Flame in the Dark (A Soulwood Novel)

I'll admit I still prefer the Jane Yellowrock stories but I really enjoy Nell's too. The characters are interesting, the relationships are fun and the cases just OK. The background of the cases gets too complicated and takes up too much of the story when I'd really prefer to have more development of characters and their lives. There's still some threads from the last story that never got addressed and Nell just has too many minor story threads to keep track of. It felt like a couple story bits like Brother Ephraim got awkwardly wrapped just because they hadn't been properly dealt with yet and the author couldn't see a use for them anymore. Rick's shifting was barely even addressed here and it was the cliffhanger in the last book. Occam and Nell needed at least another chapter to have a good ending but it at least got some development. So the book is good but just isn't great.

Stunning! Faith Hunter's Flame in the Dark is amazing! I was lucky enough to read this fabulous urban fantasy early. I was so excited to start it and by the time I finished, I was in the throes of a mighty book hangover. I was blown away, the plot was so refreshing and unique. Nell is a character that I have thoroughly enjoyed watching become a strong, resourceful member of the the team. Occam is one of my most favorite characters, I re-read any scenes that he is a part of. This series is one of the best around and I look forward to many more adventures with Nell and the gang. 5 stars for Flame in the Dark!

Flame in the Dark must be my most highly anticipated book of 2017. Not only are the two previous books on my top 3 of 2016, I adore the main character. And the support crew. And the worldbuilding. And the unfinished business. Okay, I love everything about this series. It has the best from the Jane Yellowrock universe, without the focus on vampire politics (which I kinda hate and only tolerate because Jane and her crew are so good). So yeah, it sucked me right in.

I am loving Nell's growth. Sure, there was a moment where I kinda screamed "what? No no no no, I don't like it. Faith Hunter cannot do that to me and my precious characters". I get the why it was there. It was needed. I don't have to like, have I? And Nell's justification for her decision didn't set well with me either. Good thing her actions proved what her heart really felt, otherwise I's be terrible upset.

As usual, the mystery and the parts involved and context was very well put, intricate and with dept.

And the ending, although not being a cliffhanger - thank the writing gods - leaves you wanting for more. It would be a good ending for a trilogy. Knowing we are going to have more, makes it perfect. For now.

5 fiery stars. I said it before, and will say it again. PICK THE BOOKS AND START READING THEM. It will be worth it. I Promise.

I had the distinct honor and pleasure of being sent an Advanced Readership Copy of this book, and I have to say, Faith Hunter has created yet another wonderful work of captivating storytelling!

Flame in the Dark is book three in the Soulwood series by Faith Hunter, and although you could read it as a stand alone and it would be great; reading it after having read books one and two (Blood of the Earth and Curse on the Land) makes it so much more amazing!

Faith Hunter takes the time to really develop her characters, and PsyLED (Psychometry Law Enforcement Division of Homeland Security) Special Agent Nell Nicholson Ingram is no exception. We learn don’t learn everything about her all at once or even at the beginning of the book, we learn about her as she learns about herself; we get to watch her grow as part of our own reading experience.

In book three of the Soulwood Series, Nell learns even more about her own supernatural abilities, whilst worrying about how to protect her younger sister: from not only the cult that she grew up in (and her younger sister is still a part of); but from making the same mistakes that she, Nell, made with her abilities. Nell’s interpersonal relationships within Unit Eighteen of PsyLED grow and are challenged, as are her relationships with her family.

This book takes off immediately, a sort of “throw you right into the middle of the situation and you’ll figure it out as you go” kind of beginning. There is a mystery that must be solved, using the abilities of every one of Unit Eighteen’s supernatural/paranormal team members, and we as readers are not privy to any exclusive info that the characters don’t have. We have to figure it out right along with them. The ending was not (in my opinion) something that I saw coming a mile away, or even a quarter of a mile away.

In short, I feel that Flame in the Dark is a masterful tale written by a talented author. I loved learning more about Nell, a female lead character who is strong, and still learning about who and jsut how strong she is. I am so glad to have read this, and anxiously look forward to more books in the Soulwood Series!

Flame in the Dark by Faith Hunter is the 3rd book in her Urban Fantasy Soulwood series. Though this is a spinoff from Hunter’s wonderful Jane Yellowrock series, this is a totally different kind of storyline.

Nell Ingram is our heroine, and in Flame in the Dark, we learn more about her powers. Nell is now a member (probie)of Psyled, a Homeland Security division that investigates paranormal cases. Also on the PsyLED Eighteen team are two others we know from Jane Yellowrock, Rick LeFleur and Soul. There are werewolves, witches, empaths, and even a dragon that work together.

Nell is now a more confident and stronger person, and knows she is not human, but does not know what she is. Nell has an ability that allows her to feel and absorb the earth’s powers, to heal her or fight off enemies. By the end of Flame in the Dark, we will know exactly what Nell is.

At the start of Flame in the Dark, the PsyLED team is called on a case where a Senator and his family have been attacked. The team senses a paranormal element in the attacks, but cannot determine who the target is, which they originally thought was vampires. As more attempts and murders happen, it becomes apparent that the villains are pyro’s, with the victims being burned. Nell’s unusual ability allows her to put her hands into the earth to scent, vision or feel strange and dark vibes of something very dark and dangerous.

