Pale Demon

I really looked forward to this book and read it in one sitting. I loved the character development, and I hate to say this, but especially AL. I was wondering if anyone else felt that Rachel does belong in the ever after with Al. You can see it develop slowly from about book seven I think that AL likes Rachel more than he meant to and this one I think goes that one little step further. I actually like trent in this one and pierce is just a pain in the proverbial. I am glad that Rachel and Ivy have finally sorted out there stuff and it leaves the next book more open to rachel finally committing to someone. The question will be who. I am really looking forward to the next book (don't make us wait to long Kim) and I bet that braclet wont stay on long....
Happy reading everyone.....it was worth the wait

Spoilers Spoilers Spoilers Spoilers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Please don't read this if you haven't read the book.
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Ive read over and over how Trent and Rachel's relationship/characters have grown in PD. All I can say is HUH? Until the last 10 pages Trent was exactly the same spoiled elf he has always been who has now become a mass murderer when he released the day walker. I love Rachel no matter what but she has continued (like every other previous book) to deny who she really is and the power she has. The ending of this book in regards to her power and decisions was ridiculous and yet somehow the immature Rachel we all know.

Things I loved about this book:

Rachel's time in the ever-after. Seriously brilliant.

Big Al!! He has a vulnerable side in this book that really showed. Now dont get me wrong. I dont want to see Rachel/Al together as he has proven himself to be an evil try to be rapist, but him longing after Rachel makes me happy.

Jenks ..enough said. Pretty much the best supporting character in urban fiction/fantasy today.

Newt. She was actually likable and almost poignant. Shocked.

Ivy. Now this amazed me. Ive never been an Ivy fan as I thought they could have ended her attraction with Rachel about 4 books ago. She didnt really contribute much to the road trip pages (which was kind of the whole idea) but she had a few pages written for her in San Fran that were pretty much the best Kim Harrison has ever written.

Blis .. I don't know why but he makes me smile.

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Things I hated:

Pierce .. please don't bring him back for anything but his own funeral.

Trent .. I know many of you are trying to push this as a relationship but let me just add my opinion. He is the same selfish elf he has always been. He released the day walker (who killed thousands), he cursed Rachel to the ever-after with the hopes she could put it back on the day walker (which she couldn't as she didn't have a collective), he left her to battle by herself in San Fran as he ran back to Cinci with his daughter. The only reason she is still alive is because Blis grabbed her out of the lines trying to do what Trent told her she could do. Yeah he put her soul back into her but it never would have come to that if Trent want such a back stabbing wuss.

The shunning trial was amazingly weak. I cant remember who but someone brought up a good point that the trial and Trent's elf quest should have been separate books.

Finally... totally dismissing the heartfelt talk Rachel and Ivy had and pretty much bringing them back to same old same old by the end of the book.

Love this series and liked this book.

Read it! Read it! Read it!

For some reason she wrote Trent as a week character. I don't find him as a week character. He's a leader of the elf's. Their future is in his hands. Him doing the things he did on this road trip. To draw attention like that knowing they are being followed and monitored.

Kim used to be a wonderful author...then she decided to get political and publicly insult half her readership. If I could get my money back from all her books I previously purchased I would as while I agree with her right to free speech, we also have rights as consumers not to support her or her views.

I read all the 5 star reviews and couldn't wait for my copy to arrive. I must say I can't agree that this is the best book yet. For me, something was just off in Pale Demon. The road trip included a lot of sophomoric action and banter, some of it bordering on the absurd. I would have expected more sophistication from Trent. I did not see the maturation in Rachel that I was expecting. We learn that Rachel remains unable to kill, even if it will potentially save thousands of lives, including her own. Despite this, she totally accepts and discounts that a member of her traveling party is responsible for mass murder in this book. Without spoilers all I can really say about the coven and the trial is 'REALLY?!!!'

I found the ending to be frustrating, confusing and melancholic. Rachel finally accepts who and what she is, encouraging others to proclaim it to the world, only to do a 180 at the end and hide from who she is. She mourns the loss "forever" of this aspect of who she is, when in fact, it appears to be a simple matter to rectify the loss. (I can't say more without a spoiler.)

Having said all that, it did read quickly, I wanted to know what was coming next, and there were some good parts of this book (the ever-after for one). I rushed to finish Lost Truth by this author (aka Dawn Cook) so I could read Pale Demon and I must say the Truth novels were far better. As a side note if you haven't read the 4 Truth novels, you definitely should. They are brilliant, high fantasy with a science background, making them seem probable instead of just possible.

Pale and thin plot....Spoiler!!! We all knew she was a demon "lite", Kill or neutralized the bad guy, bicker with the elf and have a complicated relationship with the vampire that might end at any moment. The end is so lame.... Why didn't he give her the bracelet ages ago? Boring!!! Oh and I the so self absorbed elf can't tell you my oh so important mission but I want you to be my child's godparent. Yeah right.

First, let me just say that I've beein a Kim Harrison fan since the release of Dead Witch Walking. She surrounds herself with mostly (though not always) extremely well drawn characters. I don't think I've ever seen better world building in any UF-land than in her Rachel books.

My problem with the book is that Rachel does not change. She is the exact same screechy, caterwauler she was back in Dead Witch Walking. She's undergone no growth. None. Her experiences do not inform her behavior, they do not inform her decisions. This is probably the reason why by page 25, I'm pretty solid on where I'm going to be on page 100. I need that character to grow. Why is everyone around her able to do so as she sits there, set in granite? It makes no sense and it's ruining the series.

So much was irritating. Stupid secrets that didn't need to be kept and responsible for massive death, characters I hate taking up more and more page time (Yeah, Pierce, I'm looking at you.), and Rachel being, well, Rachel. As great as it was seeing more Al and spending time in groovy ever-after demon bars (seriously cool stuff) and watching Rachel test the waters of a demon career (also very cool), it can't make up for the fact that the part of Rachel is being played Rachel.

I think maybe it's time for me to give up this particular franchise. I haven't *loved* a Hollow's book since The Outlaw Demon Wails, and with every book since, I just find myself getting annoyed.

Pale Demon, book number 9 in Kim Harrison’s Hollows series. This takes place about two months after the events of book 8, black magic sanction, and Rachel must attend the annual witches conference, where she will be receiving that pardon that Oliver promised her in the last book. Trent however doesn’t think so, and requests that Rachel let him tag along on her trip to the West Coast, as he has some business to attend to as well. Trent believes the coven will actually try to kill her en route to the meeting, and that having him along will keep them from doing so. Trent is in a bit of a mess as well, as Rachel witnesses when their meeting is interrupted by a couple of elf assassins sent by the Withons. The Withon’s have something Trent wants, and he doesn’t have very long to get it.

So, that is how the road trip begins, Rachel, Jenks and Trent, in her mom’s buick on the way to the west coast. They meet Ivy along the way, in St. Louis. A city that Rachel decides, she does not like. She discovers the terrifying power of elven magic, and the group leaves wreckage along the way. A terrifying ancient being is released from his cage, after 2000 years. The demons are not thrilled.

Unfortunately for Rachel, getting to San Francisco was only the beginning. Trent must be back in time from his elven quest to testify on her behalf at the meeting. Trent is convinced she will lose, and he has a back up plan for her just in case. Can she trust him?

It’s been hinted at, she’s been accused but…Is Rachel REALLY a demon?

There are some really exciting developments in this novel, mostly in how the characters see and interact with one another. There are of course the hilarious moments, the unexpected (seriously) and the moments that have your heart pounding. I love this series.

For more reviews visit kickassurbanfantasy.ga

Pale Demon was another excellent installment in the Rachel Morgan series. I've really come to enjoy Harrison's blend of witches, warlocks, weres, vampires, pixies, elves, and faeries. She blends the species in together and has such great plots that her books are difficult to put down. I made myself go slowly reading Pale Demon, because like a piece of Godiva chocolate, I wanted to make it last.

My suspicisions regarding Trent's feelings for Rachel have finally been confirmed. I knew it, I knew it! I know he's bad and has done terrible things, but I still like Trent. I think he has much more to him than we know right now, and I think he's going to keep growing on Rachel. Like Steve Urkel used to say to Laura, "I'm wearing you down, baby, I'm wearing you down!"

Jenks and Bis are my favorite characters in the series. I think that they both steal every scene that they are in. Rachel is not one of my favorite heroines, and I'm not sure why. She has not been inherently likeable for me, but her personality and actions have endeared her to me over the span of the series. I definintely liked her more in this book than any of the others.

I have to say that I have long thought that Al secretly likes Rachel, and the events of Pale Demon have only furthered that suspicion. I loved how the book ends, with Rachel making the choice about how to live her life. I've always liked Pierce because I love the way he speaks---I love his phrases, such as "make a die of it"---but I did not like him with Rachel. It was nice to have Rachel alone for this book, as she has kind of gone from man to man throughout the series.

While nine books can sometimes be too long for some series, Kim Harrison's work just keeps getting better, and I hope we get at least three more. According to Harrison's website, she is under contract for twelve to thirteen Morgan books! Sign me up, this is one series that I want to keep going for that long!

Just One Gripe:
I hated the name Ku'Shox. It was difficult to read and say to myself. I stumbled over it just about every time I read it.

The Best Thing About This Book:
I love the cast of characters.

A co-worker suggested this series because I was a BIG fan of J.R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood series After reading the first two books in the Hollows series I just was not feeling it. When I finished "The Good, the Bad, and the Undead",I thought this is too slow before getting interesting ,which was beyond the half way point. I decided to step away from this series. For that reason I started to read synopsis of all the other books in the series. By doing this I did find out what happens to some of the characters and knew the new ones. The book I found most interesting was Pale Demon with the West Coast road trip. I lot of reviewers thought it was funny and a new twist to the Trent/Rachel relationship. I started reading the last 3-4 chapters of this book, as I said the author gets good near the end. I started at the point when she calls out KuSox to fight...well I was hooked. Once I finished those final chapters, you know what I did? Yep that's right, I went to the beginning chapter one. Even though I knew what would happen with her and KuSox my interest was still held through out the adventure. Will I give this series another chance. Yes but not right away

Ok, so i'm doing this review for books 1 to 12
I absolutely love this series, it has everything, just everything, Kim sucks you in and never let go and you don't want to leave this world she created. I love every secondary character, even though they all have murderous tendencies, every single one of them but deep down they all have good in them and Kim shows that to you.
My favorite characters are Jenks, Al, Kisten and Trent and i do hope that Kim does something with Al,it just about broke my heart that he left me *sobs*. I have not reat book 13 but i am going to start as soon as i get it.
I started this series very late in the game but i do not regret it because i got to read all the books one after the other without stopping, so, if you haven't started, do it now, you won't regret it. Rachel is the heorine you want to read, she makes so many mistakes and you want to slap in the face every character but you fall in love with all of them

I have a lot of favorite quotes, but to quote them will be to reveal a lot, however, i do have one that stayed with me
Kisten put an arm around me, soggy clothes and all. "I told you, Rachel," he said in my ear to start a warm spot in me. "I've got your back. Nothing alive will ever hurt you if i have breathe in me. And nothing dead will hurt you if i don't"....
*starts crying*....Kisten!!! Come back to me

I confess, I read books more than once, sometimes twice, but very rarely a third time. However after being introduced to Kim Harrison's "The Hollows" series over Christmas this year, I found myself re-reading each of the eight books in her series three times - each time finding small nuggets of information, character traits, funny quips, and tears on my face. So, along with all her other devoted readers I've been counting the days till 22 February when her next installment - number nine - Pale Demon would be released.

Fans can preview some of the chapters on Harrison's website, but lucky me, I was able to read Pale Demon last week, courtesy of the publisher Harper Collins via a review copy. I wasn't disappointed at all. It was worth the wait, every minute of it. Pre-order it now!

I'm not going to give away any plot twists, because that would just be evil (okay, I'm thinking about it, but trying to be good). Just know that this book will answer some questions, lay some to rest, and raise some more. (Until the 22nd, check out Kim Harrison's website as she provides a sneak peak at some of the chapters online.)

Rachel Morgan the witch, cum demon, cum kick-ass heroine is fabulous in each of the nine installments. What Harrison provides so successfully in this series is the trajectory of growth. When we meet Rache, she's unsure, not aware of herself, yet begins the transformation of self - a heroes journey - that continues in each volume.

By this entry in the series she's gone through heartbreak, passion, hate, despair, and bitter disappointment - but known love, hope, friendship, and trust. Her friends or frenemys- a supernatural team really - Ivy the Vampire, Jenks the Pixie, Al the Demon, Trent the Elf (oops spoiler if you haven't read the first volume, sorry), Bis the Gargoyle, and Pierce, the re-animated ghost - all play a role in Pale Demon as do some nice and naughty witches, a few new and familiar demons, and a new - well that would be a spoiler, just wait and read ...

Harrison as always tweaks at heartstrings while at the same time eliciting out loud laughter as you page through her book. Now, I'm waiting for the next installment to see what transpires. Her ability to fully realize these characters to the point you think they are friends is quite a gift. I and her other readers are very lucky.

If you don't have them already, check out the rest of Harrison's The Hollows series on the store.

Pale Demon (Hollows)

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*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.

Brought to you by OBS reviewer Heidi

*Beware of Spoilers*

pale-demon-the-hollows-kim-harrisonRachel has been shunned by the witch community and now she must travel to San Francisco to the witch meetings to publicly apologize for using black magic to get her shunning revoked. But when the airport won't let her fly she's forced to travel there by car. And, Trent corners her and convinces her to let him travel with her for her own safety and also so he can go to Seattle to fulfill some elf quest (an oh what a quest it is!) he's on. So with a shunned witch, an elf, a pixie, and a living vampire they give a whole new vision of the family road trip!

But when it becomes obvious that the coven isn't going to honor their agreement to revoke Rachel's shunning, will the efforts of Rachel's friends help her or be the final nail in her coffin that sends her back to Alcatraz or worse?

I liked seeing Rachel and Trent working together once again as I have been team Trent for several books now, and have always liked him. Since Kisten's death, I believe that they are meant to be together and the end of this book just solidifies those thoughts for me. Even if Trent's loyalty and motives are brought into question in this installment of the series. And, that kiss? It just left me begging for more!

I never saw Pierce and Rachel as a long-term thing, but I was a bit shocked with just how quickly the relationship fizzled out! But I definitely don't think we've seen the last of him!

I found the road trip to be interesting especially when the group of misfits found themselves in St. Louis. I was raised and currently live in the St. Louis metro area and found the idea of a demon being imprisoned under the arch to be a lot of fun. I also found that Harrison's research was pretty good when she also mentioned other nearby communities (St Clair) and interstates even down to the exit of Memorial Drive.

I really wasn't surprised to see Rachel becoming a demon. I felt the books before this installment where hinting at that outcome with her embracing black magic, being able to be summoned, being Al's student, and lets not forget the scent of burnt amber coming from her and the recent inability to invoke witch spells. Then, the title of this book, Pale Demon, made it pretty obvious to me. I did not expect her to be given a choice from an unexpected source in that regard though. I know the choice she made, but can't help, but think she'll change her mind in the future.

I thought the majority of this book was OK, but the ending is what made me truly enjoy this novel and I'm curious to see how the decisions made and the actions taken in this book will affect the future for the various players in the series.

This review and more at openbooksociety dot com

*contains spoilers if you haven't read the previous books in the series and NO Spoilers for Pale Demon

I literally freaked out when I saw Pale Demon on NetGalley. It felt forever while I waited to see if my request was going to be approved and when it was I squealed like a banshee. I stopped whatever I was doing, read Black Magic Sanction {which I was delaying to read for a while} and dove right into it and I am SO glad I did.

Pale Demon is AMAZING! Not since Kisten's death have I enjoyed a book in this series so much. Yes, I still miss Kisten, but now I can finally see a direction, a path through which Kim Harrison will most definitely drag our dear Rachel. It will be a tortuous one, but I am really looking forward to reading about it.

In Black Magic Sanction Rachel finally caught a break and has a chance of expunging her shunning, all she has to do in go to the witches convention in San Francisco and beg the witches' council... It sounds simple, but it's nothing but, specially when her shunning keeps her from going by plane and Trent Kalamack joins her, Jenks and Ivy on the road trip from hell.

Pale Demon was non-stop action and every page had me craving the next. I loved what Harrison has done with the series, she wasn't afraid to change everything up and I can't wait to see where she takes Rachel next.

