felicia's point of view, I expected that this book would be as well. I was pleasantly surprised to find that this book is told from Lizbeth's point of view in addition to Felicia's. Felicia and Peter travel to Texoma to visit with Lizbeth and Eli only for trouble to come to town almost immediately. Eli and Peter decide to follow the men who shot up their town only to find themselves in deeper trouble.
I found this installment to be rather exciting. Lizbeth is going through some difficult things in this book and my heart hurt for her more than a little bit. All four of these characters find themselves facing dangerous situations and I couldn't wait to see exactly how things would work out for them. They are dealing with changes in their personal life at the same time that they are facing almost impossible odds which only made the situation more difficult. There were a few things that happened that I believe will have a big impact on future books. I do recommend this series to others but I would definitely suggest starting with the first book. I have had a lot of fun getting to know this wonderful group of characters and enjoy the alternative world that this author has created. I cannot wait to see what might happen next!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Gallery Books.
I had a great time with this book! Since the previous book in the series was told entirely from Felicia's point of view, I expected that this book would be as well. I was pleasantly surprised to find that this book is told from Lizbeth's point of view in addition to Felicia's. Felicia and Peter travel to Texoma to visit with Lizbeth and Eli only for trouble to come to town almost immediately. Eli and Peter decide to follow the men who shot up their town only to find themselves in deeper trouble.
I found this installment to be rather exciting. Lizbeth is going through some difficult things in this book and my heart hurt for her more than a little bit. All four of these characters find themselves facing dangerous situations and I couldn't wait to see exactly how things would work out for them. They are dealing with changes in their personal life at the same time that they are facing almost impossible odds which only made the situation more difficult. There were a few things that happened that I believe will have a big impact on future books. I do recommend this series to others but I would definitely suggest starting with the first book. I have had a lot of fun getting to know this wonderful group of characters and enjoy the alternative world that this author has created. I cannot wait to see what might happen next!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Gallery Books.
September 6, 2023
It's more like a novella
I love the Gunnie Rose series - and for me, this book was a "let's move the plot along" book. For $15, save your money and get it at the library. It is a $5 ride and when I finished, I felt cheated.
I love the Gunnie Rose series - and for me, this book was a "let's move the plot along" book. For $15, save your money and get it at the library. It is a $5 ride and when I finished, I felt cheated.
September 22, 2023
I am loving this fantasy/Western series! Great read with a very interesting world the author has built. Very recommended
January 7, 2024
Another great book by Charlaine Harris. This novel was told from two perspectives, Lizzie and Felicia. Things are not completely right with Lizzie and Eli’s marriage. Felicia and Peter come to visit and trouble begins almost immediately. Lots of action and a super quick read!
August 7, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up.
All the Dead Shall Weep is the 5th book in the Gunnie Rose series, and since it continues the stories of Lizbeth and Felicia, the previous books should be read first. That said, it’s been several months since I read the previous books, and I didn’t have much trouble following what was going on since the author gave little hints and reminders of things that had happened previously.
In general, I’ve really enjoyed reading this series, but this book was probably my least favorite. It doesn’t mean it was a bad book, it just didn’t seem to have the adventure and excitement that the previous books had. There was very much an “air of sadness” throughout the book- right from the start we learn that Lizbeth recently miscarried a baby and Eli has been distant, then Eli (and his brother Peter) are gone for most of the book. With the love interests gone, there isn’t much of any romance in this book. There was a little bit of adventure, but most of the story took place in Lizbeth’s hometown of Nueva Mexia. Honestly, a lot of the book felt like we were waiting around to see if Eli would come back and wondering what was going on with a mysterious militia. There’s more excitement in the end, but honestly this whole book feels like it’s leading up to bigger things that haven’t happened yet. And I just don’t feel like there was a lot of character development over the course of the story, though there is growth in the relationship between the sisters. I enjoyed the book well enough since I like the characters and world that was built from the previous books. But I’m hoping there will be a book #6 that feels more like the previous books and dives into some of the things that weren’t wrapped up in this book.
All the Dead Shall Weep is the 5th book in the Gunnie Rose series, and since it continues the stories of Lizbeth and Felicia, the previous books should be read first. That said, it’s been several months since I read the previous books, and I didn’t have much trouble following what was going on since the author gave little hints and reminders of things that had happened previously.
