Book 12, Dark Queen: Jane Yellowrock

Omg! I cried like a freaking baby. My heart was all over the place with this book! I swear on everything holy that Leo better survive and get with Jane. I seriously hope this is not the end!? Because it would really suck. I honestly can't even describe how I'm feeling right now with this book but it better not be the end. I will be seriously peeved!!!

All in all enjoyable and left me hoping that there will be another in the series because this left so many unfinished stories...
What I didn't like was
1. Jane still didn't embrace and learn to be who she truly is.
2. While I cried at the end it just wasn't her nature to give up.
3. The whole sub basement thing ? Come on ! They didn't learn by now to use more security ?

Thanks to Netgalley and Berkley publishers for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Faith, you've destroyed me. You wrote this masterpiece, filled to the brim with countless emotions. You created these characters that I've come to care about over the years. You have been guiding them towards this showdown with the European Vamps for the last half of the series. But what you haven't been doing us is preparing us for JUST HOW HARD IT WOULD BE. You didn't prepare me to have my heart shattered, then pieced back together, then shattered again. You didn't prepare me for new revelations, for devastating losses, for elated moments of love and family.

But one thing you did prepare me for? The next book. :) Thank goodness this wasn't the end. Thank goodness we've got more. Thank goodness that we get to see where this new path, this new journey, this entirely new world you're going to rebuild from the one you just demolished will lead.

I'll be there. I can't wait.

If you haven't picked up Jane Yellowrock yet, what are you waiting for? Start with Skinwalker and prepare to binge.

(On a similar note, thank goodness we'll have a new Nell book while we wait for the next Jane one!)

Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go try to find some way to process these myriad emotions that I just can't seem to get a grip on... even though I finished the book yesterday... and still can't seem to handle them all.

Not my favorite in the series. Author let the story get away from her. She appears to be finalizing several story lines while starting new ones. My first thought at the end was that this might be the last book in the series. All that aside I did enjoy the book.

This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader as part of a book tour stop.
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I've stopped reading the blurbs for the Jane Yellowrock books, so I had no idea what to expect out of this one when I started it. I spent a couple of days planning on how this was a rumination of/celebration of family disguised as an Urban Fantasy novel. Don't get me wrong, there was plenty of action and plot and all the things we have come to expect from a Jane Yellowrock book. But, yeah, family was the overarching theme. But then . . .

But then, Hunter kicks it into high gear and the long-awaited Sangre Duello starts. Which I didn't expect -- I figured we'd get an entire novel (minus an introductory and follow-up chapter, maybe) dedicated to it. Man, am I glad I was wrong -- I'm not sure I could've handled more of the tension surrounding it than Hunter gave us. Still, everything I'd planned on saying pretty much went out the window.

I've gotten ahead of myself. This series (like any that has gone more than 5 books) needs a "Previously . . ." section. Things have changed so much since Jane rode into New Orleans in Skinwalker that it's almost impossible to remember everything that's happened. Hunter does do enough in the text to remind you who is who and what they've done in the past, so I'm not saying the book is inaccessible. It'd just be nice to have a reminder just where we are in the story without having to re-read eleven novels (not that I have -- I'd probably pick up a few more nuances).

The book begins with Leo solidifying his organization. Moving people around, giving promotions, and cleaning house (not as much as he should have, but even someone who's as politically savvy as Leo isn't perfect). Part of this is the official recognition and establishment of Clan Yellowrock -- which was just so strange. One of the groups that Leo is dealing with is a werewolf pack from the Western part of the US, who are doing some work for him related to the Sangre Duello, who are pretty interesting, and I'd like to see more of them in the future. There's also a new PsyLED honcho floating around -- Rick's boss and Soul's underling -- and his presence is almost as disruptive to Jane's world as the European Vampires are.

Then before you know it -- there we are, the European Vampires are coming ashore to start the Sangre Duello. Which is basically a series of duels -- some to first blood, some to the death (true death, in the case of vampires) -- and just about everyone connected to Leo ends up fighting at least once. It is clear from the way this is set up, the way it's carried out, the way that just about everyone acts during it -- that vampires act on a different morality than just about anyone else. Jane has a very hard time with it all, and many readers will, too. That's good -- that means you're not a monster. I will say that Leo's psychological games with the EV's are a lotta fun. If you have much of an emotional attachment to the characters in this series, you will stress out during this part of the book. Not all survive. Not all who do survive do so unscathed. Without saying what happens to him, I didn't realize how invested I was in Leo Pellissier's continued existence.

Faith Hunter puts all of her experience, all her skill and talent on display here -- and it works. This is really a tour de force for her and it's just a pleasure to read. On the one hand, I thought the pacing was a bit slow at first and wasn't sure what she was doing -- but at a certain point, I recognized that she knew exactly what she was doing and you needed the slow-burn of a start so that you'd be ready for the almost non-stop action to come. There's some brave choices she makes here -- totally shaking up the series, the status is not quo, as a horrible doctor might say. While that might seem like the kind of thing writers need to do (and it is), it can't be an easy choice -- because no matter what we say, we fans want our comfortable series: where we know that Riker will be Picard's Number One for far too long, Lisa will be 8, and that one couch at the Central Perk will always be available for Monica's friends to sit on.

Jane continues to grow and mature, embracing -- and even expanding -- the emotional ties she has to people in her life, taking on more people to protect and defend. She's not a loner anymore, and has stopped fighting this reality. It's great to see. And everything I wanted to say about family is present here, and you'll know exactly what I was talking about when you read this. And if you're someone who threatens any of those she's decided to align herself with? I pity you, because, well, Beast is best hunter, and there's nothing really that'll stop Beast/Jane from making you regret that threatening.

If I was a better blogger -- or at least one who had better time management, I'd come up with a post just about Eli Younger. I really wish I was that guy -- because Eli deserves more attention. As I write this, I remember that Carrie Vaughn gave Cormac a novel to himself (pretty much) -- Hunter should consider letting Eli have his own.

This would've been a great series finale just as it is. I am so glad that it's not -- Hunter's got things set up so well for the next couple fo books (at least) that I'm as excited about this series as I've ever been. But, Dark Queen could've worked as the end. Which is really just to say two things: 1. If you're looking for a new Urban Fantasy series to start, full of magic, vampires, shape-shifters and more? This series is a great one -- but don't start here, start with Skinwalker. 2. Hunter has tied up a lot of loose ends, a lot of long-going plotlines are resolved (or at least brought to a satisfying resting point), which should satisfy long-term readers. I won't say that they'll all be happy about where everything ends up -- I'm not -- but I will say that it's nice to have some sense of closure and resolution.

I laughed, I got angry, I cheered, I fretted, I got awfully close to letting water leak out of my eyes -- I loved this book from start to finish.

Disclaimer: I received this eARC from Berkley Publishing Group

I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads

4 Stars.

First and foremost, Dark Queen is not a standalone- don't even attempt to read it out of series order. As a fan of the series, I've read the beginning books 3 times over, and even I was confused for a large portion of Dark Queen- there's no way to read it out of order and get heads or tails.

Knowing there will be a long wait until the next release, I went into reading with the mindset to savor, reading a few chapters a day for the past week or so. I will say, this may have contributed to the slower-paced feel that I experienced.

Dark Queen is a long book, but it reads even longer. I'm not sure I could have binged on the book from start to finish in a single sitting. There is so much going on, yet so little, as Jane hurried up only to wait for the duel. The entire novel, hundreds of pages, are inane details as the setup to the duel in the last quarter.