I really don't want to spoil anything, but the ending killed me! It's not really a cliffhanger, but it left such an incredible question mark for the series that I felt my heart stop. I feel like Kim Harrison is back and that after the rocky road that this series has been after Kisten's death, she has finally found a new way, one that I can't to follow.

Pale Demon is Urban Fantasy at it's best! If you are a fan of the series, I think you'll LOVE this book and if you have yet to read this series, now is the perfect time to start, you won't regret it!

Originally Posted at Welcome to Larissa's Bookish Life

Plot Summary: Rachel Morgan may have escaped the frying pan, but she's about to face the fire. In a few days she must attend the witches' coven in San Francisco to answer charges of being a black witch who consorts with demons. Rachel was promised a pardon by the coven leaders, but elf tycoon Trent Kalamack knows better, and he promises his support at Rachel's trial if she'll help him travel to the West Coast for a mysterious assignation. Against her better judgment, Rachel agrees, and so begins a car trip with an elf, a witch, a vampire, and a pixie (you didn't think Ivy and Jenks would just stay home, did you?). Along the way they dodge assassins, and a scary-powerful creature that defies all the rules.

(The Hollows Series: Book 9)

I can honestly say that Pale Demon kept me up all night. Fans of Kim Harrison's Hollows series are going to eat this up from the first page to the last because it reads like a Greatest Hits album. All of the tedious, downer, angst-ridden crap that smothered some of the earlier installments is gone, and what's left is so much fun to read that it's going to ruin me for other urban fantasies for a while.

I couldn't have asked for a better setup than seeing Rachel, Trent, Ivy, and Jenks stuffed into a car for a demonic, cross-country road trip. Rachel drives like a maniac, Trent whines like a spoiled brat, Ivy is a barely contained bomb, and Jenks is profane and saucy like always. It's great stuff.

If you're worried that this means there will be no Al action, never fear, we get to see him a lot, and what's more, there are interesting changes in his relationship with Rachel. In fact, we see changes in Rachel's relationship with all the key players, and that's what makes Pale Demon such a pivotal game-changer. This is the point when most long-running series start to feel sloppy and tired, but I've never felt so energized and jazzed about Rachel's wacky life.

WARNING: If you haven't read previous books in the series, you may want to back quickly, not slowly, away from the computer!

Rachel Morgan has a constant inner battle going about whether she is a white witch or a black witch, and if she's a black witch, does that really make her evil? This questioning is brought public now as she stands trial at the annual witches convention for her use of black magic and dealings with demons. Rachel knows that there is no way that the "Coven of Moral and Ethical Standards" will let her fly to meet them across the country in San Francisco, so she and Jenks find themselves with unlikely company on this trip, and the car space keeps getting tighter the closer to their destination they get. With assassins hot on their trail and a demon who walks in daylight attempting to get to Rachel, will they ever make it in time?

This is by far one of my favorites from this series. Unlike some people, I haven't been disappointed with any of the books. Some have made me awfully sad and a bit angry, but what good author doesn't do these things to their readers? Rachel Morgan is one of the best protagonists out there in Urban Fantasy. When people say strong heroine we usually find out that the heroine is a potty mouth who uses her fists first and brains later. This is not Rachel Morgan. She stands up for herself, her friends, and even her enemies. She has shown tremendous growth as a character, by allowing herself to be who she is and not worry about what others are saying or how she is judged. She knows when to say no, and she knows when to listen when someone tells her to shut up and pay attention... even if she doesn't trust that person as far as she can throw them (without magic).

This book, I think, attempted (and succeeded) to show how much each character has grown, and even shows how much further they have to go in understanding who they are and what they want out of life. Rachel, as mentioned above, is beginning to except who and what she is. She knows that Pierce is probably not the guy for her, because of his lack of regret at using black magic. Jenks is slowly getting over Matalina, and I think this road trip helped him put life in perspective. It gained him a new friend, and upon his return a new ally in the cemetery. He's also hysterical as usual! Constant source of laughter in this series. I would explain Ivy's growth as a character here, but I'm afraid that any mention of it would be spoilerish. She's matured greatly over the last few books, and understands what she needs out of her remaining living life and out of a partner. Al, one of the best characters in this whole series, has been quite intriquing. His actions and responses to Rachel's actions and abilities are a little astonishing. Instead of his old ways, throwing Rachel around, and attempting to hurt her, he shows that he can actually care for her. It may be that he is in desperate need of her down in the Ever After, but I think it goes deeper than that. Newt, by far is the scariest character in these books. She seems to show no remorse for things she has done, and sometimes slips into weird quiet moods, making everyone around her wonder what in the hell is going on in that head of hers. Trent, above all shows the most growth as a character, yet we get to see a deeper and a more lonely side to him. I look forward to what's in store in Trent's future.

I spend a lot of time talking about the characters in this series, and I do this every "review" because they are the driving force behind these books. Yes, the plot is amazing, and yes the setting and world building are fantastic, but the characters are what draw me in and keep me wanting more. There has been a lack of David the werewolf and pack in recent books; however, he doesn't go unmentioned. Hopefully, and I don't think it is, the were portion of Rachel's life isn't finished. I think there is more to explore there. Also, the loss of Kisten still weighs heavily on Rachel and Ivy. Unlike in some series when a character dies and often goes unmentioned in future books, we are still reminded of the impact this loss had on everyone involved, especially the girls.

This is by far one of the top two books in this series, and that's a testimony to how much love Kim Harrison pours into this series. The action, plot, and characters haven't faded a bit, and it seems to be moving full speed ahead. Also, for you Trent fans....you better grab this one quick because there is no lack of Trent ogling going on in this one.

One of the things I have grown to love about Rachel Morgan through all of these nine books is her constant positive and hopeful perspective with others, despite how contrary their behavior. Though her friends and partners are telling her in so many ways that the rulers of her kind, the witches' council, will never let her make it to the coast and are more interested in killing her than anything else, she won't believe it until she sees for herself. And then there is her odds-defying ability to always find a way to survive against all attacks - she truly has become one of a kind, as is revealed in several ways in this book, with her match-up against the just-released demon creation that is her genetic match, as well as the sad speech that Ivy gives her about how Rachel is leaving her and Jenks behind with the way she can create change across all species.
And if that is not enough to keep her busy, Rachel's love life only becomes more complicated, since Pierce has professed his love for her in the previous book, and Rachel feels a certain obligation to him. Of course, Al continues to pursue Rachel despite her refusals, and one violent-turned-steamy moment showed the kind of lust-filled potential that exists between them. Towards the end of the book, Rachel also makes a rather interesting observation about demons in general that could put Al in the potential category for future books. If two men is not enough to keep her busy, a very obvious growing attraction between her and Trent seems to show the most promise, and is ironically the one I found myself most rooting for, especially with some of the scenes in the book.
Trent's part in the book is an elf quest of sorts that he is particularly silent about, but gets him in all kinds of trouble and just creates more work for Rachel and crew. Of course, the outcome of this quest makes Trent more likable in the end, but he has to do much to prove himself to Rachel. The newest element to the series in this book was the use of wild magic by the elves, which has an untamed, old world quality that Rachel dislikes immensely. Trent wields it well, though often secretly and against Rachel's wishes.
In the end, the revelations that Rachel undergoes regarding herself and the people around her mark a major turning point for her and the series. I only wish I knew when the next book was due for release!

Kim Harrison's witty, kick-butt action heroine returns for more epic awesome in the latest installment of the Rachel Morgan/The Hollows series. I've been a fan of Rachel Morgan since I read the first sentence all those years ago in Dead Witch Walking and I haven't stopped since. It's been so much fun to go along with Rachel, her pixy Jenks and vampire-friend Ivy on their fascinating (and sometimes hair-brained) adventures throughout the years. Each books seems to bring more interesting facets of the Hollows world to life as the characters continue to evolve and the witty humor on gets better.

The end of Black Magic Sanction left our sexy, witty witch Rachel Morgan with the unwanted brand of being a black witch. Pale Demon picks up just about where Black Magic Sanction dropped off, where Rachel and co. (Jenks, Trent, Ivy) take a cross-country road trip (okay, really, what are they thinking??) to clear Rachel's name. Not only do they have to survive enemies in their way that would keep Rachel black-listed, but they have to survive each other.

Packed with non-stop action, Pale Demon is a thrill ride from start to finish. Mixing together her trademark humor with a fascinating paranormal world, author Kim Harrison is at her writing peak. Without seemingly breaking a sweat, she's able to combine a well-paced, character-driven plot with realistic character development without letting one element drag the other down. Frankly, I was surprised at the fact that the same characters who have been around for eight plus books can still continue to amaze me and grow into deeper and more believable characters. I've read so much about them, especially Rachel, that I almost feel like I know them personally and may be able to predict their every more -but I still want to know what happens next.

Everything in the Rachel Morgan universe has been leading up to the events in Pale Demon. And though some crucial events take place, there's still plenty of action and plenty of story left after Pale Demon to keep fans coming back for more.

If you're already a Rachel Morgan fan, than Pale Demon doesn't disappoint. It's everything and more that fans have come to more. Of course, if you happen to be new to the Rachel Morgan world (really? have you been living under a rock?), then I'd suggest starting back at the beginning of the series, because Pale Demon has practically no exposition before launching into an adrenaline-filled roller coaster of epic awesome. A great installment in the series and can't wait for the next one!

PALE DEMON by Kim Harrison.

This is book 9. I feel like the author has nothing left to write about. It's lots of conversation about very little. When bad guys appear, Rachel solves the problem by pulling on a ley line and using magic.

My biggest problem is I don't like Rachel. She doesn't show humility. She acts like a bratty snotty teenager. Most of the time she argues, gets angry, and threatens. There is a lot of "You did this? Well I'm going to do that to you."

Trent enthrals two assassins so he can ask them who sent them. The enthral only lasts a couple of minutes. Rachel is furious and argues with Trent because his enthral used "black magic." She wasted time instead of asking the assassins who sent them. Finally Jenks and Ivy interrupted Rachel's rant and asked the assassins who sent them. I was not interested in watching Rachel do this.

The author used contrivances to create suspense which annoyed me. For example, someone tells Rachel to plead guilty, go to jail, don't worry, I have a plan. But he doesn't tell her the plan. So for a long time Rachel is worried and there is a lot of angst. I would rather just see how the trial and things worked out instead of someone saying "I have a plan, but I'm not going to tell you."

More contrivance examples. Rachel rushes in yelling "they took him...they took him." After a minute Trent gets out of the shower and says "took who?"

Rachel makes statements like "It didn't work." A minute later the reader hears that it did work.

The word clench was over used. I felt like it was used on every other page. There is teeth clenched, jaw clenched, gut clenched, fingers clenched, hands clenched, my heart seemed to clench, worry clenched my chest, we both clenched in pain, stomach clenched, clenched my eyes, my gut unclenched as it grew quiet.

I listened to the first 15 hours and couldn't take any more. So I jumped to the last chapter and was glad to be out.

THE HOLLOWS (RACHEL MORGAN) SERIES:
As of 2013 there are 11 books in the series. Sadly it's not for me, but I gave it a try. The three I read are:
3 stars. Dead Witch Walking, Book 1
2 stars. The Good, the Bad, and the Undead, Book 2
1 star. Pale Demon, Book 9

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Narrative mode: 1st person Rachel. Unabridged audiobook length: 17 hrs and 54 mins. Swearing language: strong but rarely used. Sexual content: none in the first 15 hours. Setting: time similar to current day various U.S. locations. Book copyright: 2011. Genre: urban fantasy.

Toss a witch, a vampire, a pixy and an elf in sensible sedan and of course you're going to have one hell of a road-trip. They all have a tight deadline to get to the West Coast--Rachel wants to get her shunning revoked and Trent has a secretive "quest." The trip involving the partners from Vampiric Charms and Trent (!) has them bonding---as well as fighting off elvish hit men, a pissed-off coven of witches, a never-before-seen demon and really horrible diner food.

Having Trent away from his politician role and from the protection of Quen does have him break from his "public persona" and relax----well, he lets his guard down for a few seconds, but he's got a mission he needs to complete (his "quest" results in something I didn't see coming and it will change the role Trent has had in the series up until now).

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This book does see the characters grow, especially Rachel becoming more comfortable with her power, but fear not there is also Rachel's recurring (and sometimes annoying) quirks showing up. First off, Rachel remains easily enamored, easily developing affection... and ends up showing that through kisses--- and there's *a lot* of kissing in this book. Some are good-bye kisses and some bear the Rachel Morgan trademark of "confused affection" which will no doubt have to be addressed down the line in this series. Another recurring quirk that we know about Rachel is that she doesn't take the easy way out---she will make a choice save someone and there will be consequences (even though it would be easier for them to just "go away").

Rachel and Trent form their own tentative trust in this book but Rachel also bonds with Al. She sees Al at some vulnerable points in the demon reality and begins to think of him as protector and friend... which makes where the book left them off painfully unresolved for me (not that I ship them...). Al gets to peek into Rachel's mind as well and he tells her: "I saw what you are, he said, "and I was ashamed. I saw what you expect from a person, and I'd call you a bitch except you demand it from yourself as well. I saw how you see me...It wasn't anything I didn't already know, but it made me wonder what I lack, what isn't there." (Again, not that I ship them, but...I would love for them to be BBFs or resolve what needs to be resolved).

While the trip results in big changes for Rachel and her relationship with Trent and Al, the trip also appears help Jenks overcome his grief. Pierce and Bis see their roles change as well. Ivy, however, doesn't play a large role in this book. In the story, the character acknowledges it and also acknowledges how special Rachel is by how she has changed everything among the Weres, elves, and vampires. It is bittersweet acknowledgment of how Ivy has seen Rachel grow.

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This book does see the characters grow, especially Rachel becoming more comfortable with her power, but fear not there is also Rachel's recurring (and sometimes annoying) quirks showing up. First off, Rachel remains easily enamored, easily developing affection... and ends up showing that through kisses--- and there's *a lot* of kissing in this book. Some are good-bye kisses and some bear the Rachel Morgan trademark of "confused affection" which will no doubt have to be addressed down the line in this series. Another recurring quirk that we know about Rachel is that she doesn't take the easy way out---she will make a choice save someone and there will be consequences (even though it would be easier for them to just "go away").

Rachel and Trent form their own tentative trust in this book but Rachel also bonds with Al. She sees Al at some vulnerable points in the demon reality and begins to think of him as protector and friend... which makes where the book left them off painfully unresolved for me (not that I ship them...). Al gets to peek into Rachel's mind as well and he tells her: "I saw what you are, he said, "and I was ashamed. I saw what you expect from a person, and I'd call you a bitch except you demand it from yourself as well. I saw how you see me...It wasn't anything I didn't already know, but it made me wonder what I lack, what isn't there." (Again, not that I ship them, but...I would love for them to be BBFs or resolve what needs to be resolved).

While the trip results in big changes for Rachel and her relationship with Trent and Al, the trip also appears help Jenks overcome his grief. Pierce and Bis see their roles change as well. Ivy, however, doesn't play a large role in this book. In the story, the character acknowledges it and also acknowledges how special Rachel is by how she has changed everything among the Weres, elves, and vampires. It is bittersweet acknowledgment of how Ivy has seen Rachel grow.

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This book lets us see how potentially powerful and bad-ass Rachel can be (and how potentially less-bad-ass (i.e., dare I say "nice") Trent and Al could be). In the end, Rachel is given the opportunity to make choices. But in true Rachel Morgan fashion, some big issues remain unresolved, so there is no doubt trouble on the horizon. I can't help but wonder if involves the chrysalis from Al that remains on Rachel's windowsill...

(proof originally provided by netgalley, but purchased the hardcover for my collection)

I devoured the book, staying up well past lights out two nights running. I am so depressed that I finished and must now wait another year until the next installment. I want to be Rachel... To stride down the street, confused but powerful, sexy but fearful of her mistakes. Our "itchy witch" is growing by leaps and bounds. Ms Harrison has become a master at characterization. They are all flawed, but not unbelievably. I don't know which of the men in Rachel's life to root for. From the beginning I felt the bond between Trent and Rachel, but her demon, Al, is a close contender. And we know she still must save the souls of living vampires before someone inadvertently kills Ivy. Pierce was good for a while, but he is really no match for Rachel. Kisten was a stepping stone toward diversity throwing in the great sex possible between races. Marshall, never very likable, but it was interesting again to read about the melding of auras during sex, making it so much more. Nick was a waste of Rachel's time. Glad she is over humans. But with our itchy witch being a cross breed witch demon, how intersting will it be when she joins with the Elf King? I am looking forward to the next installment. I have a number of favorite authors, but Ms. Harrison has woven better and better stories and the characters have grown before our very eyes. I beleive in magic and fantasy when I become immersed in a Hollows book. Kim Harrison has staying power and is an inspiration to beginning novelists on how to do it right. Thank you, Kim Harrison. I am waiting, impatiently for your next installment.