What follows is an intense, exciting, gripping and violent tale, where Nell will find herself in bad situations that threaten her own life. With people dying, she will have to go above and beyond to discover who and what is causing these horrific deaths. I was so engrossed into this story, I was unable to put the book down. Flame in the Dark was very well written by Faith Hunter.

What I also enjoyed was the team camaraderie between Nell and her team, especially as they learn more of what she is, and try to help her. We also get to know about Nell’s younger sister, who is slowly developing the same kind of powers, which Nell wants to help her slowly learn to control. But best of all, I loved the slow build budding romance between Occam and Nell, which we expect to become full blown in future books.

This is really a difficult review to do, as telling too much more would be spoilers. I will say that besides being suspenseful and exciting, it was also amazing & wild to see what Nell can do. There was so much more in this book (murder, strange fires, dark and horrific villains, and a fantastic cast of characters you enjoy the ride with), something you will need to read and find out.

LOVED IT!
There are many detailed reviews already posted on this book, so instead of reiterating the content, I'll just tell you why I liked it.

Nell is a very real, sensitive, and likable character. It is easy to see that quite a bit of thought and love went into her creation. The storytelling overall is very good, as it has consistently been in all of Hunter's books I've read, but there is something about the homeyness and grit that is written into Nell's personality that just appeals to me.

She is a woman of humble and somewhat disadvantaged beginnings who is trying hard to make her way in the modern world. She is challenged by family, ingrained habit, and old ways of thinking and sometimes struggles to keep her newly hard-won independence. Watching her grow and her discovery of new things and experiences that most of us take for granted is a refreshing take on a heroine. Makes her very relatable and keeps you rooting for her throughout the book.

The story itself is quick paced and hard to put down, which I've come to expect out of any of Hunter's yarns. This is my favorite book in this series so far and Nell has become one of my best loved and memorable heroines, rating right up there with Kilishandra (Crystal Singer), Paksenarrion, Lessa of Pern, Rachel Morgan, and Mercy Thompson.

I received this ARC an honest review. I just love Nell. With each new book you see how strong she really is emotionally and mentally. She is trying to recover from the mental scarring that her commune church inflicted. She has found out that her family did not abandon her, but got her out of harms way. With "Flame in the Dark", Nell keeps seeing her powers grow and she is seeing her little sister following in her footsteps. Joining PsyLed (paranormal police) has helped Nell find her confidence. In this book, Nell is trying to find who is behind all the assassinations behind the ones in political power. In doing so, will Nell lose herself? You must read this to find out.

With so much going on FLAME IN THE DARK takes us even deeper into the world of Soulwood.

FLAME IN THE DARK was not an easy installment for Nell. She has to overcome quite a bit, but evolves with every experience. I always love that Faith Hunter lets us learn about Nell and what she can do right along with her instead of having us play catch up.

Not only is a lot revealed about Nell and what she can do, but the rest of the PsyLED team continues to develop and grow too. I truly enjoy each and every one of them and love learning new things about them. We even get a little bit of progress on a brewing romance in FLAME IN THE DARK.

The storyline is a full one. There are a lot of things happening in FLAME IN THE DARK and although there isn't much downtime, I still found some parts of the book to be a little on the slow side. But even with the slow parts, I still had no problem keeping interested in what was happening. In the future, I would love to see Nell and Jane interacting some more. For now, I will keep my eyes open for book four.

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

I was lucky to be included in the list of readers chosen to read this before it was published and can honestly say I loved it. I actually find that the more we learn about Nell then the more I like her and dare I say I might actually prefer her to Jane ? Yes I know many readers will disagree but I'm just loving this woman who is such a born survivor.
Nell has accomplished so much, come so far and yet here she is embracing all that it means to be a modern woman whilst still respecting her family and their life choices. So when she's faced with their well meant meddling whilst she's heavily envolved in a new case you just know that it's going to be a story that takes the reader by surprise. The characters here are so vividly painted with quirks, strengths and foibles. Such a lot going on that the reader really does need to pay attention which honestly is no hardship and best of all Nell is starting to flex her flirting muscles! This isn't a romance though it's an amazing piece of urban fantasy and I absolutely love the connection with the land that is clearly runs throughout Nells family. A huge recommendation and I sincerely hope there will be more in this series.
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair

A fantastic tale that continues on to grow into the best series I have read in years. FITD is the third of the Soulwood series...from an author who has yet to disappoint me. I count down the days till her new releases and she is a automatic purchase for all of her books. Faith Hunter has great talent for writing, you open the book and within minutes you are immersed into the tale that grabs a hold and does not let you go, even after you have finished the books, they stay with you wondering what is going to happen next.
I have pondered quite a bit on why I like the Soulwood series so well. Part of it is the paranormal subject itself that I like but most of it is because I can associate. Do not ask me how I can associate with vampire hunters or families living in church communes with multiple wives and forty children. How can I associate and justify killing another being? I associate because she is excellent at combining the far fetched stories with the norm of everyday life. I learn new things with every book..such as great teas and coffee to drink that I had never heard of before that are now staples in my pantry. Her stories make me feel and are escapism at its best.
If you have read Faith Hunter before, you probably already have this book. If you have not, do yourself a favor and start.