In general, I’ve really enjoyed reading this series, but this book was probably my least favorite. It doesn’t mean it was a bad book, it just didn’t seem to have the adventure and excitement that the previous books had. There was very much an “air of sadness” throughout the book- right from the start we learn that Lizbeth recently miscarried a baby and Eli has been distant, then Eli (and his brother Peter) are gone for most of the book. With the love interests gone, there isn’t much of any romance in this book. There was a little bit of adventure, but most of the story took place in Lizbeth’s hometown of Nueva Mexia. Honestly, a lot of the book felt like we were waiting around to see if Eli would come back and wondering what was going on with a mysterious militia. There’s more excitement in the end, but honestly this whole book feels like it’s leading up to bigger things that haven’t happened yet. And I just don’t feel like there was a lot of character development over the course of the story, though there is growth in the relationship between the sisters. I enjoyed the book well enough since I like the characters and world that was built from the previous books. But I’m hoping there will be a book #6 that feels more like the previous books and dives into some of the things that weren’t wrapped up in this book.
March 2, 2024
I’ll always read Charlaine Harris - her style, description of this world, always amaze me! This is a good continuation of Lizbeth’s story. With the addition of her sister. I missed Eli being absent for most of the story. Still quite entertaining and I’m excited to learn what happens next! 😉
November 28, 2023
This is another incredible book in the Gunnie Rose series. The action never stops! I loved the sister relationship between Lizbeth and Felicia. The anticipation of the Wizard’s Ball has me looking forward to the next book.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own
March 30, 2024
A full five stars for being a comfort read. Am I biased? Probably. Is it weird that this western, outlaw, magical series has become a comfort (or easy break) read for me? Maybe. But if you appreciate the way Charlaine Harris develops her characters, and makes the readers love them, then perhaps you get what I mean.
This is book five of the ‘Gunnie Rose’ series. You could start here, but I wouldn’t, especially because the first book is solid and sets the tone for the rest to come.
Just like when I read the Sookie series 20 years ago (gosh am I getting old!!); I’ve become attached to these books and even if the premise is silly, the plot a bit jolting (yes I will concur it was a bit odd the way things just suddenly ‘happened’ in this one), or the story seemingly unplanned, I’ll keep on coming back. Because Harris gives us love, hope, crushing loss, and violent encounters; what more can you ask for? ;)
Besides the next book is going to feature (I hope and assume) a debutante’s ball for grigori (wizards). Thus I have to assume it will be wonderfully pretty and (because you can’t have a Lizbeth or Felicia story without it) a bloody mess. :)
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
This is book five of the ‘Gunnie Rose’ series. You could start here, but I wouldn’t, especially because the first book is solid and sets the tone for the rest to come.
Just like when I read the Sookie series 20 years ago (gosh am I getting old!!); I’ve become attached to these books and even if the premise is silly, the plot a bit jolting (yes I will concur it was a bit odd the way things just suddenly ‘happened’ in this one), or the story seemingly unplanned, I’ll keep on coming back. Because Harris gives us love, hope, crushing loss, and violent encounters; what more can you ask for? ;)
Besides the next book is going to feature (I hope and assume) a debutante’s ball for grigori (wizards). Thus I have to assume it will be wonderfully pretty and (because you can’t have a Lizbeth or Felicia story without it) a bloody mess. :)
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
December 17, 2024
Best book of the series so far, rip my heart out Ms. Charlane again.
August 26, 2023
Another fun book in the series! This is such a unique series and really entertaining. The start of the show is Lizbeth. She's a very young, independent woman who has a very dangerous job as a gunnie. She's hired out for odd jobs protecting what or who needs protecting in their transport. Now think back into the old western days. There are cars, but rare and expensive. Most transport is by horse and buggy. But this old western world has magic. It truly is one of the most uniquest series I've read and the biggest draw for me is Lisbeth. I am such a fan of girl power, so when I find a series where the main hero is the woman, I'm all in. What I like even more is when these women are good people with good morals, who are loyal and brave, and just kicks butt. That's what you get with Lizbeth. I'm truly looking forward to more in the series.
November 8, 2024
I love the world Harris has created in her Gunnie Rose series. Both the worldbuilding and dialog, especially between sisters Lizbeth and Felicia, is great. But...this one feels incomplete? Lacking? Underdeveloped? Something not right. I understand this is a bridge book between books 4 and 6, meant to fill a gap between more involved books. (This is not a standalone.) Because the characters and plot lack development, maybe 50 or 100 more pages would have helped, I was ambivalent at the ending. For instance, the death of a major character is treated with the same emotion and less page time than Felicia turning down a potential suitor. A major, emotional opening is resolved with what fees like a shoulder shrug at the end. I'll read the 6th book when it is published, because I want to know how the story ends. I wish I'd waited until it was published before reading this one.