Labeled a black witch, Rachel Morgan needs to make the witches' meeting in San Francisco so she can fulfill her promise to apologize to the coven of moral and ethical standards for her use of black magic in exchange for getting her shunning rescinded. But the coven is making it difficult for her to do so. And if the shunning isn't lifted Rachel loses her bet to Al and must live in the ever-after with demons. Trent joins the group in the cross-country drive as he also needs to get to the West Coast by a certain time, but refuses to say why.

This ninth book in the Hollows series, in a world with witches, vampires, pixies, demons, fairies, elves and other assorted species, is as action-packed as the prior books and filled with a number of surprises. In the road trip alone the group faces assassins, a kidnapping and a day-walking super demon. More growth for Rachel in this story as she comes to terms with what she is and how to use some of her new abilities. Trust is a running theme in this story.

If you thought you knew Trent, think again. Many will be pleased to finally learn more about him.

This book will not work well as a stand-alone. There is no way to appreciate the relationships and challenges faced by the characters without living the adventurous history with them, beginning with Dead Witch Walking. This story is a fine addition to the series which could be taking a new direction. It's amazing that after so many books, the author still manages to alter it just enough to keep the series fresh.

Reviewed from ARC thru NetGalley

I've been a fan of Kim Harrison every since the first Hollows book, and the books themselves just keep getting better and better, and richer and more complex. These are the kind of books that I personally buy in hardcover because I read and re-read them, and paperbacks just don't stand up to that very well.

This was an odd book, as most bridge books tend to be. As another reviewer said, you get the sense that there are a lot of loose ends being gathered up and some tied off and gotten rid of. I got that feeling as well, and was perplexed with the direction that I THINK Ms. Harrison is taking the series. It was interesting to me to see that the Ivy/Rachel relationship was resolved in the manner that it was, ditto the relationship between Jenks/Rachel. More interesting is the ELF QUEST that was a dominant part of the book. I've always liked Trent, even when he was being *MR* Corporate/druglord/saviour of his people (I know some people that think that the end justifies the means even if it kills a lot of folks that are not of your tribe or under your protection along the way).Gosh, the boy made some major mistakes along the way. He also paid for them, and stated that the cost was worth it. That's Trent on a whole new level, and I liked it.

I'm glad to see, as well, that Rachel doesn't get new super-special powers every time she does something magical. I was afraid that that was going to start with this book, as it sort of semi-started with BLACK MAGIC SANCTION. Of course, that was Al and Newt pushing her along, but I'm still glad that the addition of powers were a logical outgrowth of strengthening what she aleeady had. There's a big difference between honing the powers that you already have and being given new ones that are both irrelevant and unnecessary simply as a device to move a lame plot along. Hs. Harrison has avoided that trap with ease.

The way that the beginning of the sundering of the ties between the owners of VAMPIRIC CHARMS is going is the oddest part of the book. Rachel is making good choices at last, her companions are realizing that she will always be with them even as she moves on, and the final bit of Wild Magic that Trent does is the PERFECT uh, GEEZ, WTF??? that is going to bring me back to see how that is resolved.

I'm eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series. GOT to see where she goes with this. No matter what, it's going to be an interesting read.

I picked Pale Demon up not paying attention to it belonging to a series to which it is number 9. Kim Harrison writes is such a memorizing manner that it does not matter if you have read the prior books.

Rachel Morgan, a witch living in a church owned and occupied by Jenks, the Pixie and his children and her friend, Day walking Vampire Ivy Tamwood,is on a mission to get to the West coast and clear her name at the Coven of Moral and Ethical Standards of performing black magic. The problem is, she is guilty of summoning the demon Algalilarept tainting her aura. Along the way she finds she has been put upon the no fly list. It just so happens, Trent Kalamack, a much hated elven, requires Rachel assistant to get to Seattle. However, Rachel hates this idea, but eventually agrees.

During their cross country car ride Trent releases a day walking demon out to kill Rachel and wreak havoc on everything in it's way while eating the souls of innocent bystanders, pixies included.

This book is magical, eccentric, action packed and I was devastated when it ended.

I highly recommend grabbing some hot tea, cuddling up on the couch, and jumping into Rachel's world. you won't regret it!

This is now my favorite book in the series. Hands down! I loved every single page. Rachel continues to be one of the best UF heroines out there in my opinion. She is tough, but not so much that she doesn't have a heart. I am in awe of what Kim Harrison has done with Rachel from book 1 to book 9. She really has grown in a believable way and I appreciate the character development.

Pale Demon picks up about 2 months after Black Magic Sanction ends. Rachel is still dealing with the shunning by the coven. She has to get across the country to attend the coven meeting to try and get her shunning rescinded. I so enjoyed her trip there, because you know in Rachel's life nothing is ever easy. Assassin attacks and super bad demons make for an interesting trip.

This one had a lot about Trent and I loved that so much. I have always been a Trent fan and now I have more to fawn over! We also learned more about some of the demons and the ever after which I was fascinated with. Kim Harrison has really built an amazing world and I think it is one of the best in the genre. If for some reason you have been holding out on reading this series, I urge you to get book 1 and get caught up before the next book comes out! I have no idea where the series could go from here, but as long as it is in the capable hands of Kim Harrison I am not worried at all.

BOTTOM LINE: MY FAVORITE IN THE SERIES SO FAR! I LOVED IT AND CAN BARELY STAND TO WAIT FOR BOOK 10!

Source: Publisher Harper Voyager in exchange for an honest and fair review.

*SPOILERS*
My favorite so far for Rachel, Jenks, Ivy and Trent. This book even had me liking Trent by the end of it, which even in some of the others I had some doubts to whether or not that I thought that he could really hate Rachel or not.

For those of you that have never read The Hollows Novels, I suggests that you try them, they are a MUST READ! Witches, pixies, living vampiries, and fae just start it off she has it all. It has a sassy, fun herione, with a side kick that is a pixy (think tinkerbell size hunk),and a living vampire roomate that is a girl that has the hots for you. This is all in the first book. LOVE IT!

Pale Demon.....

Rachel is shunned and is depending on Trent to get her to the annual convention, but how fun will that be with a crowded car full of a witch, elf, a pixy and a vampire???? And some seriously bad dudes hot on their tails? Well tons obviously, I loved this book, with the twist of The elf qwest and Trent going across country with the help of Rachel to get his child, I couldn't have loved the story more.

The fact that Rachel had to become a full fledged demon in this book and the fun twist at the end that Trent did at the end to get her back that tricked Al, I loved it. Worth it, everytime. I cannot wait for her next book!

ROAD TRIP! Pack your bags and fasten your seat belts, it's gonna get freaky! Pale Demon by Kim Harrison is the 9th book in The Hollows series. It has all the charm, action, fun, and snarkiness that all the other books in the series have.

With everyone stuck in a car together, there's a lot of interaction between the ones making the trip - Rachel, Ivy, Trent, and Jenks. Although with ley line jumping, plenty of other characters get in the mix. They may even pick up a hitchhiker or two. The intense forced closeness of a car journey brought out a lot of bickering, but also some surprise revelations about the characters. They couldn't help but do a bit of bonding.

The story is full of demons, pixy dust, and Rachel's trademark experimental magic. In my opinion, this book is better than the last. Kim Harrison never disappoints!

I have read so many book series that start out amazing, with so much promise, but then the light starts to dim as more books are added and the series starts to flat line...but Kim Harrison's newest book, Pale Demon, is an exception. Book nine of The Hollows series, Pale Demon is just as edgy, spellbinding, and captivating as ever! Rachel Morgan has to pull out all the tricks...even ones that she is not sure she has...to help clear her name, remain free from the demonic ever after, and finally come to terms with what she really is. And what better way to learn who she is then to subject herself to a long car ride across the country with a sexy vampire, an irritatingly handsome elf, a carefree pixy, and a couple coven members, all while trying to dodge assassins. If you have not had the pleasure to read Rachel Morgan's story, do yourself a favor and pick up the first book in The Hollows series, Dead Witch Walking, and continue straight through until you have finished Pale Demon. You will instantly see why The Hollows series is one of my favorite series and I'm sure it will quickly become one of your favorites as well. I can't wait for more from the amazingly talented Kim Harrison!

The most head-scratchingly complex relationship in the Rachel Morgan series has always been between Rachel and Trent.

And after several books of dancing around the topic, Kim Harrison dives headfirst into the respectful-yet-antagonistic relationship in "Pale Demon." Her ninth Rachel Morgan book is a taut, lean thriller with crackling dialogue and some very unusual magic -- and the centerpiece is the baggage-laden exchanges between witch and elf.

While Rachel is preparing for her coven pardon and her brother's wedding, Trent reveals that he wants to take her there himself. Je also has important business in the same area -- and despite her reservations, Rachel reluctantly agrees. But their road trip is interrupted when a trio of elf assassins attack them in St. Louis.

It turns out that Trent is after something he's desperate to claim from his ex-fiancee, and he needs Rachel as his "mirror, sword and shield." And their road trip only gets worse as they deal with pixie tribes, hostile witches, and a daywalking demon named Ku'Sox. As the witch world turns against Rachel again, she finds that she is the only one who can stop Ku'Sox.

"Pale Demon" is basically about a vacation from hell that blooms into a massive supernatural battle. But under the skin, the book is actually about the relationship between Trent and Rachel, which always seems to be hitting potholes -- when they aren't practically ripping each other's heads off, they're sizzling with sexual tension.

And after the complicated tangles of the last few books, "Pale Demon" is a relatively straightforward book -- there's a lean, fast-paced story entangled with just a few running subplots. Harrison's prose is sharp and steely, with plenty of flashy magic battles, gory attacks by Ku'Sox, and some little moments of comic relief (Trent's "smiley face" mark).

As usual, Rachel is put through the physical and emotional grinder -- when she isn't grappling with demons, she's desperately trying to defend herself against the coven. Her verbal fencing with Trent makes for fascinating reading, especially since it's obvious that she's beginning to not only trust but love him. Yes, the romantic hints are piling up.

And Harrison takes the time to further flesh out characters like Ivy (whose friendship with Rachel reaches a bittersweet landmark), Al, and the ever-adorable Jenks ("Take me with you Trent. I've never been on an elf quest before! Ple-e-e-e-ase?") who is starting to move on after his wife's death.

Kim Harrison throws some shocking curveballs into "Pale Demon's" twisty plot, but the real centerpiece is the relationship between Trent and Rachel. A must-read.

Rachel is headed for San Francisco to take part in her brother's wedding. But before she can do that she must attend the Annual Witches Convention to clear her name. Before she leaves town things start to fall apart quickly and she is reduced to sharing a ride with Trent Kalamack. With assassins on their tail, it'll be a miracle if Rachel and company make to California in one piece.

This is the 9th book in The Hollows series, and it's still fresh and exciting as ever. Pale Demon is a roller coaster ride, and I loved every minute. An epic road trip that changes everything. Kim Harrison is a master at capturing the reader. She writes amazing characters that find their way to your heart, even the villainous ones.

There are so many things I'm eager to say about the book, but everyone would be a spoiler. This installment really wowed me, maybe even more than the previous books. I loved and hated the ending. Loved it for what it might bring in the future and hated because it was the end of the book. When it comes to this series I always want more. It's definitely a must read.

I recommend both this book and the series. But if you are new to this series, I highly recommend you start with book one: Dead Witch Walking.

I have to admit that after Black Magic Sanction, I was a little worried about what Harrison might do next with Rachel. I've seen too many times author's fizzle out around eight or nine books into a series, leading whatever comes next into repetitive dribble. Not so with Pale Demon. Truly, this is one of the best in the series - quite possibly my favorite.

As other reviewers mention, some loose ends get tied up, but as I thought about the book upon finishing it last night (and I read the final 40 pages twice just to soak it all in), I think Harrison left it open for some really wonderful plot possibilities. I really love the way Rachel has grown up, in this novel especially. For once, she stops to think before she acts. I like the development of her relationship with Trent, and I hope to see more of that in the future. But, my favorite parts were really the growth of Al and Newt and Rachel's time in the ever after.

I don't want to spoil too much, but I can see vast possibilities in how Harrison can proceed, and I hope that the character development seen in this novel continues apace and that we get more of Rachel as she becomes a powerhouse on the supernatural stage.

I've enjoyed this series from the very first. There were books that were super and others that left me hollow. Some that ended just depressing. This one was adventurous, full of character growth--for ALL characters involved, eye opening, AND it left me feeling fulfilled and happy for our main character Rachel. I can't wait to see where she's going to take this new outlook for Rach in the future. Bring it on! I'm ready for book 10!

Rachel is heading West for redemption, as well as her brother's wedding. It wasn't surprising to find out she's not allowed on the plane and will have to drive the whole way. What is surprising is being talked into taking the trip with Trent...the same man that has tried on numerous occasions to have her killed. Rachel, Trent, Jenks, and Ivy pile up in the old Buick and hit the road. Later, to be joined by Vivian. They encounter one complication after another (mostly Trent's fault).

What really made this book was the fact that the characters grew. Trent becomes a different man, Rachel becomes less dependent, Jenks learns to live without his wife, and Ivy learns how to be happy on her own. I loved it!

This has got to be my favorite Hollows book so far. You never know what to expect with this book and we see Rachel, Trent, Jenks and Ivy on a harrowing road trip, racing against demons, assassins and a time frame. It is easy to get caught up in these books, when you are witch with a demonic nature, life if never boring and you will not be bored while reading Pale Demon. The action is fast and furious and it features Harrison's typical wit and humor. This far surpasses the prior books in my opinion. In some of the earlier books, Rachel tends to whine, act a lot bratty and it made it harder to identify with but in this book, she is strong (still a little bratty) but it works. All of the small issues that I had with prior books were absent in this one. This is a solid read.

This book is most definitely my favorite of the series so far! I am an idiot for thinking I could read it during my final exam period. I had some difficulties ever putting this book down, and even when I did manage it I found myself sneaking in chapters between studying, but it was worth it! I was hooked from just reading the blurb about this book- a witch, a vampire, a pixie, and an elf on a cross country road trip. I assumed the elf would be Ceri but instead, Rachel and Trent decide to become travel buddies in order to get them both safely to the West Coast for their own motives. This book was hilarious, dramatic, entertaining, and wonderful- just about all the things I could ask for in book! For me, the ending was a little bittersweet, but I know it's only setting the stage for the next book in the series.

Rachel Morgan is trying to clear her name with the Witches Coven out in California and still try to attend her brother's wedding. Trenton Kalamck wants Rachel to go with him on his elfquest because Quen won't leave Ceri by herself while pregnant. Rachel, Ivy, Jenks, and Trent all go on a road trip out to California along the way encounter trouble of the demon and elves variety. Rachel is battling herself over how to protect Trent even from himself. Rachel is being followed by Vivian a Coven Member. Trent unleashes a demon he cannot control at all. Jenks is kidnapped. Can anything else go wrong? Yes it can. Coven Members attack Rachel and Ivy in their hotel. Will Trent finish his elfquest? Can Jenks help Trent? Can Rachel accept Ivy's goodbye? Will Pierce betray Rachel? Will Al come to Rachel's rescue? Is Rachel strong enough to survive? Your answers await you in Pale Demon.

***NOTE***Spoilers Follow

I was psyched to read this book from all the good reviews. And indeed, it was a wonderful book. There was some great character development, I loved the scene where Rachel realizes she is an actual demoness and comes to embrace that.

But seriously? The ending? Just after she embraces her true nature, she rejects it again with that stupid band that Trent gave her? I was waiting and waiting for her to reject it, but no, she kept it right up to the end of the book.

If she's a demon, I want to see her gaining some real ability. So far she's just only scraped by, or her magic has been very raw and inelegant.

I'd love to see her really learn from Al and expand her abilities, instead of depending on luck to save her every time.