Nell is back with Psyled Unit 18 and a new case. Somebody is trying to kill a Tennessee Senator and it's up to Nell and the team to find out who or what is doing it and stop them. Nell is getting stronger with her power and she's learning to control it better but her personal life is getting more complicated. She's learning to stand strong and to go against church teachings by standing up for herself and being heard. She has to make the decision to either step back to some Church ways or move forward to something new. There's a lot of action, danger, and just a touch of romance in this one and I really enjoyed it. Nell is really becoming her own person. Being from East Tennessee I loved that the setting is Knoxville TN and it made me want to drive the 2 hours to get there just to see if I could see Nell and say howdy. I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series.

I was given an eARC from Netgalley and the publisher for an honest review.

Flame in the Dark is the third book in the Soulwood series by Faith Hunter. I do recommend reading this series in order, I do not think new readers to the series will get as much out of it as those that have been following the series. It is set in the same world as the Jane Yellowrock series, and has some character crossover. It is not necessary to have full and current knowledge of the Yellowrock series, but it will certainly enhance the read. It is currently scheduled for release on December 5 2017.

Nell Ingram has always known she was different. Since she was a child, she’s been able to feel and channel ancient powers from deep within the earth. When she met Jane Yellowrock, her entire life changed, and she was recruited into PsyLED—the Homeland Security division that polices paranormals. But now her newly formed unit is about to take on its toughest case yet. A powerful senator barely survives an assassination attempt that leaves many others dead—and the house he was visiting burns to the ground. Invisible to security cameras, the assassin literally disappears, and Nell’s team is called in. As they track a killer they know is more—or less—than human, they unravel a web of dark intrigue and malevolent motives that tests them to their limits and beyond.

Flame in the Dark is what I was hoping for, and so much more. The case that Nell's team is on revealed more about the team, and the supernatural in the world they live in. I liked the slow reveal, but I will admit to have some suspicion about the nature of the culprit prior to the reveal. However, the extent of the horror involved in those crimes still sent me off center and shook me a bit. It was perfectly planned and executed. Nell's journey is so full of emotion and social growth and challenge that I find myself very invested in her story, and the well being of those involved in her life. I was glad to see some huge things happen, some things resolved, and the promise of so much more to come. I will admit to being worried for a bit that Nell's story might be over, and that another character might have to step up and be the focus of the next book or more of this series. Notice me trying to avoid saying anything about the action and plot of this book, because I do not want to ruin the surprises that are in store for readers. If you have been following the series, you need to keep going. If you have not started yet- start from the beginning and buckle up, this series is quite the roller coaster.

Flame in the Dark is another fantastic book by Faith Hunter. My only issue is that I am always wanting to get the next bit of story NOW, rather than waiting for it to be written and published. I highly recommend this series, and her Jane Yellowrock series, which I have been listening to on audiobook. If you like audiobooks, her reader is wonderful so have no fear and jump on in, but do it in order.

Once again Faith Hunter delivers on her promise of a great story. Nell, a widow and cult escapee, has developed some strange abilities. Connected to the land her deceased husband left her, she is now employed by PsyLED, the government agency overseeing supernaturals in America. Weres, grindylows, witches, and an empath make up her time. With a sometimes appearance by a arcenciel, a strange dragon like creature.
One thing I like about this series that is different than JY, is the speed at which Nell develops. In Jane Yellowrock, the MC develops at a much slower pace. Nell is quick to come out of her shell and become more than what one thinks she is.
More than plot, Faith Hunter draws you into the characters and lets you care about them. This, to me, is the mark of a great writer.
I cannot wait for more Nell.
ps The main character's sister, Mud, is a cute addition.

This series is so addictive. Faith knows how to pull you in and keep you wanting more. At first I was concerned because Nell seemed so distant from the team from where we left off in the last book. However, growth, change, adventure, excitement all jumped out of the page quickly and i could NOT put this book down. Loved all the changes that Nell experiences, physically and emotionally, which allow her to grow and ironically become more human. Hated how Faith keeps us begging for more with that tantalizing last scene!!!

FLAME IN THE DARK (Soulwood #3)
Faith Hunter
Ace Books
December 5, 2017

The Soulwood series is an offshoot of Faith Hunter's urban fantasy Jane Yellowrock series, set in the same world and featuring some of the same characters. The difference between the two heroines is profound, however. Soulwood's Nell Ingram is a hill woman raised in a polygamous fundamentalist cult, God's Cloud of Glory Church. Women of the church are second class citizens, no strangers to terror and abuse. Nell is a young widow who has left the church, starting over away from her family who remains there. She lives close by on the property that her late husband willed to her. The church does not like that, and previous books have covered the conflict. Nell has an unusual ability; a marked affinity with the land and the plants and animals who live on it. PsyLED, the division of Homeland Security that deals with paranormal crimes got wind of her through Jane Yellowrock and recruited her into their ranks, made up of were-creatures, witches, empaths, and other paranormal creatures.