September 22, 2023
Although I'm a Charlaine Harris fan, I was a little disappointed in this book. It's obviously setting things up for the next book, which I get, but it felt rushed and brushed over some fairly serious situations with the main characters. Also, who ever edited, didn't do a very good job. There were several mistakes and missed punctuation that had me re-reading paragraphs just to follow the story. I will read the next book, because I like Lizbeth and find the setting interesting, but I can't give this one more than 2 stars.
November 6, 2023
I have loved this series, and this latest did not disappoint. It’s a unique blend of fantasy, alternate history and mixed genres. But I adore Lizbeth Rose! She is such a strong and steady young woman, with a sense of right and a hidden tenderness. This book lets us get to know her half-sister Felicia better, as well as her relationship with Eli and others. I’m excited to see where this goes forward! Maybe a 4-1/2 rounded up 😊
February 18, 2024
Plenty of action, two powerful sisters
As the story opens, Felicia and Peter arrive on the train from San Diego at the small town in Texoma where Lizbeth and Eli live. In story time, it is not long after the previous book ended, and Lizbeth and Eli have been married less than a year. Intense, violent action explodes immediately, when a small army invades the town.
Eli and Peter are taken off stage soon after the story begins, and the novel becomes a classic, "buddy" type of action-adventure plot, with the two stalwart sisters standing back to back against many, different, extremely dangerous enemies.
Since the events at the close of the previous novel, Felicia has massively expanded her Grigori death magic. She can both kill people with magic and bring people back to life.
Lizbeth and Felicia are a dynamic duo, two kickass, warrior women who love each other and are completely loyal to each other. I absolutely adored that aspect of the book. I was less fond of the unsympathetic manner in which Eli is presented in this book, and what ultimately happened with Peter was a complete disappointment to me personally.
It is clear there is going to be at least one more novel in this series starring Felicia. Though the main events of this novel were satisfactorily resolved (with the potential for the Big Bads behind the central plot to come back again, as needed, to provide more exciting action in future novels), there is a mild cliffhanger/teaser for the wizard ball which is due to occur in the next book.
As the story opens, Felicia and Peter arrive on the train from San Diego at the small town in Texoma where Lizbeth and Eli live. In story time, it is not long after the previous book ended, and Lizbeth and Eli have been married less than a year. Intense, violent action explodes immediately, when a small army invades the town.
Eli and Peter are taken off stage soon after the story begins, and the novel becomes a classic, "buddy" type of action-adventure plot, with the two stalwart sisters standing back to back against many, different, extremely dangerous enemies.
Since the events at the close of the previous novel, Felicia has massively expanded her Grigori death magic. She can both kill people with magic and bring people back to life.
Lizbeth and Felicia are a dynamic duo, two kickass, warrior women who love each other and are completely loyal to each other. I absolutely adored that aspect of the book. I was less fond of the unsympathetic manner in which Eli is presented in this book, and what ultimately happened with Peter was a complete disappointment to me personally.
It is clear there is going to be at least one more novel in this series starring Felicia. Though the main events of this novel were satisfactorily resolved (with the potential for the Big Bads behind the central plot to come back again, as needed, to provide more exciting action in future novels), there is a mild cliffhanger/teaser for the wizard ball which is due to occur in the next book.
August 23, 2023
One of the reasons I like Charlaine Harris’s books because they pull me in and i find it hard to put it down and go to sleep or work. The pther reason is that I fall in love with the characters. Lizbeth and Eli and Felicia and Peter are great and fun.
The story is easy to follow as usual, funny and has many twists.
I can’t wait for the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy.
The story is easy to follow as usual, funny and has many twists.
I can’t wait for the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy.
September 5, 2023
All The Dead Shall Weep
This is book 5 of Charlaine Harris's Gunnie Rose series.
I have been reading Harris' books for decades. Netgalley kindly provided me with an ARC for review. Usually, when I finish a book, I can write a review fairly quickly. After finishing All the Dead Shall Weep, I was left thinking: "what was that? What do I say?" I decided to put it aside, reread it, and go from there.
The book easily withstood a second reading within weeks of the first. In other words, it is an interesting enjoyable read. Unlike the earlier books, this one really was "an instalment". The reading experience was very much "This is happening, and then suddenly this, and then suddenly this...What is Going On!?"
Unlike the earlier books, events occur around Lisbeth's settlement, so we see more interactions with her family and the people around her. We also enjoy her and Felicia getting to know each other, and learning how to work with each other. The story is told from Lisbeth and Felicia's points of view, which I really enjoyed.