I was so mad by the end of the book that I was reluctant to pick up the next book, but of course I have to see how this continues.

This book was awesome! I loved it from start to finish. These characters being stuck together like this was brilliant. I had my reservations about it at first thinking that it might be boring, but trust me they hit a lot of bumps and pot holes in the road to keep it interesting. The story had me gasping, tense, anxious and it was all wrapped around this funny, constant, and sarcastic banter between the characters. I loved Trent in this one, the twists, and the surprises. I will add this book to my other favorites of the series, number 3 and 4.

I listened to the audiobook (unabridged) of this as I usually do before I run out and buy the book so I'm not wasting money. Needless to say I own all the books up until now and this will be no exception. I couldn't stop! I rolled over in bed still listening to it to find that the clock read 7 AM!

Pale Demon delivers a good story like all the others and doesn't stop! In the final chapters I cheered and hooted and hollered like mad with happiness at the break through with Trent. Needless to say, I wasn't alone at seeing this coming, even from the beginning of the series, but was glad as all hell to final see Rachel notice the same things the readers had already figured out.

About damn time!

The story keeps one on their toes and running right along side Rachel.

This is one of the best books of the series THE HOLLOWS. I found that I could barely put it down to do other things. The story is spellbinding and the character development is perfect. You see sides of the main characters that have never been revealed before that makes the plot more enjoyable. I love this author and will be very disappointed when I complete the series. I have already added another of Harrison's series to my wish list of my ebooks. I highly recommend this series and Kim Harrison's other series. All of them are amazing and well worth the read.

I just adore these books, they are always a treat to read. The characters have all grown on me and I love them and always enjoy spending time with them. I read this book in a few days even though I wanted to savor it...doesn't that always happen? Like all the books in the Rachel Morgan series, this book was so good. Somehow, Al became endearing, Oliver is an ass (surprise), the trial pissed me off and now I am hoping that Rachel hooks up with Trent...oh Trent, mysterious AND sexy... Rachel's world keeps evolving and changing and I think one of the things that I love about her is that she is a survivor. She doesn't just give up because life is too hard or that it looks bleak. She adapts and changes with what life throws at her and always does her best to make the right choices. I can't wait until the next book to see where she takes us next...

I have to say, I think this is my favorite book in the series so far! It all came together so smoothly and kept me reading untill the early morning hours! The plot was so much better this time, because there were no disruptive too long sub-plots. And the road trip/change of location was a wonderful idea! Harrison wrote with a skilled and striking prose that captured the essence and mood of every scene in the novel. Her writing just keeps getting better and better.
The characters were superbly developed and really began to evolve in this instalment. Their interactions are what makes this such an apealing series for me. I'm very glad to see the deepening of relationships between certain characters! I've been waiting for it to happen for awhile now. I didn't agree with Rachel's decision at the end concerning ley line magic and I'm hopefull she will change her mind in book 10! Guess I'll have to wait till November to find out...

Kim Harrison is just so much fun to read. For a Urban Fantasy author, she completely gets the need for story, adventure and just enough relationship interaction to give the story meaning without gutting the Fantasy elements of the story in favor or a Paranormal Romance. In Pale Demon, so many of the adventures that take place are based on relationships, but it is about commitment to friends and doing what's right. What a remarkable combination to be able to read about.

Rachel Morgan has been in deep trouble with the "good witch" PTA for some time now. Her willingness to take personal risk, use questionable spells, and interact with demons and other less than savory characters in order to maintain her freedom and save her friends have been the stuff of legend. For the members of the witches coven it has been more than they are willing sanction as her being a white witch and she has been ruthlessly persecuted by them, shunned and had her life threatened despite the fact that she has even defended some of them at times. It's truly a case of political and magical purity run amok.

Pale Demon continues to track Rachel's progression as a practitioner of demon magic. She's becoming someone of a prodigy and her links to Trent Kalamack and his father's manipulation of her DNA remain an important theme as Harrison leads Rachel along the path of figuring out who she has been turned into. It's clear that there is more to Rachel Morgan than meets the eye!

Rachel's adventures in Pale Demon are truly exciting. Everything from a giant pixy eating bird to an all out battle with a rogue demon to save the human race is part of the wonderful storyline. Rachel's brash nature makes things worse for her at times, as well all expect, but half the fun is watching as she and her friends rise to the many challenges that Harrison creates for them. The best part of it all is still her interaction and loyalty to friends like Jenks, Ivy and even the complicated relationship with Trent.

Pale Demon is another tour de force performance by one of the leading authors in the Urban Fantasy genre. Kim Harrison's well established set of characters, her deft touch a balancing the many themes of Urban Fantasy and just a generally fun to read storyline make Pale Demon one of the better books that I have read in the last 6 months. Truly, the Hollows series is amazing and Pale Demon is up there with the best of the books that have been part of it.

Synopsis: Cincinnati-dwelling witch Rachel Morgan is about to take a road trip. In order to get her shunning revoked, Rachel has to travel to San Francisco to the annual witch convention. Sounds simple enough, right? It might be until you throw in an elf on a quest and a day-walking demon.

Before Rachel can scoot out of town, Trent Kalamack, local big-wig and elf, asks Rachel to assist him in getting to Seattle. He's on a super secret elf quest, which requires he drive across the country instead of fly. Trent doesn't truly want Rachel to go, but Trent's head of security, Quen, insists he has protection on his journey. Since Quen can't do it himself, he wants Rachel to get Trent there safely.

Rachel, Ivy, Jenks, and Trent, head across the country. Things are going smoothly until elven assassins attack the group. Once that situation is under control, an even bigger problem throws itself at the group: a day-walking demon is set loose in this reality. A day-walking demon that eats souls.

Rachel and the gang have to figure out how to handle the demon as it leaves havoc in its wake AND make the deadlines for Trent's quest and Rachel's witch convention.

Review: I loved this book. I think this was my favorite Hollows book in a very long time. Kim Harrison produces great Urban Fantasy. I. LOVE. HER.

This book read really quickly. The plot was speedy and not so mired down in the Ivy/Rachel relationship issues that many of the previous novels have been.

The plot itself was excellent! I loved the storyline. I really enjoyed the tension and humor that arose from Trent and Rachel being forced to work together. Since Trent was such a huge part of the plot, I feel like I got to know him much better as a character. He is typically always the bad guy in some sense, in these books. With this novel, the reader got to know Trent a bit better and actually like him more than before.

I loved the resolution of the plot and larger issues that have streamed throughout the novels. I don't do spoilers, so I won't name them specifically, but I really enjoyed seeing some of the issues that Rachel has struggled with for many installments, finally be wrapped up in a sense.

Overall, I really enjoyed this novel. I highly recommend this series and book! Many thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!

I enjoyed this book quite a bit. I feel this series has had it's ups and downs, I think it's lying to say anything otherwise.

This book continues the story of what happened to Rachel in the previous book, namely, that she's a demon. The story itself has good dialogue, pacing and plot. If you're a previous fan, this book will be a good read. I found the outcomes and consequences of this book to be quite interesting, and eagerly look forward to the next sequel.

At the same time, this book really didn't have a "Wow" factor for me either, simply the logical (though not completely predictable) continuation of the existing plot-line. So 4 stars for me.

I think if you've been really unhappy with the storyline for sometime, then this book may not really impress you much, unfortunately.

A slow-burning wick for the first half, this story erupts in a chain of rapid, major events that will leave you trying to catch your breath at the end. While the trip to the West Coast is more than a car ride, and there is more than one source of danger abound, it's still slow compared to the action you might expect. Action takes over once they arrive in San Fran.

This novel, for the first time, doesn't end with a brilliant spontaneous plan created by Rachel resulting in a happy ending. We do get the happy ending, but it is wrought by the one person who's ever outsmarted Rachel. There's a lot of suspense, going into the end of the book, because though our protagonist's survival is assured, the integrity of her team is not, and we see a major change occur there.

The war with demons is on its greatest scale in this book, for the first time, and we see keenly that Rachel is right in between, and there is no one anywhere that matches her position. Not even her team.

Rachel's relationship with Trent is on fast-forward in this book, and I worry how that's going to be okay because there are four novels to go. The next book is going to have to put some brakes on it.

(This was originally posted on Book Lovers Inc)

WARNING: This is as usual a spoiler-free review for the book. But I make references to previous books in the series, which could be spoilery if you haven't read them. As usual, I try to be as vague as possible. (I hope it still makes sense lol)

Pale Demon is the 9th book in the Hollows series. This series is very close to my heart. I've loved all the books, even the ones which made me cry like a freaking baby (seriously). Pale Demon is now my favorite in this series, it's fantastic and so good I wish I could marry it. (ok ok, I admit... I wish I could marry Trent). If I'd written this review as soon as I'd finished reading Pale Demon, it would probably had started like that: *squuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuueeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee*

So now that I've had time to think upon the book and calm down, here's my review:

*squuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuueeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee*

All the things I love about this series can be found in Pale Demon...but there's also so much more! I devoured the book. It really was impossible to put down. Kim Harrison gave a new breath to this series by opening new roads (lots) and ending a few ongoing side-plots (that had been really dragging on for too long) .

It's no breaking news that I love Trent (hey I even named my E-reader after him). Anyway, Pale Demon gave us a whole new side of Trent. I think I love him even more now, can you believe it? He is a jerk all right, we all know he's ruthless and he even tortured Rachel in the earlier books. He keeps telling her, he'll kill her sooner or later, and still I love him. (I really have a thing for jerks it seems).

The story is very different from the other books in the series, it FEELS different. Well first, it's a roadtrip story, it's a welcomed change of scenery . Can you imagine Trent and Rachel in the same car for days? Ah! Yes obviously it doesn't go smoothly. Pale Demon is action-packed, so many things happen, there's not one boring moment. All my favorite characters are here and most of all AL! Yes AL the demon.

So, okay AL is a demon and he's very violent and tried to kill Rachel so many times I stopped counting, but I really like him. He's fun and complex and a little weird. We learn a lot about him and I can't wait to know what happen next. I was sooooo happy that we get to see a lot more of him and the Ever-After (demon world) . This is the second reason why I loved this book: Kim Harrison gave us a whole new vision of the Ever-After and demons in general. I won't say more because I don't want spoil anything but it ROCKS! I love the demons and I'm thrilled that they appeared in this book.

There were some...weird scenes (I don't know how else to call them) where you could feel that the author was trying to break ties to the past and opening new roads for her characters. I didn't like it much, but at least we know the story will go forward from now on. (or at least I hope so). I haven't always loved Rachel, mostly because she made some serious bad decisions in the past (I wanted to slap her silly SO often in the previous books). Well, she's still making bad decisions but you feel that she's grown up a bit and she's more open-minded than before, I really like her in this book.

I won't say who, but someone gets their HEA in this book. I couldn't be more happy about that. I finished reading the book with a huge smile on my face and I had to go back and re-read some passages that I loved so much. When I said that the book was different from the previous ones, it's also because at the end, everything's possible. It can go one way or another, nothing is set. The ending leaves room for many possibilities and it doesn't feel like a cliffhanger, it feels like a promise. If you are a fan of the series, you will LOVE this book, I promise. If you haven't read this series, I advice you start from book 1, if you start with Pale Demon, I'm not sure you will like it much.

Pale Demon is THE book in the series. It's amazing from start to end. It was worth every minute of my time. I don't think I could possibly love it more. There are so many fantastic secondary characters, you are bound to love at least one. What more can I say? I loved it. I can't wait for the next book. MERCI to Kim Harrison for this amazing book. *fangirl mode off*

I give Pale Demon 5 Bookies (if I could i'd give it even more)

I cannot agree less with the point of view many express here that Rachel is an ill drawn, unfinished and unevolving character; yes - Rachel is still loyal, dogged, never say die....yeah - but her WORLD is growing by leaps and bounds, and as it changes she changes. No longer the little girl Ivy takes up for - she's owning her world creations (and that will make more sense to those who've read the book), and getting not only more "family" but more or less her own growing person to be responsible for (in a striking parallell within the book). The book had MUCH less whining in it, and a lot more how to deal in it than any since Kisten's death - almost a new Rachel being born, definitely placing some ongoing relationships into a this is who we are and where we stand while allowing for new growth.

Lots less complaining about Al, etc - and a lot more of - well, what others said, acceptance, and learning - we don't just learn more about Al, Rachel does to. And trust - one thing you have to say, is once her heart or her word is given - nothing changes. That's different from "not learning" not to trust, to expect double crossing, etc. It's a form of personal values - and it's a lot like I am. What would be the point in the books if Rachel just decided to mistrust everyone, to never forgive any mistake and to become totally intolerant and disrespectful of diversity? The point is that that IS Rachel, not that she's not growing. Things are revealed that any sane person would have to evolve to come to terms with, and she does.

Think about the real world folks - Rachel's gone from about a 17 year old to a 25 year old; and she's had a hard life to do it in. When I think about her stealing a fish....to doing some of the things she's doing now, I can barely remember that person. When I think about her heaving up against the wall smelling Ivy and Ivy smelling her, I can't believe the peace that's come.

I think her growth is still faster than that of a real life person maturing from 20 to say, 40? I certainly didn't let my bad decisions influence my next bad decision until I was well over the age of 35!

Fab book! But, I'm totally not believing the ending is any sort of "solution" for her, too bad it'll take so long to find out what's next on the adventure highway!

Love the books by Kim Harrison. She built a fun world for Rachel Morgan to have fun, live and work. This is Book 9 in the series and while you don't need to read all the books to have fun in the story told within, it does help to have read the books in order to understand the characters. If you don't have the knowledge of the other books the characters can come off one-dimensional and a little off putting. While I found the book a steady read, some people can read it fast or slow depending on your pace of reading.

This is now my new favorite in the entire series and I think probably the best book in the Hollows series, period. A couple of the later offerings were good but not great, but Harrison is back on top of her game here.

The novel begins innocently enough, or as innocent as any day in the life of Rachael Morgan can be. Rachael needs to go to the west coast to defend herself to the Coven of Moral Standards against charges of being a black witch. Enter Trent Kalamak. He also needs to head to the west coast but for reasons he's not ready to share with anybody. He just has 'something he has to get back..something very important'. Cryptic yes, but when has Trent ever been completely forthcoming with Rachael or anybody else for that matter? Who's along for the ride? Rachael, Jenks, Ivy, Trent and of course Peirce who's looking to actually get a seat on the coven.

As you can imagine, nothing is normal when you have a witch (black witch? White witch? quasi demon?), a living vampire, an elf and a pixie driving a thousand plus miles across the country. But that's what we like about the Hollows isn't it?

This book is just great fun from the very first word to the very last. Rachael is growing up, gone is all the tension between she and Ivy (for the most part) and we get more insight into what makes Trent tick.

With great character moments, lots of action, snappy dialogue and a healthy dose of Demons and the ever after this is easily my favorite and probably the best novel in the series. I've seen some reviews of the series in general where people didn't think the books 'got to the point' quick enough: too much of the day-in-the-life of sort of story telling. I've never had a problem with that because it's always been entertaining but this book hits the ground running and gets right to the point QUICK.

Fans of the series should enjoy this one a lot, and people who may have been turned off at some point should give it another go with this one. I like the direction the series is going and I'm looking forward to the next installment!

Ug I waited too long to write this review!!

Anyway.... I freaking loved this book it was AH-MAZE-ING. This series has been a real challenge for me the 1st book and maybe a couple of books in the middle were very difficult for me to get through, I didn't love them and I almost gave up.

Actually if it were not for my goodreads friends coaching me through I would have. But I am so Glad I didn't!!! Because Pale Demon rocked the house and set the roof on fire and all that jazz. Short and sweet review....

Read the series it's worth it to get to this book!

Recommended for Adults

Rating 5 stars!
To see this review the way it is meant to be seen go to my blog shareAread dot com.