This will sound conflicted, but I felt as if there was too much yet not enough going on. Too much, as in there were hundreds of characters name-dropped from page to page, their histories given, that it didn't flow fluidly, yet nothing was truly going on story-wise. This set a molasses slow pace, only for it to go into warp-speed once the duel started. It was jarring in the extreme.

So quick, that I have no idea how the duel even started early, with the weapons being drawn and blood smelled during their reception. I reread that portion four times, and it never was explained. From one sentence to the next, the book changed, and I was beyond confused.

I won't give any spoilers, but there was a dark, depressive feel for the entire novel. After its completion, I can say it had depressed me personally. The author put the DARK in Dark Queen, and it's a mark of good writing how it affected my mood.

I was excited to see a new thread for Jane, of a family member coming in who was previously unknown. This gave a plethora of emotions for the reader to experience via Jane. As always, I appreciated the Native American customs, something that is nearly impossible to find in books.

Jane's connection to everyone in the series is the highlight, especially her familial connection forged with Eli. It's sweet, endearing, and feels beyond realistic, showcasing how empathetic and compassionate Jane truly is.

Rick is back!

I was so excited to see Rick pop back up on the pages, only for him to do a small cameo, while still in NOLA. The reader gets to see very little of Rick. This isn't my odd way of wishing Jane and Rick would get back together, as I love how romance takes a backseat to the vampire politics, butt kicking, and paranormal elements. I just enjoy watching both Jane and Rick squirm when around one another.

As always, Beast's voice is by far the most entertaining thing I've ever read. I'd love more of her, with the innovated way she views the world. I always applaud the author for creating such a unique voice for Jane's other half.

Request: Give Beast and Jane some kits and a mate.

Highly recommend to fans of Faith Hunter and the Jane Yellowrock series. For Urban Fantasy fans, this series is one of the top ones I recommend, but start at the beginning.

I'll be holding my breath for the next book, trusting the author to do the character's justice- I can't get the book fast enough, as the series is balancing on a knife's blade, everything up in the air, with a new story arc created.

I was beyond excited to get my hands on an early reviewer copy of the Dark Queen! I have definitely become a fan of Jane Yellowrock and after the last book, Cold Reign, I was on pins and needles to see where this newest installment would take the story. Dark Queen is the twelfth book, and was supposed to be the last book, in the Jane Yellowrock series but thankfully that is no longer the case. With that said, Dark Queen is an amazing book that brings together a lot of the previous open threads and sub plots and should not be read as a standalone. At the very least you should read the previous book, Cold Reign, prior to this book but really starting with book one, Skinwalker, would be best.

It has finally happened! We all know that it was coming but in Dark Queen the winner takes all showdown between the New Orleans vamps and the European vamps will finally come to fruition. There is a crazy amount of action taking place right from the start! Jane encounters fire after fire throughout this story. Some of them are personal and some of them are related to her position as Enforcer for the Master of the City. With the upcoming Sangre Duello and surprises in her personal life, Jane is not the “typical Jane” that you would know from previous books. She is more distracted and not quite on top of things as usual, which I actually liked because that seems more realistic to me. Jane is a strong character but there is only so much a person can handle at one time and I found it to be a refreshing change.

Another refreshing change that occurred in this story was that Beast had a much larger part than usual and I loved it. The relationship between Jane and Beast has changed over the series and this book truly illustrates the place that they have come to where they are more akin to having a relationship rather than struggling for dominance over one another. Beast cracked me up and the dialogue between Jane and her is always enjoyable. Now there was one aspect of this story that was rather unsettling and that had to do with Leo, the vamp Master of the City of New Orleans, he was very “out of character.” He was soooo not Leo and I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop and waiting and waiting. I liked it very much but at the same time it was just unsettling, ha ha ha.

There are a lot of twists and turns that occur throughout reading Dark Queen but everything truly is about the Sangre Duello. The blood battle itself was truly fascinating and I loved the buildup leading to it. The action that takes place during these battles was pretty intense and there is some creative play with the rules and dynamics of the battle that are both frustrating but at the same time comical. I will say that the ending was quite shocking! All the subplots, open threads, and the main plot were coming together for the finale and then the story took an unexpected turn and now there is a surprising twist that has me all worried and yet excited. I am hoping beyond hope that something wonderful occurs in the next serial because I was quite saddened with where things were going with Jane. Overall, the Dark Queen is a bold, astonishing, and riveting page turner and I highly recommend this book and series to all readers!

This review is based on a complimentary book I received from NetGalley. It is an honest and voluntary review. The complimentary receipt of it in no way affected my review or rating.

I have loved this series from the very first book. Faith Hunter always writes books that are engaging with many twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. Her characters are ones I love and love to hate. Her writing always keeps me enthralled from the first page to the last. This book was no different. If you have read this series this book is a must read. It is what all the others have been building up to. I love how we see Jane and her clan growing and changing. The fight scenes are well done and not drawn out and the twists are very surprising. But the ending OH MY GOD! I won't spoil it for you but I never saw it coming. I am still in shock and I don't know quite how I feel about it. One thing I do know, I can't wait for the next book. Write fast Ms. Hunter. Write fast.

I was given a copy by Netgalley and the Publisher for an honest review.

If you had one word to describe this book, mine would be "WOW!". DARK QUEEN will have you on an emotional roller coaster, that you have been through the wringer. Faith Hunter is truly a master of her craft. I am so glad this was not the last book of the series and the publishing Gods have taken pity on us and given us two more books in the series. How can I sum up the book without giving away any spoilers? We all know that Jane and The Vamps of New Orleans are  getting ready for the SANGRE DUELLO. During all the preparing a new twist is thrown in. Someone claiming to be her brother shows up at her doorstep. Even though Jane has made a family with the Youngers and a few others, this brings up a lot of questions. One is why didn't anyone come looking for her until now? Wouldn't they want to know what has happened to her? Jane has to keep her focus on the European Vamps and making sure they don't sabotage the Sangre Duello. With each book Jane's character has grown. I love the characters and world building that Faith Hunter has created. I recommend this book and series to everyonr.  I give Dark Queen (Jane Yellowrock) 5/5 stars.

As a conservative Christian I have been able to enjoy this series without any trouble. I have bought every single Yellowrock book and books that tied in as well. I enjoyed the lack of Hamilton style smut. Also, the fact that Faith Hunter never said anything anti-Christian, anti-conservative, etc. Surely she knows she has readers on both sides. However, in this book she came right out and called us all derogatory names. I guess she is just another butthurt liberal who can't stand that Trump won. FYI Faith Hunter, I am neither a homophobe, nor a racist. As a Cherokee/Irish conservative Christian I have people of all colors in my family. Either way, I will not be buying anymore of your books. Way to run off customers!

“Dark Queen” by Faith Hunter is the twelfth book in the ‘Jane Yellowrock’ series and continues to explore Jane’s ever-changing position in the hierarchy of power in New Orleans. Juggling her responsibilities as Enforcer, as partner, and as lover, plus the unexpected additions of new titles and therefore new burdens and obligations, Jane tries to help prepare for the world-shaking duel that will determine who rules the American vampire faction. Bloodshed and death are inevitable, but the goal is to make sure most, if not all, is conferred upon the enemies rather than the allies and beloved members of her growing clan.