The blurb makes it clear that many of the goings on are in the lead-up to the Wizard's Ball. Hopefully, that happens in the next book. If there are more "lead-up" books, I will be Very Annoyed.
The first few books in this series were structured around Lisbeth having a task, what happens during , and then what happens after. The Serpent In Heaven is about Felicia and her life at school in San Diego. This book can, I suppose, be seen more as a continuation of the "Felicia's life" structure.
Of course, I will pounce on the next book emitting loud cries of pleasure. In fact, I expect before reading that one, I will reread this one for the third time with great enjoyment.
This is book 5 of Charlaine Harris's Gunnie Rose series.
I have been reading Harris' books for decades. Netgalley kindly provided me with an ARC for review. Usually, when I finish a book, I can write a review fairly quickly. After finishing All the Dead Shall Weep, I was left thinking: "what was that? What do I say?" I decided to put it aside, reread it, and go from there.
The book easily withstood a second reading within weeks of the first. In other words, it is an interesting enjoyable read. Unlike the earlier books, this one really was "an instalment". The reading experience was very much "This is happening, and then suddenly this, and then suddenly this...What is Going On!?"
Unlike the earlier books, events occur around Lisbeth's settlement, so we see more interactions with her family and the people around her. We also enjoy her and Felicia getting to know each other, and learning how to work with each other. The story is told from Lisbeth and Felicia's points of view, which I really enjoyed.
The blurb makes it clear that many of the goings on are in the lead-up to the Wizard's Ball. Hopefully, that happens in the next book. If there are more "lead-up" books, I will be Very Annoyed.
The first few books in this series were structured around Lisbeth having a task, what happens during , and then what happens after. The Serpent In Heaven is about Felicia and her life at school in San Diego. This book can, I suppose, be seen more as a continuation of the "Felicia's life" structure.
Of course, I will pounce on the next book emitting loud cries of pleasure. In fact, I expect before reading that one, I will reread this one for the third time with great enjoyment.
August 1, 2023
Fabulous four and a half as this series continues to shock and delight . We catch up with Lizbeth as her half sister Felicia comes to stay but almost immediately their quiet town is attacked meaning Eli and his brother go missing but there's no way Lizbeth won't track her man down !
This began as an almost straight forward hunt to stop the bad guys but very quickly escalated into something completely different as Eli literally tells Lizbeth he's leaving her and understandably the bottom falls out of her world. Could he have said more ? Absolutely. Should they actually talk about feelings ? Well come on misunderstandings are the bane of our lives and this couple are equally to blame.
Ok nuff said about that and the author agrees because step forward magical suitors for Felicia to distract the reader and the sisters too ! Oh my this was fabulous, funny at times but tragic too and I very much look forward to the Magical Ball and whatever shenanigans the sisters get up to there !
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
This began as an almost straight forward hunt to stop the bad guys but very quickly escalated into something completely different as Eli literally tells Lizbeth he's leaving her and understandably the bottom falls out of her world. Could he have said more ? Absolutely. Should they actually talk about feelings ? Well come on misunderstandings are the bane of our lives and this couple are equally to blame.
Ok nuff said about that and the author agrees because step forward magical suitors for Felicia to distract the reader and the sisters too ! Oh my this was fabulous, funny at times but tragic too and I very much look forward to the Magical Ball and whatever shenanigans the sisters get up to there !
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
July 26, 2023
3.5 stars
In this installment of the series, we get the treat of sisters Lizbeth and Felicia spending time together and further developing their relationship, with chapters alternating between the two points of view.
Felicia arrives in Texoma with Eli’s brother Peter to spend the summer with Lizbeth. Shortly after their arrival, a mysterious group of soldiers attacks the town, spurring the group to defend them. After Eli and Peter suddenly leave town for uncertain reasons, Lizbeth and Felicia are left alone with too many questions, both personal and about the attack. They have little time for reflection, though, as a series of visitors and new attackers, from grigories to mercenaries, keep the sisters busy.
Despite the fast pace of the story, there is not as strong a plotline in this as in previous books in the series. But the tale gives us strong insights into Lizbeth’s and Felicia’s characters and delivers a strong share of heartache, of tragedy, and a hint of what’s to come in future stories. I devoured the book and was left feeling sorry when it was finished.
That’s always a strong recommendation when you’re left wanting more.
Thank you to the publisher for this ARC.