Way back in 2004, an unknown author came out with a sort-of urban fantasy called Dead Witch Walking, about an earth witch (a "white" witch, that is) sort-of private detective named Rachel Morgan and her partners, Ivy Tamwood (a "living vampire," and Jenks (a six-inch-high pixie, complete with wings and dust, and thoroughly deadly). Ordinarily, I wouldn't be caught dead consorting with witchcraft/vampire novels with a strong romance flavor to them, but that one was different, even though the awkwardness of the prose often made me wince. Now, seven years, nine novels, and 3,000-plus pages later, Harrison's every book is on the Best Sellers list and she has a dozen imitators. The writing is much smoother (usually), the characters have terrific depth and dimensions, and the plotting is so complex you may want to take notes. Because it's all really one long narrative, each volume picking up where the last one left off, and with very little of the "here's what happened earlier" that one expects of a sequel. (So don't even think of starting anywhere but at the beginning.) This time, Rachel, who has been consorting with demons (especially Al, a not especially important resident of the ever-after and always in financial difficulties) and learning black magic, and had managed to get herself shunned by the Coven, which is sort of the governing body of witches, is on a road trip from her home in Cincinnati to the annual convention in San Francisco where she has to plead her case to keep from being imprisoned, or worse. At the same time, her longtime nemesis-love interest, Trent Kalamack, who is as Big Deal among the few remaining elves in the world, also has to get to the west coast on his own quest, so the two of them reluctantly join forces -- sort of. Rachel can do earth magic (her birth right) and demon magic (by study and because she has unusual genes, thanks to Trent's father), but Trent himself does elfin "wild magic," and that affects everyone. I said it was complicated. Harrison has definitely become one of a small number of authors whose newest books I grab automatically without even looking at the reviews. (The others being people like Tim Powers, Bill Gibson, and Neal Stephenson -- and that's good company.)

But I have to say, she still drops occasional boners, like when someone is feeling nauseous, "her gore rose." Um, no, Ms. Harrison, the word is "gorge." And she's too much in love with certain words and constructions, especially "from" -- "the words exited from her lips." And she seems to have an aversion to simple, straight declarative sentences. It's the sort of thing one expects to see from a college sophomore in her first creative writing class. Someone please assign this lady a copyeditor!

An elf, a witch, avamp, and a pixie walk into a restaurant. No this isn't a joke, it's Pale Damon, the ninth book in Kim Harrison's Hollows' Series. Rachel Morgan, shunned witch and paranormal bounty hunter, is on the road-trip from hell with her business partners Jenks and Ivy along with everyone's favorite sexy elf Trent Kalamack.

Rachel had so much to overcome in this book. She's a shunned witch with very little chance of making it through this road-trip alive. She's making smarter choices, and finally tapping more into her demonic sidee. I was happy to see that she is starting to see that her demonic nature isn't always a bad thing, as long as she used her powers for good purposes.

As in every Hollows book, Rachel love life is in shambles! It seems like the only person Rachel didn't kiss/make-out with was Jenks, and I'm pretty sure that if he had been big enough she might have tried. All of these possible love matches, and she can't find love again (R.I.P Kisten). My heart breaks for her! However, I was a little unsettled by Rachel's lack of feelings towards Pierce in the first half of this book. It was almost like he didn't exist. I love Rachel and Ivy's bittersweet `good-bye' scene. It was so heart wrenching and full of tightly held emotions. It brought me to tears. I have to admit, that at times in this series I have wanted Ivy and Rachel to be together.

As much as have fantasized about Rachel and Trent together, I shocked at how I loved their dream/reality make-out scene. I never thought I'd see the day that Trent cared about someone other then himself. He was the real stand-out character in this book for me. His character grew by leaps and bounds. He was not only able to work his way into Rachel's life, but I believe he has gained Jenks' trust. Plus, who would have guessed that Trent would be a father!!! I'm not going to lie, but for a minute I may have pictured Trent, Rachel and the baby as a happy little family.

I had two minor problems with this book. First, I felt that Pierce was ignored for the most part of the beginning of this book. I really loved the relationship blossoming between Pierce and Rachel in the previous book, and I was let down by his absence. Once he was brought back into the story, I felt that he was overlooked. Second, I was also annoyed at the way Rachel reacted to him. She had already taken herself out of the relationship mentally before it really even had a chance. Very sad!

I absolutely adore Marguerite Gavin's narrations of The Hollow's series. Hearing her narration Pale Demon felt like going home again. She is The Hollows to me. Even when I read this series, I can almost her reading the story to me. She does such an amazing job narrating the many Hollows characters that span different cultural backgrounds and eras. Her voice really draws you into the story with her emotional narration.

I believe that Kim Harrison stated on her blog, that this book is her favorite of the series so far, and I whole-hardheartedly agree. This book was not just a road trip, but story filled with personal growth, friendships forged, and trust cemented. If you are a fan of this genre and haven't yet picked up The Hollow's series, run right out and pick it up now!

Best installment yet!

"Pale Demon" is the ninth installment in the Hollows series by the amazing, Kim Harrison.
If your a fan of The Hollows series already, then this was a must read for you. If your like me, then you were begging for this installment since you finished "BMS" and of course after reading this I can happily say, it's my favorite of the series. Yes, there were more emotionally written installments in this series, but this was just too good to be true. Only bad thing is, the next one won't be out for another year. *Pulls hair out waiting!*

I don't want to give any major spoilers, but I have to say, I loved the interaction between Rachel and Trent.
Trent was always a favorite of mine, but not as much as he is now. Trent opens up, yeah, I know..sounds too good to be true, right? But he honestly does grow as a character and we see a whole new side of him. It's definitely exciting.

Al is my favorite as always. Although he's the "bad guy", he's my favorite for Rachel. He's right for her, in a weird, sick kind of way. If your also a fan of Al, then this novel is a slam dunk for you. He isn't in the beginning as much as I'd like, but he comes through from the middle to end strong.

Jenks. Jenks. Jenks. Am I ever glad he's still going strong. I don't know what I'd do without him in this series. He's what makes this series what it is. "Pale Demon" shows him trying to grow without Malida. He's adjusting, although it isn't easy for him. He misses his wife, but he's trying to move on with his life. But Jenks is Jenks and he still makes you laugh with his quirky sayings. His loyalty is admirable, he truly is a great character. One of the best.

Ivy has grown immensely in this installment. I never thought I'd see the day of how much Ivy has matured as a vampire. Her happiness is something we've never seen, and I like seeing it.
Rachel is the same old Rachel. Yes, she's grown, but she still makes Rachel mistakes. Though, that's why we love her -lol. I love Rachel, she's one of my favorite female characters. She's smart, pretty, funny and can kick major butt. There's no lack of butt kicking in this novel, that's for sure.

Over all I'd rate this novel a 10 out of 5! (Yes, I know impossible, but it really was that good!) It was non-stop action and was full of twists. I had a hard time putting it down to eat. It was one for the shelves, and worth every penny.

This has to be one of the best books in the Hollows series. We got some questions answered, learned more about the Ever After, and Rachel's relationship with AL and the demon collective. Her interactions with Al are always funny. I was also glad a different side of Trent was shown, but it wasn't until more than half way through the book that I finally decided Trent wasn't a total dumba** although he did some really stupid stuff. Rachel is finally getting in touch with her demon side and found it wasn't as horrible as she thought it would be. I was really interested in knowing more about Trent & Rachel's relationship and was happy with the result. I was hoping for a kiss and I got it. I'm not sure if this will stick, (we know how fickle Rachel is) but it's a nice possibility.I can't wait for the next installment....another year....*sigh.

Rachel repeatedly mentions wanting to smack Trent. I felt Rachel could use a good smack herself. She was so immature, self-righteous, whiny and plain dumb sometimes. This character has regressed. Rachel has always been a bit of a flawed character with a great heart. But after book 4 she has becoming progressively unlikeable and confusing. I keep reading for the Hollows world, Jenks and Ivy. I liked that some of the truth about female demons was revealed. And I like the story of the Pale Demon. If it were written without Rachel I would give this book 5 stars.

What do you do when you're 8 books into a series and you need to shake up the character dynamics a bit?

You take all of your main characters and shove them into a Buick and make them drive cross-country in three days.

Harrison could have written an entire book just about that road trip. Friendships and alliances are tested, and new alliances are formed. Along the way they're challenged by elves, pixies, and one particularly nasty demon. But some of the most interesting things happen once they reach their destination.

Not only are the interpersonal dynamics in flux, but Rachel also changes a lot. She's forced to look very hard at herself and make some decisions, once and for all, about what it means to be a white witch or a black witch. And the result of it all could be a sea change for the series

I am still in love with this series. I've enjoyed how Rachel has grown and matured, even if she still slips into old behaviors from time to time. Trent is a particularly intriguing character in this book, though I did guess his big secret almost immediately. He could have easily been written off as bit player early in the series, but instead he's more important than ever. The one big criticism I do have has to do with his quest. I understand that the point of view the book is written in doesn't allow us to go on the quest with Trent without Rachel going along, but there were still things about it that bugged me. Like, how in the heck did they get back to San Francisco in that amount of time? Ah well.

Harrison has left us at a very interesting crossroads in The Hollows, and I can't wait to see what comes next.

This is the 9th book in the Hollows series by Harrison. Last I heard Harrison is contracted for twelve books in this series. I got an advanced copy of this book both from Librarything's Early Reviewer program and an e-book copy from netgalley(dot)com. I have to admit I wasn't big on the previous two books in this series so I was a bit worried about where this book would take the series. Well, I shouldn't have worried! This was an absolutely excellent book in the series.

Rachel has cut a deal with the Coven, if she comes before them and apologizes for using black magic then her shunning will be revoked. Only Trent has other ideas. Trent is going on an elf quest of sorts and wants Rachel to help get him to the west coast since she is already going there for her trial. Rachel is reluctant to agree but after the Coven prevents her from flying it looks like a road trip with Trent might be her only option. So...it's time for a crazy road trip. What happens when you get Ivy, Jenks, Rachel, and Trent in a car together...well lots of crazy stuff of course! Will Rachel's shunning be revoked? Exactly what is Trent up to? Will the fact that all witches are just stunted demons finally be revealed?

This was an absolutely wonderful book. We finally have our old Rachel back. I was not impressed with the 7th (White Witch, Black Curse) and 8th (Black Magic Sanction) books in this series and was worried that the series was going to get worse. Well it didn't it got better. There was a lot of the things I love about this series in this book and none of the stuff that was annoying me.

Finally we are back to the main plot (no strange side stories about banshees) and Rachel is dealing with her shunning and with the realization that all witches are demons. We get to learn a lot more about Trent in this book and that is a wonderful thing. He has always been a mysterious character and you learn more about him and his past than ever before. You also get to learn a lot more about Rachel's demon tutor Al; some awesome things are revealed about the Everafter and the demons who dwell there.

Gone is the whiny, indecisive Rachel that plagued the previous two books. The Rachel in this book is the Rachel of old, but smarter. She can kick-butt (and does quite often in this book), she is focused, smart, and not ashamed of who she is. It was great to see Rachel finally find her feet in this book and get back to the things that mattered.

I was also relieved that Ivy and Rachel don't dwell on their relationship (I feel like that has been hashed and re-hashed in this series). They work great as a team and have learned how to keep things in balance. This book feels like the series is on the edge of some major changes for all of the characters. Things are changing with how the characters interact and what we know about them.

The ending wraps up the main storyline well, but still leaves you yearning to read more...just like the earlier books did. This book was full of all of my favorite characters and lots of action; it was very hard to put down and very well written.

Overall an absolutely stellar addition to this series. If you thought the previous couple books in the series were lackluster, fear not, this book redeems the series. All of our favorite characters are back, Rachel is ready to deal with her life again like a big girl, and we get to learn a lot more about Trent and Al. Loved it and cannot wait to read the next book in the series.

I have always loved this series, though book 7 was my least favorite. I have to concur with the other reviewers, this may be the best yet. It was action packed, and the character development was quite good. It is hard to review without spoiling so be warned minor spoilers ahead.......

So glad there was a resolution to Ivy and Rachel's relationship. The little details regarding Matalina's death and how Jenks is dealing with it was great. He forgets to cut his hair and needs help picking out decor colors? Kinda heartbreaking, in a real way. Loved Trent-he and Rachel are so guarded with one another that it made for a very interesting read to see them learn the importance of trust. Thank you author for removing Pierce, even if it is temporary. I have no reason for it, but he has irritated the heck out of me. The scenes in the ever after were fascinating. I enjoy seeing how they live when they aren't trying to break a circle and kill the summoner.

The novel is on the short side-that is a good thing. I appreciate good editing, and there is really no extraneous material here. Other authors could learn from Kim Harrison.

At the end of Black Magic Sanction I was moderately satisfied with the way the coven/Oliver situation was handled. I eagerly anticipated PALE DEMON & the trial because, let's be honest. It's time for Oliver & Co. to "get theirs". Past time. But the trial was a joke (no joy there), Rachel is still dirt under everyone's feet (getting a little old) and off to the EverAfter she goes. Rachel accepts she's a demon and a dang good one at that. OK, fine. But wait! She's back to save the world again. And Oliver still is the same jerk as always. The scene in the van with Rachel, Vivian, Oliver & Pierce made me soooooo happy. The driver vamped out, said the coven is in huge trouble, kudos to Rachel. (YES!!! fist pump! finally!)
Ummm, not really. When the bells didn't ring I was just done & over it. Actually put the book away for a few days. Finally finished it and found the ending to be,,,,, odd. The whole demon yes/no deal & Trent's involvement (what's up with that?) just left me feeling empty. I have loved the series and have read all 9 books over the past 3 months but I'm ready for Rachel, Jenks, & Ivy to finally win one!

Kim Harrison has yet to disappoint me with her Rachel Morgan series. "Pale Demon" follows Rachel and her crew plus one on a cross-country mission to accomplish 3 things: attend her brother's wedding, help Trent recover an item from his ex-fiance, and remove the shunning placed on her for dealing in black magic. After a slower-moving first chapter, the pace of the book quickens as the group heads out on their journey. As with all Rachel stories, relationships are at the forefront. We see Al, Newt, Pierce and Trent forge deeper relationships with Rachel. The witch's council is politics as usual with a few voices of reason. Some still cling to the belief that everything is black and white even though we all know reality is mostly gray. The big nasty is something only Rachel can put down. And the end of the novel brings a brief respite for Rachel although I'm sure life will change once again with the next novel.

Kudos for Harrison to continue to develop this series without going off the deep end like Laurell Hamilton did with the Anita Blake novels.

Usually when a series has this many books it ends up repetitive and starts to get boring. Too many authors have ended up this way, and while I don't mind some repetitive themes (if they fit in with the bigger picture) there's no point in buying the same book over and over.
That being said, Kim Harrison has never disappointed with new and fresh material at every turn. This is another masterpiece and I hope she continues this series. Every book has a new level of 'edge of your seat' intensity and she always brings it on!

Ms. Harrison does it again! I've been reading The Hollows books since #2 came out. She delivers again as if we had hardly left the Hollows two years ago! Or so it seems. I'm a 100 pages in and already Ms. Morgan has managed to flatten a MAJOR landmark in St. Louis. Assasins are nothing. But being in League with an Elf. Geez! I am a little exhausted as I picked up the latest entry "Pale Demon." I am happy for the action and obviously the story arc of the Hollows continues. I realize that Hardbacks come out about every two years as their production cycles are very long. I would like to have Vampiric Charms to have some good luck and times. And truly, Jenks provides that to the story. Giving us as much normalcy with the Pixies really is a good and nice foil to the insanity of the rest of the plot. Cause pull on your trainers, there are no Weres this time, but there is 'Legolas' running up the backside of our foursome as they head to the West Coast!

A witch, an elf and a pixy decide to make a road trip. No, this is not the beginning of a lame joke but the beginning of a great book. And I totally loved it!

In order to have her shunning rescinded and to gain her life back, Rachel has to attend the annual witch convention in San Francisco and defend herself for using black magic. But as she soon finds out, that's not as easy as it looks. The Coven doesn't hesitate to use all means necessary to stop her. After she finds herself on the no-fly list, Rachel is forced to accept Trent's offer to ride with him through the continent. Trent has 3 days to complete a mysterious elf quest that he doesn't wanna speak of and needs Rachel to protect him. And so the journey begins.

Chased by elven assassins trying to stop Trent and by the Coven trying to stop Rachel, every mile becomes a fight for their lives. As if the trail of dead bodies, wrecked cars and destroyed national monuments left behind was not enough, something unimaginable happens - a demon able to walk in the sun. And this time it was not Rachel who releases him, but Trent himself.

Ku'Sox was an ancient attempt of the demons to fight the elves. Created by genetic manipulation and demon magic, he had become so dangerous for every race that the demons were forced to use all their collective sources to stop him. And now he is released again and destroying everything.