This urban fantasy tale is part of a series that never fails to enthrall and entertain, even when I don’t like what is taking place, given the complicated personalities and allegiances involved in these stories. What is most amazing to me is how vividly the characters are depicted, so I have no trouble becoming immersed in the complex and well-built world that houses these intriguing folks. The blend of political and personal maneuverings and power plays keep the action moving constantly and the unexpected family drama in this particular book deepens the reader’s emotional investment in one particular character, even as it adds yet another dimension to the struggles going on. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to keep up with the series, so I was a little slow to figure out some of the relationships between various folks, but I still cheered and mourned as various conflicts played out.

I think that what I enjoy most about these books is their ability to take me away from my own problems while making the machinations of these amazing folks so mesmerizing that I am held captive for hours—chuckling at Beast’s pithy observations, hissing at the villains, and cheering for the “good” guys (yes, that term is used advisedly sometimes, especially with bloodsuckers, lol).

Those who are not familiar with the series are advised to start at the beginning for maximum enjoyment, but I think you probably could get sucked into Jane’s orbit even if you didn’t have much of the back story. As usual, the story ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger, but amazingly (for me) it wasn’t as painful as it could be, despite the fact that I still am VERY curious about how certain things are going to turn out. Like Beast, there are some things that have played out to my satisfaction, so I am temporarily content, although I do confess that there are some very emotional sequences in addition to the heart-pounding and violent fight scenes and other dramatic encounters. The creativity, complex world-building, and imagination that are hallmarks of this author continue to keep each story fresh and make her one of my go-to urban fantasy authors. I hope that there are many, many more stories still to come about Jane Yellowrock and her friends.

A copy of this title was provided to me for review

I'm ever grateful for my advanced copy of Dark Queen. From beginning to end, I was enthralled, as always. Jane/Beast are so real to me that I live with them and the other characters in every book. Jane's family and friend dynamics continue to grow in strength and depth. New and old characters from Psyled appear. We learn layer upon layer of Leo's long-term political maneuvering and planning. Jane again goes to counsel with Aggie about old/new discoveries/feelings. Surprises about Katy and Sabina, the build-up to Sangre Duello, the reappearance of Kemnebi, the Son of Darkness in the sub-basement, and the magic of Molly and the local witches and magical items all contribute to both order and chaos. The surprise of deadly disease and an unusual but forward-moving final chapter leave me wanting to read the next book right now, although it's not yet written. I laughed, smiled, wanted to grieve, and wanted to slap some people and kill others. Bruiser/George is wonderfully present throughout. Faith Hunter has written another stunning and superb segment of Jane Yellowrock's life, and I'm so very glad there's another to come. Oh...a brand new character will surprise you...and I do mean surprise. Thanks, Faith!

I just finished listening to Dark Queen on audible. I am so emotional. First this is by far the best book of the series. I really really loved Cold Reign and Dark Queen blows it out of the water. The biggest baddest ugly's are here folks and they are just as horrible as we have been led to believe. I usually do a re-read/listen to the entire series when a new book comes out but you should really go back and read "Blood Trade" for sure. If it has been a while since you have read or listened to the series it will help to put a place to the names "Dark Queen". Second, everything we have been reading has lead up to this book and it was so worth it. I was cheering, screaming, crying, laughing and really really stressed out. I have become so invested in these characters and Hunter's writing was so beautifully detailed and tragic. You will be hanging onto EVERY WORD. When the closing credits of the story were read I found myself saying, "I have enjoyed the heck out of this one audible." Lastly, I am so glad that Faith Hunter has two more books I do not know how this was supposed to be the last one in the series.

This is epic, I mean not only in the sense of the battle/battles, but in the world and character building. There are so many pieces woven together and tied up here, that my mind is kind of blown.

Not to go on a diatribe, but series such as Game of Thrones get all the accolades, but this, and other authors in the genre such as Singh and Andrew's, get overlooked because there is a romantic element to the series and are under appreciated. With the Soul Wood spinoff, now in the third book, this is a rich and complex world.

And shocking, especially for a reader like me who reads the last one or two chapters of a book, otherwise I read too quickly and miss things. I'm a bit impatient.

Anyhow, there is a lot of change at the end, and if I didn't know there are two more books left in the series, I'd be peeved, though honestly, it could end here I think, though I'd be furiously disappointed.

I recommend that long term readers start at the beginning and re-read the series as a refresher, and any new readers, you lucky people you, do so as well.

I Will Not ruin the book for you with spoiler information. But I will say this is the best book of the series and I have read them all. Faith gives you background information with every book in the series---BUT, I suggest reading the entire series, it doesn’t disappoint. The narrator, Khristine Hvam is excellent.

This is what I will say about this story—consider it an emotional guideline:
First, a new face brings confusion and emotions to the surface. The unknown and deceptions show their ugly faces. Step by step you will be carried to the pinnacle, to find things are not as they should be. Death and unknown magics interact to with those at the battles with the European Vampires.
Action, Emotions, magic, and stress take Jane on her own roller coaster ride at the end. One that leaves us with open questions. So much loss to overcome. Life now, is not what it was, and yet one truth continues—that love is the glue holding those who remain together.

Faith Hunter---you have outdone yourself. I will count the days for the next addition to Jane Yellowrock series. BRAVO !!

Khristine Hvam—Amazing job. Everyone should hear your narration on this story. BRAVO ! !

I read this book so fast the pages are probably scorched and the characters have whiplash. This latest installment in Faith Hunter's Jane Yellowrock series does not disappoint. This book finds the characters preparing for the up quickly approaching Sangre Duello battles. This battle is to the the death and if Jane's side loses, every paranormal in the U.S . will be affected. That's a heavy burden that our group carries sometimes beautifully and others not so much. We get to see some character growth in some of the old familiar characters, while being introduced to some new ones. There were a few things I didn't see coming, and I loved that about the book. I can't wait for the next installment.

Khristine Hvam does her usual stunning job bringing to life the characters in the Audible edition of Dark Queen. Great narration.

That's the easy part of the review. The hard part is writing a review without out spoilers. Many story arcs come together so going into detail will ruin the surprise as the plot twists and turns.

Faith Hunter is great at providing series background so a new reader can pick up any book in the series, and not get lost. Dark Queen will be enjoyed more after reading earlier books in the series. Jane is off balance in the first part of the book, dealing with friends, family and old enemies and trying to master her evolving magic. There are new threats to the Vampires of NOLA, and to the witches she has sworn to protect.

The long anticipated arrival of the European vampires, and the Blood Duel take make up the second half of the book, and many of the chess moves Leo has made over the centuries finally become apparent.

Over all this is a great book, a wild ride, and the ending a major surprise.

This is book 12 of a series. With this series you really do have to read them all and in order. That being said it is worth your time. Warning it does end in what I consider a cliffhanger. Glad she is not scared to add new faces so late in series. She definatly keep her readers intrigued. Good read!

Faith Hunter hits a grand slam with this beauty!! Great plot with lots of twists, continued character development (NOT easy in book #12) and even a cliffhanger at the end. I especially like the “family” theme and Jane’s ironic comments about how weird her life has become due to the family she’s built.