Nell is now fully integrated into PsyLED Unit 18 after months of intensive training. The unit is assigned to investigate the attempted murder of a Senator, resulting in multiple deaths and a devastating fire. Since the shooter literally disappeared, it is deemed a paranormal crime. As the bodies pile up and fires continue, Unit 18 can't decide whether it is a turf war between paranormals or something even more nefarious. Nell's ability to "read" the land around the Senator's mansion helps them to discover what they are up against. It is frightening and dangerous to all.

Nell Ingram is a unique character, smart, strong, compassionate, determined and possessed of a power of which even she doesn't know the limits. She has come such a long way from the first Soulwood novel, Blood in the Earth. She will never go back to the church but loves her family and has gained acceptance in their ranks. There is even a romance for her among her colleagues that I was afraid ended in tragedy, but Hunter didn't leave us hanging on that!

I highly recommend both Jane Yellowrock and the Soulwood series. I know that I will be re-reading (or listening to the audiobook) before the next is out. Many thanks to NetGalley and Ace Books for an advance digital copy. The opinions are my own.

RATING- 5 Stars

Watching Nell grow and become so much more is the best! Faith Hunter does it again with another cannot put down book. If you haven’t read Faith Hunter you are totally missing out on one of the best authors, do yourself a favor and read ANY of her novels!!
“Go team Occam”

Wow! This series started quietly and emotionally as Nell Ingram fought for her sense of personhood and independence from the church cult she'd been raised and married young in. As the series continued, Nell's inner strength and ability to take calculated risks helped her to develop even more into her own person while becoming involved, as an agent, with PsyLED, a paranormal law enforcement group. In forming new relationships with non-church members and becoming more urbane, Nell began to develop paranormal abilities of her own that added value to her membership in the psyLED team. In this book, Flame in the Dark, Nell breaks all her constraints and becomes an awesome character, helping her little sister, Mud, who is a lot like her in terms of paranormal abilities, her team members and even a very powerful supernatural creature Nell reports to at work during a time of extreme crisis for the creature. The story is invigorating, powerful and full of emotional punches that make the reader feel really good inside about getting to know Nell and vicariously participate in her successes. My recommendation is to get and read this book as fast as you can, then take a moment to let Faith Hunter know how you feel about her Soulwood series

Faith did it again! I absolutely loved the third book. After reading the other two, it was great “watching” Nell grow and explore not only her powers but her power as a grown independent woman. This was awesome and I’m already wishing for the next book!

The Soulwood series is so freaking unique and captivating that I simply cannot get enough of it. The diverse cast of paranormal characters, supernatural abilities, and action and suspense keep me glued to the page from the first word to the very last. I definitely recommend that you start this series from the beginning so you have the full story on our diverse cast of characters.

Nell Ingram, our special agent and widder woman from East Tennessee continues to surprise and evolve from her cult/church upbringing. I have really enjoyed watching Nell blossom (literally) and grow into an independent woman, who has become slightly more worldly with each book. Her common sense approach to life is refreshing, and her new experiences out in the world away from the church are usually humorous as all get out.

I particularly like Nell's budding romantic flirtation and relationship with Occam, our southern werecat. Occam's fun and flirty banter always makes me smile, and I can imagine that "Nell, sugar" drawl perfectly in my ear. There were some tense moments involving Occam in this book, and I did get a little teary toward the end. But I am really looking forward to this unfolding relationship and can't wait for Occam to teach Nell how a woman should be treated.

Nell's little sister, Mindy (Mud), also featured more heavily in this installment, and she is an awesome little girl. Mud and Nell have so much in common, and I think having Mud around will show us a different side to Nell. It will be interesting to see if interacting with Mud and her family more will bring Nell closer to the church, or if Nell will be able to bring the church out of their backwards thinking ways.

But the main gist of this story was all about the action and suspense, and our PsyLED Unit 18 coming together to find the new paranormal baddie. This particular villian is very hot and seems to be targeting a very powerful political family in Tennessee. With active shooters and pyromaniacs running around, the team seemed to be one step behind and in danger much of the time. But Nell always persists and seems to get the important job done despite her lack of education and world experience. The suspense plot was definitely interested and well-planned. The whole of the story moved along at a fast clip and kept me motivated to read this book in one sitting. (The only down side being now that I am finished, I have a book hangover that I know is going to last a while!)

I commend Faith Hunter on her imagination because Nell is something wholly unique in urban fantasy. I do hope this series is as long-running as Jane Yellowrock as I enjoy both series immensely. Not to mention, I love that the series are set in two of my old home towns - Knoxville and New Orleans. So much fun!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the publisher, Ace and Roc Books.

This book is yet another mind blowing trip with Faith Hunter piloting the way! I cannot get enough of her work! I got the book and didn’t stop reading until I was done, and that meant no sleep! It was THAT good!

This series keeps getting better.
It is so interesting watching Nell change from the girl who was so very brave, but scared of everything into the confident woman she is becoming. Not only that, but the other characters are changing also.
The plot in this one gives lots of twists and turns, so you won't have time to get bored.
The energy between all the characters makes the story shine. Some of it is good, some not so much, but that is what makes for an interesting series.
You can read it as a stand alone book, however, I would recommend reading Blood of the Earth and Curse on the Land first so you can appreciate the changes in the characters even more.

Again I am amazed by Faith’s boundless imagination. So glad I had meals already prepared for the family as I devoured this latest installment in the Soulwood saga. The character and story development allows you to escape for awhile into an alternate - alternate reality. Much needed. Thank you Faith!