I loved this book. It was the perfect combination of action-packed scenes and character development. Rachel starts to see the other side of Trent. In fact she is attracted to him more and more. Could he really be more than the politician, more than the powerful biodrug lord, more than a man not hesitating to kill in order to gain what he wants? Dare she trust him with her life? Risk everything - her home, her friends, her entire existence if she chooses wrong? And in the end, her final fate lays in his hands. But this time, nothing will be the same again.

This book was a roller coaster, not giving us a moment to catch our breathe. We see Rachel fighting the wild, dangerous and uncontrollable elven magic in order to save Trent's life, trying to clear her name in the process and yet failing because of a person close to her and in the end she is forced not only to accept her true origin but fight hard to prove it. Rachel finally sees that nothing is black or white, in fact it never has been.

I loved that we could see more of the life in the ever-after and especially more about her demon teacher Al. We see his weaknesses and we see his loyalty to Rachel. It might be twisted and wicked, but it is loyalty nonetheless. To my greatest pleasure, Rachel also realizes that she and Pierce can never be together, that he will never accept her for what she really is. I never liked him anyway :-)

In the end, Trent gives Rachel the biggest gift - a possibility to choose her own path, without being forced to any direction. And she did choose. I might not like her choice but she deserved the chance. And knowing her habit of always getting into trouble, I have a feeling that the peace will not last long :-) And that's what we all love about this serie!

[...]

I picked up this series on a whim late in 2009 and had a rough time with the writing style of Dead Witch Walking, but I am soo happy I stuck with it! This book was just fantastic. I did get a little scared because I felt like a lot of loose ends were being tied up, but there's plenty of ammo left for future books. It was a whirlwind of an adventure and might just be my favorite book in the series thus far. I loved the character development and was dying to see more Trent and more Al since Book 8. Pale Demon did not disapppoint. I was also happy to see how things panned out between her and Pierce. Not a Pierce fan, but he's wonderful this time around as a not-so prominent supporting character.
Rachael is so well drawn that she has become one of my all-time favorite heroines. It was un-put-downable and I didn't want it to end. I can't wait to see what's coming next for Rachael and her friends and "frenemys" in the future! A must read!!!

Summary:
Rachel must travel to the West Coast to try to get her shunning removed. Trent needs her to go with him, for reasons he won't explain. Because Rachel can't travel on a plane, she has to go with Trent.

Review:
The story was solid. Taking Rachel and co. out of Cincinnati gave the book a slightly different feel. Rachel seemed to grow into a more confident character, whereas Ivy and Jenks fell into the background. The scene between Rachel and Ivy in the hotel was slightly odd, yet it made sense. The story was mainly about Trent and Rachel, though. Their connection seems stronger than ever.

The overall book felt well-planned. For those who want to see a lot of Ivy, though, they will be disappointed.

is the year long wait until we get the next installment. With so many plot twists and turns, it really is a LONG time to wait and part of me wanted to pick up the previous book to skim to get back into the series and remember where we left off. That's what slowed down the start for me until it got moving, mainly once they hit the road. As someone who has always loved any interaction Rachel had with Trent OR Al, this book has it in spades. Excellent effort by Ms. Harrison, now back to waiting another year.

I have read all of the Rachel Morgan books and enjoyed them, however I've been underwhelmed with the last couple entries in the series. I wasn't a great fan of Pierce and still felt sad about poor Kisten. However, this book was such a pleasure to read; I was up until three in the morning finishing it. I will preface this by saying that I have a soft spot for Trent and love the idea of him and Rachel together.
In order to get her shunning removed Rachel needs to go to San Francisco to meet with the coven, Ivy and Jenks are obviously joining her on the trip. Trent comes to her asking for her assistance in getting him across the county (to Seattle) for a secret "elf quest". A variety of problems end with the gang having a cross-country road trip. There is a lot of exciting action, more than enough to keep the reader turning the page, but perhaps even more importantly, there is a lot of character development. Trent and Jenks bond, as elves and pixies are wont to do; Rachel rethinks her opinion of Trent (multiple times); Rachel and Al's relationship evolves, and there is a resolution for Ivy and Rachel. It is a lot to put into one book and Harrison accomplishes it with wit and heart.
As I said, I enjoyed the last book but wasn't really eagerly awaiting this one; I did download it to my iPad so that I could read it during my long day of travel, but wasn't expecting to adore it the way I did the earlier novels. However, the second I finished reading the final words of the book I wanted the next one. Pale Demon feels a bit like an end and beginning: a lot has been resolved, but many new problems/ opportunities have presented themselves. Rachel's label as a demoness, whether or not (or how) she wishes to grow into that label; a possible (dare I hope, probable?) new romance with Trent; Ivy's newfound confidence in her ability to find happiness; Bis' new relationship with Rachel . . . There are more threads but I don't want to ruin any of the excitement for the reader.
I would recommend having read the rest of the series as Harrison alludes to many incidents from previous novels, but if this is your first foray into her writing I'd imagine you'll run out to buy the rest of the series upon finishing this book.

I adore this series. As an avid reader of the paranormal genre I must say she is one of my favorites. The first time I read one of her books I immediately got hooked. This book is no exception. I stayed up late reading, because I just couldn't put it down.

If you haven't given this series a shot(which I don't know why you wouldn't have seeing as this is book 9) it is a must read. Rachel is so eccentric and I love her for it. It seems lately that everyone is using cookie cutter characters, and Kim's has so much life. From Tinks who is the lively fairy to Ivy who is the brooding living vampire to Trent who is an elf all about appearances.

I don't want to spoil anything for someone who hasn't read this book yet but trust me it's worth it. Has the right amount of action and retribution to keep it going.

I think the title of my review says it all! The best of the whole series so far. There's action, as always, but there's also a lot of development in Rachael's relationships, in her perception of herself and her place in the magical community. There are some unexpected developments in her love life. And if you thought the series would start getting boring after so many books - think again! This book left me virtually titillated with anticipation of things to come. Way to go, Ms. Harrison!

To tell the truth, I stopped pre-ordering these books a couple back, like #7, because they just weren't all that good. I thought Rachel was whiny and annoying, the action was choppy and unsatisfying, and all the interesting characters died or were absent. The first few in the series were great, but I really thought the author had lost her creative edge towards the middle. But #9 was worth slogging through the mediocre books. This book has the heroine actually being bold and smart, there is some worthwhile romance blossoming, there is a change of scenery, and the character development is 110%. If you, like me, were doubting Ms. Harrison's ability to deliver on the promise of the first books, doubt no longer. Book #10 will be back on my pre-order list!

I totally enjoyed this installment after being so disappointed with the last book. She was just to wishy washy, and couldn't seem to get a bearing on her characters. This book is back on track. She finally owns up to what she is, and Trent's character is finally coming clear. I just have to say, if you were getting discouraged, by the last book, then you must read this one. I'm on to "A Perfect Blood", and hope she keeps up the good work.

If you have been following The Hollows series, like I have, you will not be disappointed by this new installment! It has all of our favorite characters, a great back drop, excellent dialogue, and a solid plot. There is only one loose string, having to do with Rachel's mother, but I don't want to give anything away (you'll know what I'm talking about after you read it), but it doesn't interfere with the story in general. It doesn't have any of the secondary characters in it (David, her IS friends, Ceri), but you can't expect all of them to be included in a book that isn't focused on them this time around. It is fast paced, holds a lot of action mixed in with our favorite pixy/witch/vampire humor, and delivers an ending that ties some things together, but leaves the reader counting down the days until the next book! I liked how even though this is the most recent book I can see the evolution of the characters and they haven't lost their charm. I felt this book allowed me to see a deeper side of the characters, with more intimate dialogue and relateable emotions (even though I'm not a witch or vampire!). I think this blows the last book out of the water and sets up for an excellent follow-up, it also made me want to reread the entire series, I felt like it reignited my passion for the series. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

After eight books of raw action and a multitude of bad choices, Rachel is finally growing into a woman who can understand herself and the strengths and weakness of those she loves. This book finally ties up most of the loose ends regarding the relationships between Mrs. Harrisons core cast. It will leave the reader wondering at the end how can 1 things get better and 2 where do we go from here.

SPOILER...I remember sighing and getting warm and fuzzy after every close encounter between Trent and Rachel. In this installment of the series, the two star players get a look at how far they have literally come (together) and how if either's back is to wall there is no one they need more than each other. The steamy kiss leaves little to be desired...besides a deserted hospital room:)

I like how in this authors world everything is somehow related and meaningful. I personally can't wait to see how things work out, but alas, I can only read as fast as the author and publisher can work on bring another chapter in Rachel's life to life.

Thank you Kim Harrison...in this book's final moments you have given me a bright spot to go back to in this long wait for next year's book 10!

I picked up this series on a whim late in 2009 and had a rough time with the writing style of Dead Witch Walking, but I am soo happy I stuck with it! This book was just fantastic. I did get a little scared because I felt like a lot of loose ends were being tied up, but there's plenty of ammo left for future books. It was a whirlwind of an adventure and might just be my favorite book in the series thus far. I loved the character development and was dying to see more Trent and more Al since Book 8. Pale Demon did not disapppoint. I was also happy to see how things panned out between her and Pierce. Not a Pierce fan, but he's wonderful this time around as a not-so prominent supporting character.
Rachael is so well drawn that she has become one of my all-time favorite heroines. It was un-put-downable and I didn't want it to end. I can't wait to see what's coming next for Rachael and her friends and "frenemys" in the future! A must read!!!

Sadly Kim Harrison's books have dropped out of my ten favorite series to read. The latest book is by far better than her last couple of novels, but no where near the tighter, focused reads of the first few of the series. To be honest the only reason I still read is that those first four books charmed me enough that I want to see what happens to the characters we met in them. I've lost a lot of respect for the lead, Rachel Morgan, since the fourth book, and nothing in the new one has regained it. Rachel is fun in many ways, but so often she's... well... an idiot.

Jenks is a tour de force though, the one character and sub lead that hasn't diminished in any way, and has actually grown and become a better more lead worthy character. I wouldn't mind seeing a Jenks focused series, sans Rachel, like the short story we saw of him in a recent anthology.

Ivy... wow what can I say about her? My total favorite in the first blush of the series, she's been watered down to a pathetic shadow of her former dangerous and fatally attractive self. She gets the "it's not you, it's me." speech from Rachel and is hardly more than furniture in the back ground for this novel. We know she's severely tortured by a demon in this novel only from a throw away line by said demon. She's become THAT unimportant to the series. For Ivy fans, this book is the worst out of the entire series, and not just for the weakness of her presence in the Rachel Morgan universe.

But while one door closes, another opens, Trent fans may have a mixed bag of reactions. Happies for Trent moving to the for ground as Rachel's most likely to shack up with and make lil demon/elf hybrid babies. Not so happies is he's had to take a hit on his intelligence points to be the character in the latest novel and do some of the most heinously stupid, or aware of the stupid but sociopathically not caring about the consequences actions he does here. Yes Trent, uber suave and so NOT stupid in the early books, hits this one with the bright idea of... well that would be a spoiler so not giving details other than it's glaringly stupid for one who supposedly has a bias against black magic and knows just how dangerous dealing with demons can be. gah...

High Points, the Ever After and coming to terms with her demon heritage. More of the witch chick (sorry I forget her name) who bounty hunted Rachel for the council in previous book. From Rachel's reactions to her, she might be the new "girlfriend" to take Ivy's place as the subtle lesbian interest for a "not wired that way" hetero female lead. She is an interesting character, but a poor trade off for the dark intensity of Ivy. There is plenty of humor, and the plot is much better than most recent efforts. Low points, as bad as the previous couple of books were, that isn't saying much. Compared to other series in the same genre, the front character seems to be devolving, while other series leads are growing up and becoming stronger. After the strong reads of the first four books, I'm not sure where the great series that wow'd me back then has gone. It's still a good B list read though. Strong and likeable characterization and interplay between the people in the book save it from the overall plot line pitfalls.

Summary:
Rachel must travel to the West Coast to try to get her shunning removed. Trent needs her to go with him, for reasons he won't explain. Because Rachel can't travel on a plane, she has to go with Trent.

Review:
The story was solid. Taking Rachel and co. out of Cincinnati gave the book a slightly different feel. Rachel seemed to grow into a more confident character, whereas Ivy and Jenks fell into the background. The scene between Rachel and Ivy in the hotel was slightly odd, yet it made sense. The story was mainly about Trent and Rachel, though. Their connection seems stronger than ever.

The overall book felt well-planned. For those who want to see a lot of Ivy, though, they will be disappointed.

is the year long wait until we get the next installment. With so many plot twists and turns, it really is a LONG time to wait and part of me wanted to pick up the previous book to skim to get back into the series and remember where we left off. That's what slowed down the start for me until it got moving, mainly once they hit the road. As someone who has always loved any interaction Rachel had with Trent OR Al, this book has it in spades. Excellent effort by Ms. Harrison, now back to waiting another year.

I have read all of the Rachel Morgan books and enjoyed them, however I've been underwhelmed with the last couple entries in the series. I wasn't a great fan of Pierce and still felt sad about poor Kisten. However, this book was such a pleasure to read; I was up until three in the morning finishing it. I will preface this by saying that I have a soft spot for Trent and love the idea of him and Rachel together.
In order to get her shunning removed Rachel needs to go to San Francisco to meet with the coven, Ivy and Jenks are obviously joining her on the trip. Trent comes to her asking for her assistance in getting him across the county (to Seattle) for a secret "elf quest". A variety of problems end with the gang having a cross-country road trip. There is a lot of exciting action, more than enough to keep the reader turning the page, but perhaps even more importantly, there is a lot of character development. Trent and Jenks bond, as elves and pixies are wont to do; Rachel rethinks her opinion of Trent (multiple times); Rachel and Al's relationship evolves, and there is a resolution for Ivy and Rachel. It is a lot to put into one book and Harrison accomplishes it with wit and heart.
As I said, I enjoyed the last book but wasn't really eagerly awaiting this one; I did download it to my iPad so that I could read it during my long day of travel, but wasn't expecting to adore it the way I did the earlier novels. However, the second I finished reading the final words of the book I wanted the next one. Pale Demon feels a bit like an end and beginning: a lot has been resolved, but many new problems/ opportunities have presented themselves. Rachel's label as a demoness, whether or not (or how) she wishes to grow into that label; a possible (dare I hope, probable?) new romance with Trent; Ivy's newfound confidence in her ability to find happiness; Bis' new relationship with Rachel . . . There are more threads but I don't want to ruin any of the excitement for the reader.
I would recommend having read the rest of the series as Harrison alludes to many incidents from previous novels, but if this is your first foray into her writing I'd imagine you'll run out to buy the rest of the series upon finishing this book.

I adore this series. As an avid reader of the paranormal genre I must say she is one of my favorites. The first time I read one of her books I immediately got hooked. This book is no exception. I stayed up late reading, because I just couldn't put it down.

If you haven't given this series a shot(which I don't know why you wouldn't have seeing as this is book 9) it is a must read. Rachel is so eccentric and I love her for it. It seems lately that everyone is using cookie cutter characters, and Kim's has so much life. From Tinks who is the lively fairy to Ivy who is the brooding living vampire to Trent who is an elf all about appearances.

I don't want to spoil anything for someone who hasn't read this book yet but trust me it's worth it. Has the right amount of action and retribution to keep it going.

I think the title of my review says it all! The best of the whole series so far. There's action, as always, but there's also a lot of development in Rachael's relationships, in her perception of herself and her place in the magical community. There are some unexpected developments in her love life. And if you thought the series would start getting boring after so many books - think again! This book left me virtually titillated with anticipation of things to come. Way to go, Ms. Harrison!

To tell the truth, I stopped pre-ordering these books a couple back, like #7, because they just weren't all that good. I thought Rachel was whiny and annoying, the action was choppy and unsatisfying, and all the interesting characters died or were absent. The first few in the series were great, but I really thought the author had lost her creative edge towards the middle. But #9 was worth slogging through the mediocre books. This book has the heroine actually being bold and smart, there is some worthwhile romance blossoming, there is a change of scenery, and the character development is 110%. If you, like me, were doubting Ms. Harrison's ability to deliver on the promise of the first books, doubt no longer. Book #10 will be back on my pre-order list!