Is this the end of the series? Spoiler alert. I was disappointed overall with this book. I fell asleep several times reading it - unusual for me. There was a lot of unnecessary description and not enough info with past characters' interaction. Her time travel ability seemed too contrived and annoying in this book, whereas it was interesting and better integrated with past stories. There was a lot of tokenism - a few lines or paragraphs re Jodi or Rick, vamps, or team members, or those others always around, just to give them a "curtain call" it seemed. Why so much of nothing re the brother? I felt the entire brother story was worthless until we find the real reason for his being there...seems his only reason for being was to be a delivery boy of sorts. He gave Jane her baby teeth, so now she might have a chance to live! OMG. I almost laughed out loud re this plot device. She will now, maybe get her HEA with Bruiser. Re Leo, if you didn't figure out he was going to die, you never read a book before, but it was still disappointing in that his death was seen from Jane's weird bubble. Jane could do nothing but watch. Strange. I thought Leo deserved more, I also felt that someone should have spoken more about the fact all the re-organization Leo was doing was saving his empire but also he was acting as if he knew he was going to die and no one really call him on that! No discussion about Leo or with Leo about what is he thinking? Was something wrong? Everyone took everything in stride and I felt that it was inappropriate. The other characters deserved more, too. Jane's wardrobe got way too much book time and why? Bruiser called her beautiful and she got all crazed for a second... what? Strange mash up of emotions, lack of emotions, inappropriate emotions, etc. But it's over, and we'll see if there is a spin off. I am sad it ended, and especially sad it ended with a lesser book.

Ms. Hunter does not disappoint with the newest addition to the Jane Yellowrock series! As in previous books, you are taken on a roller coaster ride of action, emotions and surprises.

Jane's family continues to grow, and her relationship with Eli and Alex deepens. Speaking of Alex, it's nice to see the kid growing up a little more in each book. I got a kick out of how he stands up to Jane, something I don't remember him having done before.

There are still times when I want to yell at Jane for falling back on old patterns of behavior, but she is growing as a person and as a character, and I hope to see that continue in each story. Beast, on the other hand, is still my absolute favorite.

Leo, the man I love to hate, has become almost likable in this story. Almost! Edmund is still sort of a mystery to me. Maybe it's just me ... And George AKA Bruiser is proving to be a faithful partner to Jane.

I did run into a couple of inconsistencies in the details of a few scenes - for example whether Gee knows about Beast (there's a great car scene towards the beginning of the book that appears to conflict with something said later on). These conflicts are pretty minor and don't really impact the overall story.

If you hate cliff-hanger endings, I'll say this (without giving any details away): A lot of open questions and the long-anticipated Sangre Duello are resolved, but you didn't really think Ms. Hunter would tie up *every* loose end, did you? Several questions are left answered, and plenty of new issues are introduced. There are at least two more books planned for the series, so all we can do is wait (impatiently, in my case) for the next release. That said, this book does end on a hopeful note.

“Dark Queen” by Faith Hunter is the twelfth book in the ‘Jane Yellowrock’ series and continues to explore Jane’s ever-changing position in the hierarchy of power in New Orleans. Juggling her responsibilities as Enforcer, as partner, and as lover, plus the unexpected additions of new titles and therefore new burdens and obligations, Jane tries to help prepare for the world-shaking duel that will determine who rules the American vampire faction. Bloodshed and death are inevitable, but the goal is to make sure most, if not all, is conferred upon the enemies rather than the allies and beloved members of her growing clan.

This urban fantasy tale is part of a series that never fails to enthrall and entertain, even when I don’t like what is taking place, given the complicated personalities and allegiances involved in these stories. What is most amazing to me is how vividly the characters are depicted, so I have no trouble becoming immersed in the complex and well-built world that houses these intriguing folks. The blend of political and personal maneuverings and power plays keep the action moving constantly and the unexpected family drama in this particular book deepens the reader’s emotional investment in one particular character, even as it adds yet another dimension to the struggles going on. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to keep up with the series, so I was a little slow to figure out some of the relationships between various folks, but I still cheered and mourned as various conflicts played out.

I think that what I enjoy most about these books is their ability to take me away from my own problems while making the machinations of these amazing folks so mesmerizing that I am held captive for hours—chuckling at Beast’s pithy observations, hissing at the villains, and cheering for the “good” guys (yes, that term is used advisedly sometimes, especially with bloodsuckers, lol).

Those who are not familiar with the series are advised to start at the beginning for maximum enjoyment, but I think you probably could get sucked into Jane’s orbit even if you didn’t have much of the back story. As usual, the story ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger, but amazingly (for me) it wasn’t as painful as it could be, despite the fact that I still am VERY curious about how certain things are going to turn out. Like Beast, there are some things that have played out to my satisfaction, so I am temporarily content, although I do confess that there are some very emotional sequences in addition to the heart-pounding and violent fight scenes and other dramatic encounters. The creativity, complex world-building, and imagination that are hallmarks of this author continue to keep each story fresh and make her one of my go-to urban fantasy authors. I hope that there are many, many more stories still to come about Jane Yellowrock and her friends.

A copy of this title was provided to me for review

I'm ever grateful for my advanced copy of Dark Queen. From beginning to end, I was enthralled, as always. Jane/Beast are so real to me that I live with them and the other characters in every book. Jane's family and friend dynamics continue to grow in strength and depth. New and old characters from Psyled appear. We learn layer upon layer of Leo's long-term political maneuvering and planning. Jane again goes to counsel with Aggie about old/new discoveries/feelings. Surprises about Katy and Sabina, the build-up to Sangre Duello, the reappearance of Kemnebi, the Son of Darkness in the sub-basement, and the magic of Molly and the local witches and magical items all contribute to both order and chaos. The surprise of deadly disease and an unusual but forward-moving final chapter leave me wanting to read the next book right now, although it's not yet written. I laughed, smiled, wanted to grieve, and wanted to slap some people and kill others. Bruiser/George is wonderfully present throughout. Faith Hunter has written another stunning and superb segment of Jane Yellowrock's life, and I'm so very glad there's another to come. Oh...a brand new character will surprise you...and I do mean surprise. Thanks, Faith!

I just finished listening to Dark Queen on audible. I am so emotional. First this is by far the best book of the series. I really really loved Cold Reign and Dark Queen blows it out of the water. The biggest baddest ugly's are here folks and they are just as horrible as we have been led to believe. I usually do a re-read/listen to the entire series when a new book comes out but you should really go back and read "Blood Trade" for sure. If it has been a while since you have read or listened to the series it will help to put a place to the names "Dark Queen". Second, everything we have been reading has lead up to this book and it was so worth it. I was cheering, screaming, crying, laughing and really really stressed out. I have become so invested in these characters and Hunter's writing was so beautifully detailed and tragic. You will be hanging onto EVERY WORD. When the closing credits of the story were read I found myself saying, "I have enjoyed the heck out of this one audible." Lastly, I am so glad that Faith Hunter has two more books I do not know how this was supposed to be the last one in the series.

This is epic, I mean not only in the sense of the battle/battles, but in the world and character building. There are so many pieces woven together and tied up here, that my mind is kind of blown.

Not to go on a diatribe, but series such as Game of Thrones get all the accolades, but this, and other authors in the genre such as Singh and Andrew's, get overlooked because there is a romantic element to the series and are under appreciated. With the Soul Wood spinoff, now in the third book, this is a rich and complex world.

And shocking, especially for a reader like me who reads the last one or two chapters of a book, otherwise I read too quickly and miss things. I'm a bit impatient.

Anyhow, there is a lot of change at the end, and if I didn't know there are two more books left in the series, I'd be peeved, though honestly, it could end here I think, though I'd be furiously disappointed.

I recommend that long term readers start at the beginning and re-read the series as a refresher, and any new readers, you lucky people you, do so as well.