I LOVE this series!! I’m not going to give anything away, because I hate spoilers, but the characters and storyline are exceptional. I was a diehard Jane Yellowrock fan, only. However this series has won me over and I can’t wait for book 4!!

I have become hooked on the Soulwood series! I wasn’t sure if I would like a different heroine, other than Jane Yellowrock. But the next thing I will be doing is ordering an audible of this. I read an advanced reading copy, read the paperback I preordered, and am loving it

The Soulwood series is great and I love how Faith Hunter’s books read so smoothly. This book drew me in, and kept hold. The shapeshifters and Others? They feel real to me! Communing with the woods? Creatures! This is a detailed story about a paranormal policewoman and her interaction in her job and with her family. I recommend if you like this kind of sci-if fantasy. I’ve read them all. Thumbs up!

Very slow to develop with much recapping of previous events and relationships. Nell and company investigate an attack on a senator which may represent a war between unknown paranormal races. Frankly, the plot is weak and has huge holes in it. The biggest is why a paranormal who can assume the identity of humans bother with messy public attacks. The personal issues are tedious. The end is very complete and round off most of the existing issues.

The way this ends i can see it being either the end of the series...or the start of ends story line. I am hoping for the new story line. This and the name yellowed series are always fun to read and downright addictive. But start at the beginning of the series - the name t series to understand all the references and personal relationships.

Late last year I read a random book and discovered myself instantly hooked on author Faith Hunter. When I saw she had a new book coming out I knew I had to have it. Silly me didn’t stop and think maybe I should read the first two in the Soulwood series. Hindsight tells me I would have enjoyed starting the series from the beginning and probably would have had a better understanding of the who/whats/whys but frankly, I don’t care. Nope, I jumped in with both feet and started reading Flame in the Dark. Annnnd…. I. Loved. It.

This is one busy story. So much going on from Nell’s family to her fitting in the PsyLED all while trying to solve a murder/crime. Nell herself I found to be a sweet enigma. It took me the longest time to understand what her power was. Had it been discussed in previous books? I’ve read enough paranormals that I should have figured it out, but I didn’t. That right there tells you how unique she is! I really enjoyed her character. So simple, refreshing, intelligent, but good gosh do not piss her off because her power is…WHOA!

Now her family, the cult she came from and her past life had me both curious and horrified. Obviously, I’m missing out on a lot jumping in mid-series but there was plenty of info that I was able to grasp what was going on. Escaping a cult, YIKES! I’m still a bit lost when it comes to Ephraim and the vampire tree but Nell’s time with Mud more than made up for it. Side note: Please tell me there will be more books that include Mud. I would love to know what happens to her.

All of this circles around Nell’s new position with PsyLED, her co-workers and the assassination attempt on a powerful senator. That is one mystery that took me completely by surprise. It has so many twists and turns, by the time the whodunit is revealed, let’s just say Nell and what she is isn’t the only new experience for me in this book. And her co-workers, ack! T. Laine, Tandy, JoJo were all a blast and Rick and Occam’s cat fights…oh yeah, this is a team worth reading about. I love-love-LOVE how Occam was toward Nell. A properly improper kiss. *SIGH* That little dangling carrot has me dying to know what happens next.

Despite not having read the series from the beginning, I found Flame in the Dark to be an exceptionally enjoyable read. The hardest part for me was not what I missed but putting the book down. Honestly, sleep is so over-rated when you find yourself sucked into a story that is too intriguing. I’m giving this one 2 thumbs way up and declaring it a must read.

I received this book from The JeepDiva with the express purpose of an honest review. The opinions, contents, and rating of this review are solely mine
Stars - 5, Flames - 1

This is the third in the Soulwood series, and it just keeps getting better. It's set in the same universe as her Jane Yellowrock books, but has a much different tone. Where that one reflects the hot, murky New Orleans of its setting, this is cooler, slower paced, much like the Tennessee mountains where Nell lives. There's much to unpack here, from Nell's growing relationship with the were-leopard Occam, to her issues involving her family and her younger sister, Mud. The story is reflected in the title, since it involves a Senator who keeps getting attacked at night by flames and guns. Things get resolved, but not in any easy way, and leaves several ethical questions unresolved. I'm also interested in seeing how the results of this case affect the larger world of paranormals in this world, since they have serious ramifications. That is my only quibble, but knowing Faith, it'll be handled later in either a Nell or Jane book. The only other quibble I have is:where are my were-bears already?

I love this storyline and Nell continues to grow and change with new adventures. The only thing that bugs me is there is still a bit too much over explanation and repetition of the same information. I can't decide if Faith Hunter is doing it as character expression, like in the second book where all the cop speak was new and she was explaining it to herself or remembering again and again, or to her audience members who she expects to forget the details and need to be reminded to fully comprehend.
The love interests were played just right, taking a back seat to the plot and heating up slow. It did not seem like the stereotypical progression of this genre which was a nice change.