In this installment of the series, we get the treat of sisters Lizbeth and Felicia spending time together and further developing their relationship, with chapters alternating between the two points of view.
Felicia arrives in Texoma with Eli’s brother Peter to spend the summer with Lizbeth. Shortly after their arrival, a mysterious group of soldiers attacks the town, spurring the group to defend them. After Eli and Peter suddenly leave town for uncertain reasons, Lizbeth and Felicia are left alone with too many questions, both personal and about the attack. They have little time for reflection, though, as a series of visitors and new attackers, from grigories to mercenaries, keep the sisters busy.
Despite the fast pace of the story, there is not as strong a plotline in this as in previous books in the series. But the tale gives us strong insights into Lizbeth’s and Felicia’s characters and delivers a strong share of heartache, of tragedy, and a hint of what’s to come in future stories. I devoured the book and was left feeling sorry when it was finished.
That’s always a strong recommendation when you’re left wanting more.
Thank you to the publisher for this ARC.
April 15, 2024
Another poor installment.
This felt as though it started 100 pages in. We are in the middle of a martial squabble that makes no sense because we have no background, then a telegram comes and the husband is like, “actually I’m leaving and taking my brother who just arrived with your sister but your sister is staying.”
Huh?? And it’s nothing but shenanigans from there with this miraculous courting situation for the sister involving all of these magical people suddenly arriving just for the sake of creating 4 pages of drama.
Then the ending… good God. A fairly main character has died and no one seemed to actually care, the explanation for the husband leaving suddenly with no notice was like “oh, someone offered me a job for a lot of money that’s all” as if it makes ANY SENSE at all that a husband wouldn’t just tell his wife he was taking a job… what the fuck? And THEN, the last sentence is like “have you heard about this crazy man in Germany” and the husband goes “his name is Hitler.”
WHAT??? Hitler is in this universe???? What is happening???
Oh, and the whole damn book wasn’t even 250 pages long. Yet somewhere there was room for multiple “quicker than you can say Jack Robinson” lines.
This felt as though it started 100 pages in. We are in the middle of a martial squabble that makes no sense because we have no background, then a telegram comes and the husband is like, “actually I’m leaving and taking my brother who just arrived with your sister but your sister is staying.”
Huh?? And it’s nothing but shenanigans from there with this miraculous courting situation for the sister involving all of these magical people suddenly arriving just for the sake of creating 4 pages of drama.
Then the ending… good God. A fairly main character has died and no one seemed to actually care, the explanation for the husband leaving suddenly with no notice was like “oh, someone offered me a job for a lot of money that’s all” as if it makes ANY SENSE at all that a husband wouldn’t just tell his wife he was taking a job… what the fuck? And THEN, the last sentence is like “have you heard about this crazy man in Germany” and the husband goes “his name is Hitler.”
WHAT??? Hitler is in this universe???? What is happening???
Oh, and the whole damn book wasn’t even 250 pages long. Yet somewhere there was room for multiple “quicker than you can say Jack Robinson” lines.
September 8, 2023
Waste of time, money & brain matter
I almost don’t believe it was written by Charlene Harris, I’ve read the entire series and the only thing I can think about why anyone wrote an publish this drivel is because they needed money.
Do not waste your time and money, wait for the next book.
I almost don’t believe it was written by Charlene Harris, I’ve read the entire series and the only thing I can think about why anyone wrote an publish this drivel is because they needed money.
Do not waste your time and money, wait for the next book.
September 11, 2023
Mercy! The writing here has to be the worst ever. Why I keep reading this series is the only mystery in them. Romance? No. Character development? No. Consistency in the characters, the plot or even the “magic”? No. What a sucker I am that I maintain a shred of optimism that they will improve. Sheesh. Shame on me.
June 11, 2024
4.5 stars
This book dealt with some heavy stuff. It was great seeing the sisters back together again, but I'm still giving Eli's motivation a little side eye. Not that I think he is lying, but I need a better explanation. Also, I didn't see the Peter thing coming. Excited for the next one.
This book dealt with some heavy stuff. It was great seeing the sisters back together again, but I'm still giving Eli's motivation a little side eye. Not that I think he is lying, but I need a better explanation. Also, I didn't see the Peter thing coming. Excited for the next one.
June 9, 2024
This one kept me on the edge of my seat! I was so eager to find out the outcome that I read it in a day. It was so good! So happy to see the sisters back together. Though a lot of action and many things happen in this book including arranged marriages. So much to unpack but I’m very eager for the upcoming release now.
December 9, 2024
I am getting intrigued with the world. Looking forward to the next one!
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