I Will Not ruin the book for you with spoiler information. But I will say this is the best book of the series and I have read them all. Faith gives you background information with every book in the series---BUT, I suggest reading the entire series, it doesn’t disappoint. The narrator, Khristine Hvam is excellent.

This is what I will say about this story—consider it an emotional guideline:
First, a new face brings confusion and emotions to the surface. The unknown and deceptions show their ugly faces. Step by step you will be carried to the pinnacle, to find things are not as they should be. Death and unknown magics interact to with those at the battles with the European Vampires.
Action, Emotions, magic, and stress take Jane on her own roller coaster ride at the end. One that leaves us with open questions. So much loss to overcome. Life now, is not what it was, and yet one truth continues—that love is the glue holding those who remain together.

Faith Hunter---you have outdone yourself. I will count the days for the next addition to Jane Yellowrock series. BRAVO !!

Khristine Hvam—Amazing job. Everyone should hear your narration on this story. BRAVO ! !

I read this book so fast the pages are probably scorched and the characters have whiplash. This latest installment in Faith Hunter's Jane Yellowrock series does not disappoint. This book finds the characters preparing for the up quickly approaching Sangre Duello battles. This battle is to the the death and if Jane's side loses, every paranormal in the U.S . will be affected. That's a heavy burden that our group carries sometimes beautifully and others not so much. We get to see some character growth in some of the old familiar characters, while being introduced to some new ones. There were a few things I didn't see coming, and I loved that about the book. I can't wait for the next installment.

Khristine Hvam does her usual stunning job bringing to life the characters in the Audible edition of Dark Queen. Great narration.

That's the easy part of the review. The hard part is writing a review without out spoilers. Many story arcs come together so going into detail will ruin the surprise as the plot twists and turns.

Faith Hunter is great at providing series background so a new reader can pick up any book in the series, and not get lost. Dark Queen will be enjoyed more after reading earlier books in the series. Jane is off balance in the first part of the book, dealing with friends, family and old enemies and trying to master her evolving magic. There are new threats to the Vampires of NOLA, and to the witches she has sworn to protect.

The long anticipated arrival of the European vampires, and the Blood Duel take make up the second half of the book, and many of the chess moves Leo has made over the centuries finally become apparent.

Over all this is a great book, a wild ride, and the ending a major surprise.

This is book 12 of a series. With this series you really do have to read them all and in order. That being said it is worth your time. Warning it does end in what I consider a cliffhanger. Glad she is not scared to add new faces so late in series. She definatly keep her readers intrigued. Good read!

Faith Hunter hits a grand slam with this beauty!! Great plot with lots of twists, continued character development (NOT easy in book #12) and even a cliffhanger at the end. I especially like the “family” theme and Jane’s ironic comments about how weird her life has become due to the family she’s built.

Is this the end of the series? Spoiler alert. I was disappointed overall with this book. I fell asleep several times reading it - unusual for me. There was a lot of unnecessary description and not enough info with past characters' interaction. Her time travel ability seemed too contrived and annoying in this book, whereas it was interesting and better integrated with past stories. There was a lot of tokenism - a few lines or paragraphs re Jodi or Rick, vamps, or team members, or those others always around, just to give them a "curtain call" it seemed. Why so much of nothing re the brother? I felt the entire brother story was worthless until we find the real reason for his being there...seems his only reason for being was to be a delivery boy of sorts. He gave Jane her baby teeth, so now she might have a chance to live! OMG. I almost laughed out loud re this plot device. She will now, maybe get her HEA with Bruiser. Re Leo, if you didn't figure out he was going to die, you never read a book before, but it was still disappointing in that his death was seen from Jane's weird bubble. Jane could do nothing but watch. Strange. I thought Leo deserved more, I also felt that someone should have spoken more about the fact all the re-organization Leo was doing was saving his empire but also he was acting as if he knew he was going to die and no one really call him on that! No discussion about Leo or with Leo about what is he thinking? Was something wrong? Everyone took everything in stride and I felt that it was inappropriate. The other characters deserved more, too. Jane's wardrobe got way too much book time and why? Bruiser called her beautiful and she got all crazed for a second... what? Strange mash up of emotions, lack of emotions, inappropriate emotions, etc. But it's over, and we'll see if there is a spin off. I am sad it ended, and especially sad it ended with a lesser book.

Ms. Hunter does not disappoint with the newest addition to the Jane Yellowrock series! As in previous books, you are taken on a roller coaster ride of action, emotions and surprises.

Jane's family continues to grow, and her relationship with Eli and Alex deepens. Speaking of Alex, it's nice to see the kid growing up a little more in each book. I got a kick out of how he stands up to Jane, something I don't remember him having done before.

There are still times when I want to yell at Jane for falling back on old patterns of behavior, but she is growing as a person and as a character, and I hope to see that continue in each story. Beast, on the other hand, is still my absolute favorite.

Leo, the man I love to hate, has become almost likable in this story. Almost! Edmund is still sort of a mystery to me. Maybe it's just me ... And George AKA Bruiser is proving to be a faithful partner to Jane.

I did run into a couple of inconsistencies in the details of a few scenes - for example whether Gee knows about Beast (there's a great car scene towards the beginning of the book that appears to conflict with something said later on). These conflicts are pretty minor and don't really impact the overall story.

If you hate cliff-hanger endings, I'll say this (without giving any details away): A lot of open questions and the long-anticipated Sangre Duello are resolved, but you didn't really think Ms. Hunter would tie up *every* loose end, did you? Several questions are left answered, and plenty of new issues are introduced. There are at least two more books planned for the series, so all we can do is wait (impatiently, in my case) for the next release. That said, this book does end on a hopeful note.

I've read pretty much everything Faith Hunter has written in Jane Yellowrock's world, including short stories. I'm what you'd call a dedicated fan. That being said, I could NOT simply plow my way through this one with a marathon reading, and I had to take lots of breaks. It was just that intense, and so much was happening. The series has really built up to this over a dozen installments, and a few times I wanted to stop what I was doing and sit Faith Hunter down with a stern, "Girl. Seriously. You're killing me here with this!" It ends not with a cliffhanger but with an open-ended question... there's a big difference between the two. Because I DETEST spoilery reviews, I'm not going there.

Suffice it to say I was very happy that I dedicated a few days to the thorough enjoyment of Dark Queen. It's definitely worth your time (and the emotional trauma you will no doubt experience). To be fair, it's not as much of a wringer as it could have been, so don't let that scare you off. It will be a challenge to wait patiently to see what happens next with one of my favorite fictional heroines.

The EVs are here, and the Sangre Duello is being prepared for to determine the future of not only NOLAs paranormals, but the US and Europe. Jane must once again face seemingly insurmountable odds to try and protect those she has come to care for. A many-layered, many-faceted plan has been put into place safety for all those left behind regardless of the outcome of the blood duel.

This is a story of family - with all it hardships and benefits. It is a story of love, of death, of rebirth. Like life, it has it's slow moments, it's fast moments, it's heartbreaking moments, and it's joyful moments. If you are unable to read emotionally draining books then this is not the book for you, but if you can... it is SO worth it!

I know I have said it before - and will probably say so again - but, Faith's writing is so descriptive and so full of life that it is easy and fun to read while creating a highly imaginative and colorful world. There were a couple of passages that made me laugh while at work - the ones with BQ and/or Deon - which of course made my co-workers curious. I had to share the Elton John passage with my self-dubbed gay work husband because it was just too perfect, and I knew he would enjoy it as much as I did. I got the book back with the comment, "Oh My God! I love how she writes! It is just SO descriptive!"