This was the best book of the series to date. Nell is different. She isn't sure what she is, and neither am I. She grows leaves, but she isn't a plant. She communes with the Earth, and plants, but plants are dumb to her, they play the long game. In this book, she comes into her own. She's still a Probie, but she can do what the rest of team cannot. Each of the members has their strengths and weaknesses, and one of Nell's is a newly developed blood lust, but she can also read the land to find clues as to what is happening to a politician's family. The answer is unique and might actually explain some of the things going on in office now. It is definitely warming up around Nell.

Flame in the dark review

I love how Nell is growing- it’s easy to forget she is in her early 20’s. She’s getting to have a life like a regular woman, and all the freedoms that come with it. We get to see her blossom (see what I did there?) and the suspense and tension between her and Occam are ratcheting upwards. The cultural change rippling outward from Soulwood to the church compound is a wonderful thing to behold.

Faith Hunter is definitely on my must read list because of her very relatable female leads. I hope Nell and Jane Yellowrock have many more adventures to come; I’ll be first in line to read them!

An excellent addition to the Soulwood series!!! I borrowed this particular book from the library, but have many of Faith Hunter's books (especially the Jane Yellowrock series) in my own library and will be almost definitely adding this one to my collection in the future. The author expertly combines old time storytelling with a modern setting with enough twists to keep most any reader guessing and invested in the adventures of all of the primary characters. I highly recommend this book/series for anyone that loves good fantasy/paranormal stories!!!!

As I've followed this series, I've grown to love Nell. It's not easy at first. She's prickly and has a lot to rise above. (Her background is complicated and sometimes horrifying.) As she develops in her magic and her relationships with the psy-led team, she also matures and grows personally. As an introvert, I can certainly relate to the awkwardness she feels with her team members (is it OK to offer someone hair goop if they need it?). I enjoy that there isn't explicit sex or violence. There's a budding romance, though! The ending of this third book is surprising in a wonderful way. It's not a pat formula book at all. Unique, amazing, and unpredictable. I can't wait for the next book!

Flame in the Dark was so amazing! There was mystery, action and just enough romance to keep you interested.
Faith Hunter has created a character that I am completely invested in.
If you get Audible version Khristine Hvam Kies reads beautifully. I finished the book and tried to start another but was missing her voice so much that I had to stop.

Just finished and ready to read again because I gobbled it up and now want to try to take my time absorbing the details. When starting this series, I found it a little harder to fall into than I did with Jane Yellowrock. Even though this is true, I always enjoyed Nell and the other characters. Faith Hunter created a world and populated it with beings that are full-bodied and multi-layered. Ones that you care about even if they don’t always make choices you would prefer. They are themselves, right or wrong, and they learn and grow.

Once again Faith Hunter has written an exciting and entertaining novel. Her latest Soulwood story brings Nell to the next level. She is learning to move away from her past and guilt and grow into an even stronger women role model. One of the best scenes has Nell ordering around a Vampire in a way that would get most killed. Her team is working on a new investigation which is well delivered and very entertaining to read. I highly recommend reading the novel but if you have not read the first two I would recommend them first as it will help with understanding character interactions.Once again an amazing, fast moving and complete entertaining novel. Only downside is waiting for Faith's next book!

I checked Flame in the Dark, book 3 of the Soulwood series, out from my local library. Gotta love Nell-- while this series reads with less intensity than the Jane Yellowrock series, there is a steady, detailed pace and riveting plot that grabs the reader's interest and holds him/her to the storyline. Really looking forward to another book in this series and the flirting between Nell and her werecat.

As usual Faith Hunter is an extraordinary storyteller. Plots that twist and turn all over the place. I live in the south so all the old sayings are refreshing. And dinner on the ground at church was something I loved from my childhood. Just know you can’t fail with a book written by Faith Hunter.

I like Hunter and I like this series but it is not quite as compelling as others she has written. Still good enough. The reason I downgraded to 4 stars is that she referred to an AR-15 as an automatic rifle. She needs to find out something about semi-automatic and automatic rifles.

I'm so glad to know there are more books to come. This is such an engrossing world to visit. I read all three at once and did not want to leave.Wonderful writing, wonderful world building, wonderful characters, wonderful story arc. Nell is a fascinating and unique protagonist, unlike any I've read in the urban fantasy genre. Gosh, I love a good book !

I just love Nell! This one wasn't quite as compelling as the first two, but that might have just been me in my end-of-December reading funk. Faith Hunter is still one of my favourite authors, and I have never read a character quite like Nell.

Nell is figuring some things out. I really hope that there will be more than these three books. The creatures introduced are well described. The action is paced well enough that i read most of this in one sitting

An excellent addition to the Soulwood series!!! I borrowed this particular book from the library, but have many of Faith Hunter's books (especially the Jane Yellowrock series) in my own library and will be almost definitely adding this one to my collection in the future. The author expertly combines old time storytelling with a modern setting with enough twists to keep most any reader guessing and invested in the adventures of all of the primary characters. I highly recommend this book/series for anyone that loves good fantasy/paranormal stories!!!!

As I've followed this series, I've grown to love Nell. It's not easy at first. She's prickly and has a lot to rise above. (Her background is complicated and sometimes horrifying.) As she develops in her magic and her relationships with the psy-led team, she also matures and grows personally. As an introvert, I can certainly relate to the awkwardness she feels with her team members (is it OK to offer someone hair goop if they need it?). I enjoy that there isn't explicit sex or violence. There's a budding romance, though! The ending of this third book is surprising in a wonderful way. It's not a pat formula book at all. Unique, amazing, and unpredictable. I can't wait for the next book!