I totally enjoyed this installment after being so disappointed with the last book. She was just to wishy washy, and couldn't seem to get a bearing on her characters. This book is back on track. She finally owns up to what she is, and Trent's character is finally coming clear. I just have to say, if you were getting discouraged, by the last book, then you must read this one. I'm on to "A Perfect Blood", and hope she keeps up the good work.

If you have been following The Hollows series, like I have, you will not be disappointed by this new installment! It has all of our favorite characters, a great back drop, excellent dialogue, and a solid plot. There is only one loose string, having to do with Rachel's mother, but I don't want to give anything away (you'll know what I'm talking about after you read it), but it doesn't interfere with the story in general. It doesn't have any of the secondary characters in it (David, her IS friends, Ceri), but you can't expect all of them to be included in a book that isn't focused on them this time around. It is fast paced, holds a lot of action mixed in with our favorite pixy/witch/vampire humor, and delivers an ending that ties some things together, but leaves the reader counting down the days until the next book! I liked how even though this is the most recent book I can see the evolution of the characters and they haven't lost their charm. I felt this book allowed me to see a deeper side of the characters, with more intimate dialogue and relateable emotions (even though I'm not a witch or vampire!). I think this blows the last book out of the water and sets up for an excellent follow-up, it also made me want to reread the entire series, I felt like it reignited my passion for the series. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

After eight books of raw action and a multitude of bad choices, Rachel is finally growing into a woman who can understand herself and the strengths and weakness of those she loves. This book finally ties up most of the loose ends regarding the relationships between Mrs. Harrisons core cast. It will leave the reader wondering at the end how can 1 things get better and 2 where do we go from here.

SPOILER...I remember sighing and getting warm and fuzzy after every close encounter between Trent and Rachel. In this installment of the series, the two star players get a look at how far they have literally come (together) and how if either's back is to wall there is no one they need more than each other. The steamy kiss leaves little to be desired...besides a deserted hospital room:)

I like how in this authors world everything is somehow related and meaningful. I personally can't wait to see how things work out, but alas, I can only read as fast as the author and publisher can work on bring another chapter in Rachel's life to life.

Thank you Kim Harrison...in this book's final moments you have given me a bright spot to go back to in this long wait for next year's book 10!

I love the fact that you can't put the book down, and you can't wait until the next one comes out. The fact that it never stops suprising you, I didn't see part of it coming, throughly enjoyed it when it did. Romance wise so much better than a few of the others, maybe I just don't like Pierce. I think it is hard to balance the attractions and action and this one was perfect! I am looking forward to the next one, I wish it didn't take a year!

If you've been on the fence about the Hollows series, this book will bring you back to the series. I can't say anything without spoiling the book for you, but rest assured- this book was awesome. This has to be one of the best books in the series so far. It doesn't beat out the first book as my favorite Hollows read, but it's up there.

This book finds Rachel trying to find a way to the witch convention in San Francisco, but when no flight will carry her, she has to make her way West with the last person she thought she'd travel with: Trent Kalamack. He too has a reason for heading to the West Coast, but he's not spilling the details. Since the only other option is to not travel & be put to death or go to the ever after with Al (which is almost as bad), Rachel's left with no other options. Stuck on what has the potential to be the worst road trip ever, Rachel & crew (oh yes, Ivy & Jenks are there too) discover that anything that can go wrong, will. Especially when you have to deal with assassins, secrets, & a soul eating demon that can not only walk during the day, but also can come & go as he pleases.

Where to begin? For starters, you'll love that even though not everything is resolved in this book, Harrison does her best to address many of the concerns & questions that fans have been having over the series. I won't state which ones get the most attention, but I opine (as Pierce would put it) that the many people will be satisfied in one way or another.

Also wonderful is the maturing of Rachel. She's still the type of person who is capable of insane feats of magic, but this Rachel is one who no longer sees things (as she puts it) in the "black and white" views as she did at the beginning of the series. This shows in many of her actions in this book & the decisions she makes during the course of her adventures in this book.
This is an awesome book & one that anyone following along with the Hollows series NEEDS to read. Not breeze through in the store or library, but read. This was just sheer awesomeness & I really feel like I can't say enough good things about it. I loved this book.

(ARC provided by NetGalley)

I don't write book reports, I just wanted to express how fantastic this book (and series) is!!! I'm a HUGE fan of Al, and this book has him developing into an even more interesting character. (And I already thought he was the best character besides Rachel.) He's even showing a, dare I say, sweet side?
It's going to be tough waiting another year to get my hands on Book 10. But as Al once said of Rachel, "you're worth the wait." Thank you, Kim Harrison!!!!

Picked up this book at the local book store because I kinda knew the author. I didn't know it was a series till I looked to see if there was another one. Figured out there are eight other books and I just read book nine. Going back to start at the beginning and hope I forget what was in book nine by the time I get to it again. But no matter it was so good I will read it again. Loved the story and the sarcasim through out the book. Loved it.

this book is a great read, though somewhat slow in spots. Faced with the consequences of actions taken in previous books in the series, this book feels like it is setting the tone for the last books in the series.

this is my second time reading this book, but the first time I've also read the short stories that bridge several books in the series. I feel that pausing this book at the appropriate moment (convention) to read "million dollar baby" added to story.

I stumbled across Dead Witch Walking in a grocery store (of all places) and bought it on a whim. Little did I know that it would be the book that would turn me into an urban fantasy reader...

DWW and the several Rachel novels that came after were full of propulsive plotting and fabulous attitude. In the aftermath of Kisten's death, Kim's plots began to feel to me quite overwhelmingly large; enjoyable to read but somehow all over the place. I stuck with the series even as I sometimes wondered why. The recent plot lines where Rachel has started to connect with her Demon abilities have moved the series in the right direction for me as a reader, but I still wrestled with whether I wanted to keep going due to all the side trips to the main plot.

This book, though, whew. I remember the visceral connection I felt with the first book in the series and how I loved Rachel's oddly moral damn everything attitude. In Pale Demon, Rachel is wiser- and sometimes more controlled- but really, once again, in her zone. While I felt the growth of the characters and the series in this book, I was particularly grateful that there was so much movement in the storyline. The plot felt once again focused and the payoff was very real for me as I tried, but could not, put the book down.

Thank you, Kim, for writing such a tightly plotted story. I'll follow Rachel anywhere when she shows where she is going.

I love this series. Every book gets better and better. You get to know the characters and love them. Rachel has to deal with being an official demon, being shunned and fighting off a released demon that was cursed. She gets to know Trent better along for the ride on a cross country track. These are great easy reads.

This series is how I got hooked on Urban Fantasy. Rachel is an amazing blend of a kick-butt, kind-hearted heroine that makes reading fun. This series has the best demon I have ever read. I really liked the book, but had one major gripe. Rachel can be impulsive and get in over her head, but this time she seemed to lack her usual narrow beamed focus. She seemed indecisive and that was just not the character I have come to know and love. I'm sure this is part of a growth curve for the character and I can't wait to see how she turns all her angst into a strength in upcoming stories. Looking forward to next book.

I confess that I had to stick with the first book in the series: the first chapter or so seemed contrived. Adding pixies and leprechauns to the mix were a stretch from the vampires and werewolves that I was accustomed to in the genre, and for a brief moment, it seemed trite. I am very grateful that I continued, for this continues to be the most original and balanced series I have listened to (out of eight or so) in Urban Fantasy. While others have become formulaic, Kim Harrison continues to keep her plots and characters fresh and intriguing. She strikes an intuitive balance between introducing new characters and races (species?) to her novels and bringing back old ones when least expected but most welcome.

I listen to these books via Audible, and Marguerite Gavin has a wonderful way with the characters. (I would buy the one book read by someone else (two books ago?) all over again just to hear her take on it -- while that book was good, the reading was mediocre at best).

I have been saddened to see some characters and plots fall by the wayside (I conjured scenarios that Kistin might not be dead and done for another two books out of desperate hope), but I cannot fault Ms. Harrison for any of them (in stark contrast to other authors who seem to dispose of beloved characters out of whim just to lend a sense of gravity to events at hand -- eg. Charlaine Harris and even J.K. Rowling).

Pale Demon fits perfectly into the progression (I would recommend that the Hallows series deserves to be listened to or read in sequence from the beginning -- even the one not read by Ms. Gavin ;-P), and I will savor each passing day until the next one is released some 48 weeks hence. While not every plot is perfectly turned to my taste, the overwhelming momentum is fresh and exciting, and even worth even the premium cost that audible leverages from its subscribers.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough to fans of urban fantasy, with the sole caveat that the series deserves to be experienced sequentially, and in its entirety.

For those who have been following the series, I feel as though we are getting back to who Rachel really is, and with much less focus on the men in her life (though they are certainly there). The added aspect of the road trip gives us a glimpse into what the rest of the world has really been like since The Turn. I was lucky enough to meet Kim Harrison herself, and she said this was her own favorite book so far. I agree, and its easy to see why.

I might as well just say it. I loved this book. Loved. Loved. Loved this book. I read somewhere that this has been Kim Harrison's favorite book in the Hollows series so far and I can see why. I left feeling exhilarated -like absolutely anything could happen next. That is no small feat for the 9th book in a series; it would be so easy to let things to get stale.

Where do I begin? Well, begrudgingly, I can say I wasn't in love with the beginning of the book. As advertised, Rachel is taking a road trip from Cincinnati to San Francisco. She is going to the annual witches council meeting to get her shunning removed. Instead of her planned flight with Jenks... She ends up driving, in a car that's getting increasingly crowded... with an elf, a pixy, a vampire and two other witches. Rachel is struggling to stay alive as the council tries to get her before she reaches her destination. To complicate matters more, she is babysitting Trent, who is on a mysterious elf quest. And along the way, we meet a genetically engineered day-walking demon, who likes to eat souls and wreak havoc. Nothing Rachel can't handle, right?

For me, the story hit its stride once Rachel faced off with the coven in San Francisco. And frankly, that was sooner than I expected. (I thought the road trip would last the whole book, but it was really more like 1/3 of it.) Her time in the ever-after is captivating. I loved having a peek inside the demon culture. I was enthralled getting to really know Al and Newt. And holy-freaking-cow, there was one scene at Al's place that blew me away. I think I read it four times before I could move on. I won't spoil it, but if you've read the book, you know the part I'm talking about.

We have huge, huge developments surrounding what Rachel is and how she sees herself. We have (yet another) major shift in the relationship between Ivy and Rachel... one that leaves me wondering about their future. We see possibilities and (what appears to be) resolution surrounding Rachel's relationship with Pierce. And there are colossal changes in Rachel's feelings for Al and Trent.

So much happens over the course of this book, when I look back to the beginning it's hard to believe it was all part of the same story. And even though we've "known" some of these characters since Dead Witch Walking, I feel like we're really getting to see inside a few of them for the first time. And I love it. And I absolutely can not wait to see what happens next. I'd give it more than 5 stars if I could.

It's amazing how more books get added to this series and it just keeps getting better! Usually they lose steam by this time and sputter out, but after just finishing this book last night, I can't stop fantasizing about what's going to happen next! Oh Kim, I love you... keep doing exactly what you're doing. You are a literary GENIUS!!!

Get ready for the `Great American Family Road Trip ... full of unhappy people heading west' across the searing landscape from Cincinnati via Las Vegas to San Francisco. Rachael and the gang are off to the annual witches' convention to have her reinstated, and to attend her brother's wedding. Trent has his own mysterious reasons to urgently get to the West Coast. Of course before they even leave Rachael and company are attacked by assassins. Enroute they battle demons (naturally), more assassins and wild pixies. Rachael's battered and bruised and I'm battered and bruised following her story.
There were moments when I cried for her and moments when everything was going to `hell in a hand basket' (literally) and I wished the story would just hurry up and come to any conclusion that I could be happy with.
There are moments of clarity when this is the ass kicking, feisty, foolish, demon brushed, itchy witch is doing her thing, intermittently offset by the vulnerable, forlorn, and broken hearted person that inhabits her heart and head. The real Rachel emerges, battling with those who love her, use her, and fighting her own inner turmoil.
Pale Demon has moments of frustration and confusion, of despair and hope--all reflecting the impossible characters of Rachel and her strange family. As Jenks says to Trent, `You've seen what it's like to be in a family, with all the touchy tempers and irritation that goes on. Now you get to see the other side, where we do stupid stuff for each other just because we like you.'
Despite my moments of irritation with Rachael, I enjoyed Pale Demon. I want to give it 3&1/2 stars

NetGalley ARC

This is the first urban fantasy series I've read where I feel the characters and story lines just keep getting better and better with each book. Normally, I can only get to book 3 or 4 in a series before it all becomes too predictable and boring but not Kim Harrison's series! Well done.

Pale Demon picks up a few months after the events in "Black Magic Sanction" left off... Rachel is to be tried for black magic at the annual witches convention in San Francisco where she has been promised to have her name cleared. Of course, nothing ever goes as planned for Rachel.

In the opening of the book, we find Trent asking Rachel for assistance in a task he won't share any details with her - he simply needs her for security reasons. She refuses but after her own travel plans are interrupted, she agrees to travel by car with him to the west coast. To make this more of the "great American car trip," Ivy and Jenks also go with them. The major story arc for this book is the introduction of the new title character - the pale demon. Unlike other demons, he can exist on this side of the ley lines during the day which means there is no escaping him (other demons are drawn back into the everafter at dawn) especially now that he is furious at being imprisoned for so long (which is why he was unknown to us until now). It will take a demon, or our demon curse kindling witch, to confront the threat he poses to all humanity. But will the witch council allow Rachel the freedom she needs?

Throughout this book, we get to see major growth in the characters. We see Trent as a man when he isn't being a politician/shady business man; we see Jenks dealing with the traumatic events of the last book; we see Ivy becoming content to be in her own skin and Rachel finally making decisions that are more than rash, off-the-cuff reactions to her circumstances. Rachel finally stops rebelling against her life and who she is to open up so many avenues of development for her in future books.

After being a little disappointed in the last few books in this series (mostly due to my perceived lack of growth in Rachel), I have to admit that I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Beyond that, we were able to see everyone as a bit more human (even though they may not be). By far, this is my new favorite of the series.

This is a must read for everyone who has fallowed Rachel's adventures - even if you have become disillusioned with the series in the past. However, this is not the book to begin the series with; start with the first book, "Dead Witch Walking", and enjoy the ride to this book. You will not be disappointed!

I'm not finished with the book yet, but so far it's been non-stop action with all your favorite characters from the series. I would highly recommend this series to anyone who is tired of the same-old same-old urban fantasy. The stories don't devolve into pornography like some other series. Must read.

Honestly this has to be my fav book in the series. Al is starting to treat her with respect. She's getting friendly with Trent Kalminack which I couldn't wait for. I hope they end up together in the end of the series I think they are soooo made for each other. And to find out that Trent's daughter likes Rachel is a bonus. Plus Biz said they're Aura's sound the same, how many coinsidences are needed to show how much these two were made to be together.

Tinks little pink dildo, that's a great read! Wow,wow,wow I just couldn't put the damn book down once I started!
2nd time thru. Fantastic read as always... this one is action packed almost non stop great twists and turns and the end leaves me wanting more.

I won't rehash the storyline since others have reviewed it so well before me. I finished reading Pale Demon in one day and the next year is going to drag until book 10 is released. For me, this was one of those books that I wish I could force myself to forget just so that I can have the pleasure of reading it again. Rachel continues to mature and finally accepts herself as a demon. And the kiss I have been waiting for since the first (or maybe, second) book finally happens. And it was worth the wait. Well done, Kim!

I mean it when I say that this book is juicy but it does in fact not squirt when I pick it up... And I have picked it up again and again and again... Heck, I got it setting by my bed in easy reach! Truly my favorite Kim Harrison book to date. I am a huge Al Rager and this book gives us a new look at both him and Trent. Rachel starts embracing her demon powers and we get to see Rachel's mom again. Always a treat! ;)

As an avid fan of the Hallows series, I loved this book. I had looked forward to it for so long. I read every advanced chapter Kim Harrison put up on her web site. I teased my self with spoilers from ARC reviews. As a fan of both Trent and Al, I loved what people hinted at in terms of their characters' roles in this book. I waited for Pale Demon like a child waits for Christmas morning. Sometimes after all the build up, a book lets the reader down--it's hard to live up to all that anticipation. Fortunately, for me, this book delivered.