I made the colossal mistake of finishing this book while on a small plane on the first leg of my vacation flight... with only 1 tissue. So be warned - if you cry reading books - do NOT finish this book in public unless you have a ready supply of tissues!

**I received complimentary ARC of this book from the publisher in order to provide this review.**

I just finished Dark Queen. I have quite literally laughed, cried, held my breath and giggled at various times. This book could have been the culmination of the Jane Yellowrock series, thank all the Angels, Faith Hunter and her publisher that it is not.
As usual great characters, exciting plot, and warm heartfeelz. Time to read it again...

I've been reading Jane Yellowrock since the beginning and let me tell you, this book is something else. Author Faith Hunter returns for a twelfth book in the Jane Yellowrock series, Dark Queen. If you thought you knew what was going to happen in this series, this book probably tossed your ideas out the door. Long time readers will experience a myriad of emotions as the novel twists and turns to the final page. Love. Hate. Revenge. Sadness. I think you'll feel them all. I'm still in a bit of shock after finishing this one. Can't recommend it enough for Urban Fantasy readers.

What I liked:

First I want to say that this series is close to the top of my Urban Fantasy picks. It is so well written. The world building is among the best in the business and the characters grow on you so much you hate to leave them when each book ends. Jane Yellowrock is as badass as they come in this genre. I was under the impression that this would be the final book in the series and I was dreading that, but the author was given a contract for two more. That's why the book reads with so much finality to it and then flips a switch and goes in a new direction. A lot of it was already in play before the two new ones were ordered. That's good and bad in some ways. As for myself... I want more.

Jane is an enforcer. She's not someone that anyone in the supernatural world or the human world for that matter would want to mess with. In this one Jane does a lot of soul searching. She also does a lot of fighting. She is attempting a relationship with Bruiser but a lot of stuff is going on here, that could effect everything including where that is going. I thought Hunter set a very rapid and gut wrenching pace for Jane in this one. So many things happen to her. We learn more about her past but we also get more questions. Beast is very insistent in this one which I liked. Soooo good!

There was so much action and thrills in this one. There wasn't really much a break for the characters and I was one the edge of my seat for most of it. It seemed like one action scene just flowed into another. That's really the difference between Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance. In Urban Fantasy the romance takes a back seat to the action of the story. If this type of book is something you've never tried before... Jane Yellowrock is such a good place to start.

What I didn't like:

Because there is so much action, there is a lot of gore and violence. As I said before Jane knows what she's doing and how to get it done, but that isn't for every reader. Some readers will not like how heavy handed this one is with killing. It's just not something everyone will be into to. I don't care for it all the time but it was necessary in this one. So take with a grain of salt and don't get too hung up on it.

Bottom Line:

I really can't recommend this one enough. Jane Yellowrock is one of my favorite heroines of the genre. Faith Hunter does an amazing job of pulling it all together and making the reader crave more. I'm glad this wasn't the last one. It should be interesting where we go from here. Bit of a cliffhanger with this one folks. Don't you hate those... Go buy this one and the whole series. You won't be disappointed.

So much action! Such a cliffhanger of an ending!

Jane Yellowrock ... Rocks! Thank goodness there are 2 more books coming (hopefully SOON), so the dangling ending(s) can be resolved. Just wish I could give Dark Queen more than 5 stars; it deserves more!

This is the best Jane Yellowrock to date. From the very beginning she throws new things at us that I never imagined. A thrilling series that must be read in order. Faith Hunter just keeps getting better and better. You must read this book. I don't normally give five stars but this book earned them!

Another winner for Faith Hunter. I love this series. The main character has grown and matured with all the books. I had heard this was to be the last book in the series. But was told there are 3 more coming.
Some loose ends were tied up in this book, but there are unanswered questions still.
This is not a book you can start with. If you want to read a great paranor.so series start with SKINWALKER and move on from there.

I’ve read it twice now and still just WOW, it left me crying with laughter and sorrow. I loved how two of her short stories made a big entrance in this book and hope they will play into the next. I am so happy we have two more in this wonderful series and hope the cliffhangers have good endings. Keep them coming Faith!

I have resented work and shirked all my other responsibilities this week because I couldn't stop listening to this story. I have laughed, worried, yelled, and cried. I was happy, sad, nervous, scared - for the characters that I have grown to love throughout this series. Faith Hunter grabs your emotions and doesn't let go. She makes the places real, she makes the people real, makes it feel like you are there. Khristine Hvam brings it all to life. Her Jane voice is what I hear even when I read Jane Yellowrock books in printed form.

I have always loved reading, because you can go places and learn things that you might never otherwise experience. To have books that actually take over a little corner of your heart is rare. For me, this is one of those stories.

Faith Hunter is hands down the best writer of Dark Urban Fantasy and her character Jane Yellowrock series consistently delivers a fantastic tale of female BadAssery. Jane Yellowrock grows in each installment and her legend will continue long after the series ends (which hopefully is none too soon.) Hunter’s dialogue and ability to world build is superior, making the novel outstanding, gripping, and fast paced.

It took me a while to decide to try Jane Yellowrock series but once i started i couldn’t stop until i tried them all. This book was exciting and action packed. I love the bonds that Jane has built over the years. She was a lonely orphan and couldn't make friends easy. Now she has chosen family and die hard friends of all species. The Dark Queen is by far the best in the series. I hope it never has to end. Ms. Hunter didn’t just create supporting characters she created a world in which every character has grown throughout the series. She could write a book about each supporting character and it would be just as good. The loss of a character was devastating and i cried like i lost a friend. Also i love when the cover shows Jane in her fighting leathers because i can then imagine that when reading about Jane weaponing up for a fight. If this series has come to an end this was a good ending. Still SAD though.

I love Jane Yellowrock. I love the whole of Clan Yellowrock. Every last one of them. Not Leo, though. Well, maybe Leo a little bit. There is no graphic sex and very little cussing since Jane doesn’t allow it. There is plenty of blood and death because without that, there would be no vampires. There is a satisfying ending, though it’s not the end of the series. I have to tell you, without a lie, I cried. The sad lasted only a blink, so don’t let that stop anyone from reading. If you are wondering about the comment above regarding Faith Hunter is best ambush hunter, that only means that I was taken by surprise
I can tell that the series is starting it’s wind down but that does not mean there are not some spectacular action scenes and conspiracies not yet explored. Jane is again in a tight spot. So tight it’s accurate to say Rock meet hardspot. She has to think quickly because this is truly “IT”. If Leo dies, then the EV Titus gets control and it will not be an easy death. Leo is kind compared to this…this…this…butthead.
The story is not mired down by descriptions and fluff that is not necessary. It’s face paced, blow your socks off incredible. Jane didn’t laugh much in this story. The vampire duel is very serious stuff. She had a lot of work to do besides the duel though. Multitasking is obviously Jane’s forte. She has a strange man showing up to blind side her with news. Ricky Bo is around and that relationship just got far more complicated. (It pleases me that he is feeling a lot of remorse for leaving Jane.) The Younger brothers are stellar as always with Alex growing into a responsible adult more and more. Bruiser is beautiful – ‘nough said. Without spoiling anything, I can simply say this book had revelations and changes to everyone’s lives. I was blindsided more than once. Also, I swear to you, Jane makes the long game vampires play seemingly easy to figure out. She is one brilliant War Woman.