Flame in the Dark was so amazing! There was mystery, action and just enough romance to keep you interested.
Faith Hunter has created a character that I am completely invested in.
If you get Audible version Khristine Hvam Kies reads beautifully. I finished the book and tried to start another but was missing her voice so much that I had to stop.

Just finished and ready to read again because I gobbled it up and now want to try to take my time absorbing the details. When starting this series, I found it a little harder to fall into than I did with Jane Yellowrock. Even though this is true, I always enjoyed Nell and the other characters. Faith Hunter created a world and populated it with beings that are full-bodied and multi-layered. Ones that you care about even if they don’t always make choices you would prefer. They are themselves, right or wrong, and they learn and grow.

Once again Faith Hunter has written an exciting and entertaining novel. Her latest Soulwood story brings Nell to the next level. She is learning to move away from her past and guilt and grow into an even stronger women role model. One of the best scenes has Nell ordering around a Vampire in a way that would get most killed. Her team is working on a new investigation which is well delivered and very entertaining to read. I highly recommend reading the novel but if you have not read the first two I would recommend them first as it will help with understanding character interactions.Once again an amazing, fast moving and complete entertaining novel. Only downside is waiting for Faith's next book!

I checked Flame in the Dark, book 3 of the Soulwood series, out from my local library. Gotta love Nell-- while this series reads with less intensity than the Jane Yellowrock series, there is a steady, detailed pace and riveting plot that grabs the reader's interest and holds him/her to the storyline. Really looking forward to another book in this series and the flirting between Nell and her werecat.

Faith Hunter novels are guaranteed good reads. This one focuses on a paranormal investigation. Nell’s character does has satisfying character development, too. Growing into her unique earth magic, balancing her family that’s still in her old cult, adjusting to life as a working, independent woman, and discovering real romance. The reason for the 4/5 is because I really wanted more involvement of the rest of the PSYLED team. I felt like they were better fleshed out in the first two novels of this series.

As usual Faith Hunter is an extraordinary storyteller. Plots that twist and turn all over the place. I live in the south so all the old sayings are refreshing. And dinner on the ground at church was something I loved from my childhood. Just know you can’t fail with a book written by Faith Hunter.

Finally got this book at a store and read Books 1-3 in the Soulwood series all in sequence in a week. A very good fantasy in the same world as Jane Yellowrock. I enjoyed the story of Nell and her life. It is very good and very interesting....and makes sense. Looking forward to soulwood #4!

I like Hunter and I like this series but it is not quite as compelling as others she has written. Still good enough. The reason I downgraded to 4 stars is that she referred to an AR-15 as an automatic rifle. She needs to find out something about semi-automatic and automatic rifles.

I'm so glad to know there are more books to come. This is such an engrossing world to visit. I read all three at once and did not want to leave.Wonderful writing, wonderful world building, wonderful characters, wonderful story arc. Nell is a fascinating and unique protagonist, unlike any I've read in the urban fantasy genre. Gosh, I love a good book !

I just love Nell! This one wasn't quite as compelling as the first two, but that might have just been me in my end-of-December reading funk. Faith Hunter is still one of my favourite authors, and I have never read a character quite like Nell.

Nell is figuring some things out. I really hope that there will be more than these three books. The creatures introduced are well described. The action is paced well enough that i read most of this in one sitting

I have read all of the books before this one, and I loved this book. I love Nell's character and all of the others there with psyled. The book deserves 5 stars. Very well written. I need to read the next one. Thank you for writing a great book.

Once again Faith Hunter delivers on her promise of a great story. Nell, a widow and cult escapee, has developed some strange abilities. Connected to the land her deceased husband left her, she is now employed by PsyLED, the government agency overseeing supernaturals in America. Weres, grindylows, witches, and an empath make up her time. With a sometimes appearance by a arcenciel, a strange dragon like creature.
One thing I like about this series that is different than JY, is the speed at which Nell develops. In Jane Yellowrock, the MC develops at a much slower pace. Nell is quick to come out of her shell and become more than what one thinks she is.
More than plot, Faith Hunter draws you into the characters and lets you care about them. This, to me, is the mark of a great writer.
I cannot wait for more Nell.
ps The main character's sister, Mud, is a cute addition.

Wow! This series started quietly and emotionally as Nell Ingram fought for her sense of personhood and independence from the church cult she'd been raised and married young in. As the series continued, Nell's inner strength and ability to take calculated risks helped her to develop even more into her own person while becoming involved, as an agent, with PsyLED, a paranormal law enforcement group. In forming new relationships with non-church members and becoming more urbane, Nell began to develop paranormal abilities of her own that added value to her membership in the psyLED team. In this book, Flame in the Dark, Nell breaks all her constraints and becomes an awesome character, helping her little sister, Mud, who is a lot like her in terms of paranormal abilities, her team members and even a very powerful supernatural creature Nell reports to at work during a time of extreme crisis for the creature. The story is invigorating, powerful and full of emotional punches that make the reader feel really good inside about getting to know Nell and vicariously participate in her successes. My recommendation is to get and read this book as fast as you can, then take a moment to let Faith Hunter know how you feel about her Soulwood series

The Soulwood series is great and I love how Faith Hunter’s books read so smoothly. This book drew me in, and kept hold. The shapeshifters and Others? They feel real to me! Communing with the woods? Creatures! This is a detailed story about a paranormal policewoman and her interaction in her job and with her family. I recommend if you like this kind of sci-if fantasy. I’ve read them all. Thumbs up!