This book may also work as a stand alone, but I do not recommend it. I am such a fan of the series it is hard to say if I could see this as separate from the other books. It seems best that readers start with the first book. That way, but they time they get to PD, they will fully enjoy it as I did.

In addition to character and relationship development, this book has more world building and complex themes. Every new reveal fits perfectly on the past stories. This book embraces usual balance of dangerous tools verses morality, choices verses compulsion or manipulation, and survival and what parents will do for and to their young. Also we see a family style road trip and all that entails. It is compelling, funny, sweet and a great kick ass book.

Okay, we all knew the road trip was coming from like what, three books or so ago? This is it. First, I just don't get the whole Coven of Ethical and Moral standards hunting Rachel thing, I mean after all, hasn't it been pounded into our heads in the first few books that summoning demons isn't illegal, just really REALLY stupid? Nothing she has done could possibly have justified such treatment. Rachel has fought off black witches before and no Coven interest in them... so what's the big deal? Second, the callous treatment of Ivy has been a major point of contention for lots of Hollows readers. I also have to agree with other raters that while some of the other characters seem to grow, Rachel doesn't. To be honest with you, this book has just continued the slow train wreck that is the Rachel Morgan Story since Fist Full of Charms. For those of you who knew me from 2005 to 2007 as DJ Pendragon on Radio Triple X ( a time that I still have fond memories of), you know that a few years ago I used to be one of Ms. Harrison's biggest fans and to be honest, this book included a nod to a gift I'd given her when I came back from Germany on leave and attended one of her signings, actually broadcasting my Hollows internet radio show from the signing. I'd recognize the description of Rittersport Blut orange chocolate anywhere (Rittersport is a German Chocolate bar and comes in numerous flavors). I'll say it simply this way. When I began reading this series, it was obvious Ivy was meant to play a very big part in Rachel's life. Through the first four books, the buildup was palpable and Ivy became like a well worn and comfy robe for Rachel, the one thing she couldn't get through a day without... To put it simply, it seems to me that things started their downward spiral when Ms. Harrison began writing and publishing her Young Adult "Madison Avery" Series. Whether she deliberately sold out her Hollows storylines to make her YA series more plaltable, I can only guess, but it certaily looks that way. This latest installment sees Ivy pretty much walking away. Literally giving Rachel a face to face Dear John speech. It just doesn't make any sense. The quality of the writing, obvious mistakes in story details, the total disregard for the things Rachel stands for ( I think it was mentioned about her unwillingness to kill pixies, but she accepts Trent killing hundreds and destroying a national landmark in the process), and the irritating search for a character to replace Ivy as the love interest for Rachel to avoid her being "wired that way" have just left me wanting to scream over the past few books. It's like someone else has picked up writing the series after Fist Full of Charms or Outlaw Demon Wails without even bothering to read the first four or five books to see which way the story was heading. The really irritating part isn't the off the wall characters that keep wandering in and out and muddling up the story, but the fact that as bad as the experience is getting, you keep wanting to go back to see if if maybe... just maybe, Ms. Harrison is writing the story as well as she had when it started, hoping for some redeeming change of heart. I'll give this one a solid two as I was completely disappointed in just about everything about this one except for Jenks. He was about the only bright spot in the whole book.

I have been a fan of this series for some time now.
I was not sure, when trying the first what to expect.

Yet here the 9th novel in the series. Kim Harrison continues to make you care about the characters, while entertaining you, and pulling surprise after plot twist surprise out of the magical hat.

The kind of book, you just don't want to put down. Fast paced and fun!! A great read!!

Pale Demon a MUST for any fan of the series!!

I love the series, and I like most of the characters, but mostly you just have to roll with it. I didn't understand why Trent's quest, especially after the explanation. Why and how was that time sensitive, and what was with the mother. Don't want to post spoilers, so I wouldn't go into that further because it was definitely an unexpected twists. It is somewhat annoying how all mighty Rachel is and how saintly. It borders on obnoxious.

My main attraction, and what makes it worth the read, is all of the fantasy elements. Most of the main characters have depth, and I'm very interested in what's going to happen with Trent and Rachel, even though it's predictable. I knew from the start that's where it was going. The scene in the kitchen was nice but also ridiculous, but I guess she had to work it in somehow for us.

When I got this series from a professor, I was thinking at the time I would not get into it. I was wrong from the get go... I read every book in almost twenty-four hours. As soon as I found out Pale Demon was out, I bought it without even blinking, and read the book in a little over a day. I would have set a new record in less then a day, but I had errands to run. I could NOT put this book down. I had to know what happened next. So much actioned happened, that I would have been a fool to even think of putting it down!!! Kim Harrison has done it again, and now I am practically checking to see when book 10 comes out every week!!! Gotta know what happens Mrs. Harrison! When does the 10th book come out?! I'm desperate!!!!

I have been a big fan of this series since it came out. Kim Harrison does not disappoint. Rachel Morgan is a complex character, a good person who alway ends up in bad situations. You never think anything worse can happen to her, but Kim Harrison finds a way. I love her growing relationship with Trent, and her other relationships with the demons. I can't wait to find out what happens next.

I was wondering what direction the story was going to go and was pleasantly surprised at the turn that it has taken. I really like the series and hope that it continues on for many books to come. The next one can't come out fast enough, but I'll be patient, it takes time to write a great series and this one keeps getting better!

This is a great next book in the Hollows series. It ties together a lot of parts of the previous books. I recommend re-reading the other books first to really enjoy how far she has come in her relationships. Great read

(spoilers

I'm shocked at the high praise for this book. I've read the whole series and it has been hit and miss, much like this book. I was digging the story for a while, I like nearly everything related to the demons. The storyline with KuSox was ridiculous from the start however with Trent's convoluted scheme to stop and free him along the way like that would ever work out that way. Harrison's style is very in the moment and engaging as such but very few of her plotlines hold up if you actually look at them as characters make ridiculous decisions shifts in personality over and over. Even so I liked the book until the end where it went belly up. Rachel once again did the stupid thing in a life and death situation for the millionth time when she saved KuSox from his richly deserved demise (but hey they made a bargain that he wouldn't kill her buddies so it's okay right he'll only kill everybody else because he's PSYCHO) and she basically killed herself in the process but other people suffered to save her and now she's hiding from her destiny as being one of 2 female demons in existence but of course she'll be back in the demon world again in the next book or 2 won't she otherwise this ditzy series couldn't keep going on and on. And what was the deal with the big breakup with Ivy, sounded pretty final to me but next thing you know they're together again Harrison comes across as unsure of herself with things like this. Only her in the moment style is saving her from having her terrible plots torn to shreds by readers, kind of like the tv series 24

I am a huge fan and this book was one of the best ones, yet. If you are new to the Rachel Morgan Series, I would totally recommend these books to anyone. I just love reading about Rachel, Jenks, and Trent and of course Ivy. Kim Harrison has a wonderful mind and I love to escape with one of her books.

I've really enjoyed these series of books. It's been very interesting seeing how the characters have developed as the story progresses from book to book. Although Rachel seems to always leap from the frying pan into the fire, she always manages to survive. I am eager to see what the next book holds.

I had very low expectations for this book because the further authors get into a series, the worse they get. This exceeded my expectations. I LOVE Rachel but her immaturity and impulsiveness really pissed me off sometimes. In Pale Demon, Rachel has finally grown up.

I adore Trent. I think he brings out the best and worst in Rachel and really isn't that what love is all about? I wish wish their romantic relationship had been more developed in this book but I respect Harrison's consistently steady pace.

I can't wait for the next book!

For the first time ever, I am left wanting more!! I have struggled with this series for a long time, and debated constantly about dropping it...Pale Demon was a fantastic installment of The Hollows. I only wish Kim Harrison wrote all 8 books like this one. Al is absolutey fab! I would love him and Rachel to hook up...at least once! Keep it up Ms. Harrison!!

Ok, I've been reading this series since my wife got me hooked on them and this latest book did not disappoint! Kim Harrison has spun several new twists and turns with an ending that will want you craving the next book! Through Harrison's talent a well detailed world emerges and engulfs the reader as they turn each page. If you are into the paranormal you really should read this series!

(spoilers

I'm shocked at the high praise for this book. I've read the whole series and it has been hit and miss, much like this book. I was digging the story for a while, I like nearly everything related to the demons. The storyline with KuSox was ridiculous from the start however with Trent's convoluted scheme to stop and free him along the way like that would ever work out that way. Harrison's style is very in the moment and engaging as such but very few of her plotlines hold up if you actually look at them as characters make ridiculous decisions shifts in personality over and over. Even so I liked the book until the end where it went belly up. Rachel once again did the stupid thing in a life and death situation for the millionth time when she saved KuSox from his richly deserved demise (but hey they made a bargain that he wouldn't kill her buddies so it's okay right he'll only kill everybody else because he's PSYCHO) and she basically killed herself in the process but other people suffered to save her and now she's hiding from her destiny as being one of 2 female demons in existence but of course she'll be back in the demon world again in the next book or 2 won't she otherwise this ditzy series couldn't keep going on and on. And what was the deal with the big breakup with Ivy, sounded pretty final to me but next thing you know they're together again Harrison comes across as unsure of herself with things like this. Only her in the moment style is saving her from having her terrible plots torn to shreds by readers, kind of like the tv series 24

I am a huge fan and this book was one of the best ones, yet. If you are new to the Rachel Morgan Series, I would totally recommend these books to anyone. I just love reading about Rachel, Jenks, and Trent and of course Ivy. Kim Harrison has a wonderful mind and I love to escape with one of her books.

I've really enjoyed these series of books. It's been very interesting seeing how the characters have developed as the story progresses from book to book. Although Rachel seems to always leap from the frying pan into the fire, she always manages to survive. I am eager to see what the next book holds.

I had very low expectations for this book because the further authors get into a series, the worse they get. This exceeded my expectations. I LOVE Rachel but her immaturity and impulsiveness really pissed me off sometimes. In Pale Demon, Rachel has finally grown up.

I adore Trent. I think he brings out the best and worst in Rachel and really isn't that what love is all about? I wish wish their romantic relationship had been more developed in this book but I respect Harrison's consistently steady pace.

I can't wait for the next book!

For the first time ever, I am left wanting more!! I have struggled with this series for a long time, and debated constantly about dropping it...Pale Demon was a fantastic installment of The Hollows. I only wish Kim Harrison wrote all 8 books like this one. Al is absolutey fab! I would love him and Rachel to hook up...at least once! Keep it up Ms. Harrison!!

Ok, I've been reading this series since my wife got me hooked on them and this latest book did not disappoint! Kim Harrison has spun several new twists and turns with an ending that will want you craving the next book! Through Harrison's talent a well detailed world emerges and engulfs the reader as they turn each page. If you are into the paranormal you really should read this series!

Kim Harrison does it again. Action filled, but after several of the Rachel Morgan installments, the pattern of writing is evident. Still worth the read after investing in the characters of Rachel's world for so long. I still look forward to the next chapter of the Hollows storyline

I wish I could say that I loved this book, but I really didn't. You know how when you read a really good book and you just don't want to put it down because it is so good; unfortunately with this book I kept putting it down because it did not keep my interest. It was so much like the last few books just a different setting; Rachel fighting elves, Rachael fighting demons, Rachel fighting the coven. I wanted Rachel to have some kind of growth in this series; I wanted her to do something besides constantly fighting.

And Trent was a massive disappointment to me. I mean I knew the guy killed people but in this book he is a mass murderer, and no one, especially Rachel, seems to care; this is the same Rachael that does not like to kill even a pixy unless it is self defense. Yet Trent kills hundreds of people in this book and she could care less. I quite frankly couldn't see why anyone would want to spend two seconds in his presence.

At the end of the book Rachel seemed more happy that she beat a demon instead of saving lives. Is she starting to become just like Trent? I am beginning to wonder, and it makes dislike Rachel. I hope in the next book Kim Harrison takes Rachael in a better direction.

Another entertaining installment of the Rachel Morgan series finds the usual cast of characters driving cross country en route
to a showdown with the Witches council in San Francisco. This is definitely a book for the Rachel Morgan veterans as so much of the plot and character interaction is built on the previous novels. If you are new to this series, start back at book #1. Kim Harrison is always consistently good character
development and building the over-arching storyline that connects all of these novels, but her main focus always seems to be the growth of Rachel Morgan's extended family and their complex relationships. An enjoyable and indulgent read, as usual. Kim Harrison fans will be pleased.

I think Ms. Harrison began her series with a brilliant concept, i.e. The Hallows and The Turn. Once she got Rachel seriously invested in the demon world, she lost me. I find the whole demon universe turgid and uninvolving. I thought moving the action from the Hallows might involve more info about the turn, but I got pixies and a big bird instead. Adios...it could have been fun.

...as my favorite heroine. She has grown and changed for the better through out her series. The stories always go some where, never stagnate. And she is a more likeable character. Also, Jenks! That little pixy makes these books as far as I am concerned!

I seriously do not get all of the 5 star reviews. I love Rachel and her crew but, this book was hard for me to get through. I realize that all series need "that book" that is not as action packed and the characters can grow. This book, however, was not easy for me to finish. The attraction between Rachel and Trent was kind of a "Duh" moment for me. They have been doing the bitter banter for too long for them to not have a bit of chemistry.
I will continue to read the books as soon as they come out but, I am hoping the next one is much more appealing to me.

Don't get me wrong, I love Kim Harrison novels. I think I've read most if not all of them. It's just that this book seems a little formulaic. Does it mean I won't buy the next book out in this series? No. But I do hope it has a little more life breathed into it.

Pale Demon,So far its her best work yet. All The Hallow books are very detailed and specific. It makes me feel I'm watching a movie. Kim Harrison, you are a wonderful, wonderful, writer. I'm always sad when the book ends.

Again fantastic series, very entertaining and drags you into this world where Rachel Morgan is really amazing, she goes right out after the bad guys, and steps right into danger every time, a must read if you love witchy stories along with other fascinating characters.

Sadly Kim Harrison's books have dropped out of my ten favorite series to read. The latest book is by far better than her last couple of novels, but no where near the tighter, focused reads of the first few of the series. To be honest the only reason I still read is that those first four books charmed me enough that I want to see what happens to the characters we met in them. I've lost a lot of respect for the lead, Rachel Morgan, since the fourth book, and nothing in the new one has regained it. Rachel is fun in many ways, but so often she's... well... an idiot.

Jenks is a tour de force though, the one character and sub lead that hasn't diminished in any way, and has actually grown and become a better more lead worthy character. I wouldn't mind seeing a Jenks focused series, sans Rachel, like the short story we saw of him in a recent anthology.

Ivy... wow what can I say about her? My total favorite in the first blush of the series, she's been watered down to a pathetic shadow of her former dangerous and fatally attractive self. She gets the "it's not you, it's me." speech from Rachel and is hardly more than furniture in the back ground for this novel. We know she's severely tortured by a demon in this novel only from a throw away line by said demon. She's become THAT unimportant to the series. For Ivy fans, this book is the worst out of the entire series, and not just for the weakness of her presence in the Rachel Morgan universe.

But while one door closes, another opens, Trent fans may have a mixed bag of reactions. Happies for Trent moving to the for ground as Rachel's most likely to shack up with and make lil demon/elf hybrid babies. Not so happies is he's had to take a hit on his intelligence points to be the character in the latest novel and do some of the most heinously stupid, or aware of the stupid but sociopathically not caring about the consequences actions he does here. Yes Trent, uber suave and so NOT stupid in the early books, hits this one with the bright idea of... well that would be a spoiler so not giving details other than it's glaringly stupid for one who supposedly has a bias against black magic and knows just how dangerous dealing with demons can be. gah...

High Points, the Ever After and coming to terms with her demon heritage. More of the witch chick (sorry I forget her name) who bounty hunted Rachel for the council in previous book. From Rachel's reactions to her, she might be the new "girlfriend" to take Ivy's place as the subtle lesbian interest for a "not wired that way" hetero female lead. She is an interesting character, but a poor trade off for the dark intensity of Ivy. There is plenty of humor, and the plot is much better than most recent efforts. Low points, as bad as the previous couple of books were, that isn't saying much. Compared to other series in the same genre, the front character seems to be devolving, while other series leads are growing up and becoming stronger. After the strong reads of the first four books, I'm not sure where the great series that wow'd me back then has gone. It's still a good B list read though. Strong and likeable characterization and interplay between the people in the book save it from the overall plot line pitfalls.