When Cold Reign came out I picked it up on a whim. Totally crazy move since the Jane Yellowrock series is very well established but I liked the blurb and said why not. I was instantly hooked! Now Dark Queen is out, and I have yet to start the series from the beginning like I have planned to do. Oh well! I’m not feeling that patient to go back and read ten plus books just so I can read this one.

ACK! Maybe I should have because Dark Queen screaming epic. There’s quite a few characters and lots of back-stories I am missing to fully understand what is going on. However, I get the gist that MOC Leo is issued a challenge from the European vamps and if Leo loses the city of New Orleans is forfeited. YIKES! No pressure there. So, it’s easy to guess a good chunk of the story is going to be dedicated to this battle and that has me kicking myself for not starting the series from the beginning because nothing says series finale like a giant showdown. And what a showdown it is! Lots of injuries, deaths and of course the biggest, baddest, battle of them all with the winner being… O.o

The other half, of course, is Jane herself who seems to have a few issues of her own to deal with. Nothing like having to deal with a blast from your past, especially when it’s one you don’t remember. Lost memories and family, and a battle for NOLO. No problem! Then there are those headaches of hers. Ummm… Yeah, that can’t be good.

Dark Queen is a solid edge of your seat read that builds and builds right up to the end. The end that I am sure is the ending to the series and then I am taken by surprise by that little shiny golden nugget at the end that tells me different. A cliffhanger. It’s not quite one of those that has me screaming ‘Holy crow what happens next!’ No, it’s a little nugget, a dangling carrot, that has me smiling because I know Jane Yellowrock will continue. Although that little cliffy nugget may make thing rather interesting between Jane and Bruiser.

This book seriously destroyed me but in a really good way if that makes any sense (and no I’m not a masochist ;). I was pretty late on the Jane Yellowrock train, it was around after the release of the 8th book that I started to read it but it quickly became one of my favorite series. Since then I diligently follow Jane and her crew. So after the events of Cold reign I don’t think anybody would be surprised about my level of anticipation and excitement. My verdict: This was probably the best book in the series, golden.
So after this brief prelude you could ask why I only gave it 4.5 stars. Well, there is only one reason for it. The east 40 or so percent of the book is absolutely a masterpiece, action-packed, emotional and just perfect, 5+ stars but unfortunately the beginning of the story was not as enjoyable for me. The book started out on the slower side, which wouldn’t generally be a problem but if I pair it with the events happening there then things make a bit more sense. Actually the first part of the book has a kind of melancholic atmosphere that has a purpose later in the plot and that part I enjoyed. Also there are a couple of big surprises and twists along the way that are absolutely amazing. However, there were a lot of things in it that were a bit out of place and not really Jane like behavior. I don’t want to leave any kind of spoiler so I’m going to leave it at that just a lot of things are left hanging out.
One more thing, that also slowed down the beginning of the book. Like the overwhelming amount of reintroduction of characters and the reappearing detailed presentation of Jane weapons and clothes, this dwindled down in the previous books. I mean, sometimes it’s great when the authors refresh our memories regarding characters especially when we are talking about a series this long but I still found it a bit excessive. Anyway, moving on.
The plot has a strange pace, it really eventful and exciting but I when I reached the halfway point the way things were going I honestly thought that the duel is not going to take place in this book. I think the whole spectacle would have deserved more attention but it was still explosive and shocking. Mss Hunter never was afraid to eliminate certain characters but she went full on in this installment. Blood was flowing, bullets were flying and heads were rolling. There are a couple of especially shocking and painful deaths in it but I have my theories about some of them. (Hoping never hurt anyone, right??) This book just elevated the series onto an whole new level and I honestly can’t even imagine what could come next.
Urban fantasy is one of my favorite genres and while these kind of books not really about the romance I still like a spark of it in my reads. Still strangely in this case I wish there were less than the miniscule amount that in it. Maybe because I really don’t like the whole Bruiser/Jane pairing. Sorry folks, he is not my choice for Jane.
The ending simply killed me but I also loved it because it was a phenomenally emotional, beautiful and clever way to build up a new direction for the next books in the series. I don’t know how I’m going to survive until it comes out.

Dark Queen by Faith Hunter is the 12th book in the Jane Yellowrock series. This is not a standalone type novel. It's definitely a part of a series and is a culmination of some plot points. It would seem this was originally to be the last book in the series, but part way through they decided to add two more books to it. It is still a very good book.

Leo, the master of the city of New Orleans, has been challenged to a blood challenge called the Sangre Duello by the leader of the European vampires. This is serious. If Leo and his people lose, then New Orleans will come under the European vamps control and people will suffer - humans, witches, vampires, everyone.

Jane, as Leo's enforcer, is very much involved in the preparations for the challenge. She is having to learn to accept that she can't control everything and must delegate.

The action is virtually nonstop. It starts early on with Jane answering the door and being shot at. It doesn't seem to let up much until after the challenge has been met. It's a fast-paced read.

I liked it all. Jane's flippancy infects Leo's handling of things but in a calculated way. I also liked the conversations she has with Beast who is "good ambush hunter" among other things. The touch of romance is nice and gives a brief respite from the action. There is also a subplot involving a possible blood relation of Jane's.

Is the ending a cliffhanger? In many ways, yes. It's still very readable as it is. I do look forward to the next book to see how the issues are resolved.

Overall, I give this book 4 out of 5 stars. It's a class act, well-written with good characterization. It kept my attention and piqued my interest as to where the series will go from here. Do not read this as your first Jane Yellowrock book ever.

Dark Queen by Faith Hunter was released May 1st, 2018 by Ace.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This in no way influences my opinions. This is my honest review.

I love Jane Yellowrock. I love Alex and I really love Eli. I love Bruiser....I want a Bruiser.........Love Edmond, and don't hate Ricky Boo like so many other fans do. A lot of what happened to him and Jane were not their fault, though both made mistakes. I really liked Leo and I hope we haven't heard the last of him. I have to believe he gave her a part of himself for just this purpose. Faith consider giving him back, please. This book made me cry more than once. The love between Jane and her kits/littermates is real. Eli is her rock, and Bruiser is her heart. Watching Leo change into the loving, good king despite all of his back dealing, sneaky planning. The scene between him and Bruiser along with the memories he showed Jane about their past, really made me cry. Leo did love his people despite how he always seemed to use them. Perhaps he was changed by Jane. The whole fight scene, where he lost through the cheating of time stealing....it was genius, but please Faith...there has to be a reason he was bitten, and still there was still barely a tissue connection and so I still have hope. We haven't heard the last of the MOC. I have heard the next book will be the last in the series. I understand if it is, but I will miss Jane. She must still show up in the Soulwood Series, which I love too.

I want to start off my review with a bit of a question. As a reader, how do you prepare yourself for the game changing book in a series? Do you put it off? Dread it? Devour it? Any of those answers could be correct.

For me, it was a mixture of both. It was clear from the last book that the proverbial crap was about to hit the fan. Jane was about to be tested far more than she had ever been before. And, I was right. Dark Queen while only a new title for Jane in the previous book took on an entirely new persona. Her already complicated life twists around, dipping and diving into depths that we could have never dreamed of. Jane is forced to make decisions she never wanted to have on her plate, and to become the one thing that she didn’t want, the Dark Queen. Blood is spilled, death dealt, and lives changed forever.

This is the story that changes the series.

The dark and uncertain undertones in Dark Queen are slightly softened with reminders of Jane’s relationships and her relationship with Beast. A new player on the field brings more memories of her past, and honestly, his presence didn’t make much sense to me until the end.