I am a huge fan of Faith Hunter, having discovered her first through her Jane Yellowrock series. So I may be a bit biased when I say I greatly enjoyed this novel. Soulwood is based in the same world as Jane Yellowrock (in fact they even interact at times). Being the third in the series, I strongly suggest you not just skip to it (though if you wanted you could go and read Soulwood without ever having read the Yellowrock series).
Nell is facing new and different challenges every day – a perk of working for PsyLED. This time her team is trying to protect a wealthy senator and his family – they don’t know who is target them, but they know they’re not human.
Warnings first: There are multiple characters in this series (specifically Nell’s family) that have a past experience with assault and rape. Nothing new occurs (thankfully) but the past is brought up a couple of times. Additionally, animal deaths do occur. Nell refers back to her dogs that died before the first book, and a puppy is killed, but it is talked about after the fact, and while there are some details mentioned it shouldn’t be overwhelming as long as you don’t let yourself think about it too much (that was my way of dealing with it). A couple other minor events happen, but nothing as bad as the puppy.
I really enjoyed the latest installment of the Soulwood series. Nell has grown a lot, both in learning to cope with her past, and learning how to manage her abilities. Sure, she’s made mistakes along the way, but frankly that’s what happens when you don’t have anyone to teach you something complicated like that. I loved the little quirks that are occurring because of Nell’s overuse of her abilities (growing leaves at the nape of her neck, etc).
Speaking of Nell and what she is – I adore that she’s trying to help Mud figure things out. I’m not sure if having a helping hand will prevent the same quirks from coming about, or just increase their odds of it. I know their hope is to prevent them, but it sort of seems like they’re going with an all or nothing approach and that never works. I guess I’ll have to wait and see about that though.
Now onto the main plot (yep, I spent all that time talking and haven’t even gotten to the main event). There’s a new enemy in town, and it seems to be targeting one family in particular. Being that one of the family members is a senator, it causes a bureaucratic nightmare of who has jurisdiction over his protection. While the solution left me a little confused on the number of characters in play (having four different agencies working together will do that), it was actually really nice seeing Nell using her “Churchwoman ways” to get along with large groups of people.
Other noteworthy moments (because I’m not going to give the whole plot away obviously): most of the team Nell works with got some more character development, including Rick and Soul. I’m really curious about the silver streaking in Rick’s hair and what that correlates to. I’m hoping more will be revealed in later novels. As for Soul…yikes! She ended up taking their case way more seriously than I was anticipating (the reason why being revealed towards the end). It’s nice seeing more of her personality, as well as some arcenciel lore.
Since apparently I’m in a mood to talk about the characters in this book – I’m exceptionally curious to see what is happening with Nell’s cousin, Hamilton There’s no way Faith Hunter spent that much time building up his character just to have it peter out. He’s going to come up again in another novel, I guarantee it. And based on his personality we’ve seen so far, I don’t think he’s going to be one of the good guys.
I have to admit, I don’t normally do this, but I’m totally shipping Nell and Occam. They’re just so cute together! Their gradual relationship building is not only the exact thing Nell needs, but I think Occam needs it too. They are actually really good together, both as partners in PsyLED and on a personal level. Is there a ship name for them yet? I bet there is. If not we need to make one up ASAP.
The one downside to reading this book earlier than the release date? Now I have that much longer to wait until the next book comes out (yeah I know, I’m so greedy when it comes to books). Oh well, at least they’ll be a new Jane Yellowrock in the meantime!

OMG! I cannot say enough good things about this book, seriously! If you haven't read the first two Soulwood books, then go get them now! I'll wait. But on a serious note, this is by far the best of the three books, in my opinion, and all of Faith's books are just awesome. Ok, that being said, I am horrible at writing reviews without giving away the whole book. This book brings around the best of Nell and Occam and the rest of the crew and brings together some loose ends that were, frankly, bugging me a bit from books one and two. I know Faith has a couple more books in this series up her sleeve and I can't wait to see what she has in store for them *coughNell/Occamcough*, but I guess we'll just have to wait till are born to see what happens! Until then, it's on to New Orleans and other parts of the south and one serious Skinwalker!

Faith Hunter novels are guaranteed good reads. This one focuses on a paranormal investigation. Nell’s character does has satisfying character development, too. Growing into her unique earth magic, balancing her family that’s still in her old cult, adjusting to life as a working, independent woman, and discovering real romance. The reason for the 4/5 is because I really wanted more involvement of the rest of the PSYLED team. I felt like they were better fleshed out in the first two novels of this series.

Finally got this book at a store and read Books 1-3 in the Soulwood series all in sequence in a week. A very good fantasy in the same world as Jane Yellowrock. I enjoyed the story of Nell and her life. It is very good and very interesting....and makes sense. Looking forward to soulwood #4!