The end. How do I even go about explaining it? The unanswered questions, and hopes for a different outcome run rampant when this story comes to a close. Hopes for survival, hope for the future, and above all, hopes for love. Hunter has truly outdone herself with this book, and it makes the long wait for the next one even more torturous than in books past.

The very best yet!

I have read all 12 Jane Yellowrock books and All 3 Soulwood books. Most of the short stories, some of it more than one. Dark Queen is by far the BEST of them all. This saying something because ALL of them are great!!

I’m very glad to know there is more to come! Waiting a year to read it is going to be difficult.

Faith Hunter certainly knows how to play with emotions - not just those of her character but those of her readers as well. Ups and downs, tears and laughter. Endings... and beginnings.

Over this series, the characters have developed quirks and nuances that endear readers. And yet, these are not set in stone but evolving through the characters' experiences.

The plot is deep, twist upon twist, intrigues layered one upon another. They smack the reader in the face, and yet bring the thought, "I should have seen that coming."

If you've read the series, you need to jump into this now.
If you haven't read the series, you have no idea what you're missing.

Even though I was prepared for the worst event thanks to a good friends of mine, “Dark Queen” wrecked me. I don't know how to describe how much it affected me or how much it got me speculating about the future. I have my own hopes and ideas about where things can go from here but I hardly dare think them let alone say them out loud so I don't jinx it *settles in for a long wait*

I've been hoping for a resolution to the EV plotline for a few books now and I finally got my wish. I actually expected the duels to take a bigger chunk of the book but I think it was better this way. I believe that otherwise the story would have felt unbalanced. There was a well developed plot that led to the duels and I adored that. There's also an inkling as to what the next story arc will be about but I could be wrong. Still exploring Jane's past and what it means to be an ordinary (if such a word is even appropriate) skinwalker will definitely be a part of that future.

I listened to the audiobook and the narrator did a fabulous job once again. I loved this installment and need the next book NOW. We received numerous answers from previous plot lines but once again Ms. Hunter left us having new questions and uncertainties. This book is not a standalone and you need to read the whole series to understand the story.

Still enjoying the Jane Yellowrock series! I can’t believe we are so far in this series and there is still so much going on! You know it is a good series when it can hold your attention through 12 books and several short stories.

Just when you think you know everything about the JY world and you feel wrapped in a nice blanket....and you're tossed into the cold deep end of the pool. Thats how I felt delving into this book. What a rocky ride but well worth it as you go into uncharted places. It went so fast I had to go back several times just to keep up. Not wanting to give up any plot twists, you'll have to read it and some of the more animated reviews. Oh, and have some tissues handy. Can't wait for the next book.

I absolutely loved this book. In Dark Queen we finally see the battle between the American and European Vamps. This book is almost nonstop action, although the big battle isn't fought till more towards the end. I loved the action, and it had some major emotion going on. I highly recommend this book, and this whole series. READ IT. you will not be disappointed. Every book builds from the last and they just get better and better. Also i am so happy that this is not the last book, especially since it ended on the dreaded cliff hanger..

Faith Hunter delivers another nonstop ride of action and reaction. Jane and her Clan Yellowrock are really put through the wringer in this book, and we the readers are left alternately laughing, crying, cringing and gasping.
I'm still left feeling a bit bereft, I immediately started listening to DQ from the beginning again!

Faith Hunter delivers again. Jane Yellowrock and the NOLA vampire community tackle the hard issues facing those who hold and want to keep political power while the characters and their relationships grow and mature in believable ways. And then there's the exciting and well-drawn action scenes. In Jane's world violence hurts, the bad guys win a few (sometimes many) battles, but eventually Jane and her friends prevail. Not sure that they always "win" because in this installment prevailing comes at a brutal cost, but it is always a riveting ride. I don't know what the future will hold for Jane, but if and when she returns I will be first in line to read the next installment.

If you haven't read this entire series, go back to the beginning and start with the first book. It's worth the effort.

FANTASTIC BOOK!! I could not put it down!, Read it in one day, then bought the audio book and I am currently listening to it as I work. You have got to read her Jane Yellowrock series! I cannot wait for another one to come out! Faith Hunter is a master at fantasy!

Favorite Quote: “I wasn’t going to die. Not today. Not tomorrow. Not at the Sangre Duello at all. I had to stay alive. For my friends.”

Dark Queen picks up where Cold Reign left off. Jane Yellowrock has done everything she can to prepare for this moment; the Sangre Duello (blood duel) between Leo Pellister (Master of New Orleans) and Titus Flavius Vespasianus (Emperor of the European Mithrans). With her new family and all of New Orleans at risk, they MUST win because the consequences of losing will be devastating.

“My Jane. You sit in the dark. Do you grieve when no death has yet occurred?”

“People I love will die in the next night or two. People you love.”

“War is always hard. Death is inevitable, even for Mithrans.”

“I love how you comfort me.”

“There is no comfort in war, my Jane. Nor in death.”

**I want to note right off the bat that as of a year ago this book was supposed to be the end of the series. Hunter renegotiated to include two more books but this one was already in edits so some aspects of it may read oddly forbidding and final.**

The Jane Yellowrock series remains one of my favorite Urban Fantasy’s to date with its energetic action-packed scenes, strong emotional tone, unexpected humor, and bold characters who dance to their own beat. Heavily character driven, the story is told from Jane’s POV; a Cherokee skinwalker with a traumatic past and a fatalist nature who has gradually learned that even she deserves a happy ever after. Her gradual evolution from a feared vampire killing loner with little social skills and even less trust to a highly respected woman with a family, friends, and a lover has been quite a journey. Toss in her connection with her big cat, Beast, and it becomes an amusing and somewhat bittersweet adventure.

This review will be rather short and sweet because there is a lot happening and it’s really one huge spoiler (remember, this was originally written to be the end). I liken it to the Avengers Infinity War movie. If you’ve seen it, then you know what I mean. THINGS. HAPPEN. IN. HERE. Some will have you cheering, others yelling, and some will leave you in tears. Just remember, like the Avengers movie, there is more to come.

The well-plotted storyline is saturated with multiple storylines from the past as Hunter brings them all to the surface to close them out and prepare us for a new arc while ending this long-running one. I feel as if there were two parts to this book-the before the duel and the duel. Before the duel deals mainly with Jane and is extremely verbose and retrospective. Jane receives some startling and life-changing news that leaves her reeling most of the book. It drags her into the past and she reveals some new information about her past. We also see her reflecting on the choices she made in the past and how this is affecting her immortal soul. She holds quietly onto her religion and fears how she will be judged in the end.

“I have to take care of the people I love. That means…That means I have to become the monster.”

“Have you not always been a monster, my master?”

New characters are introduced with some recklessness while old favorites play pivotal roles. Nothing is what it seems and Hunter shows no favoritism as everyone stands before the chopping block. Eli and Alex remain my FAVORITE boys and are no longer employees but Jane’s brothers and like brothers, they have her back in everything. They have always accepted her as she is and that has been a healing balm Jane has needed for years. Edmund, Jane’s primo, also accepts Jane and guides her through vampire politics with affection and a firm hand. Bruiser and Jane have reached the point where insecurity is no longer a silent spectator. Jane accepts Bruiser’s love for her and he more then proves that in here.

“I have searched for you all of my life.”

Even Leo shows his softer side as he has his own preparations to undergo. He and Jane have had a long and contentious relationship punctuated by love and hate. I like that he remained true to form though he admits he too has evolved in all the years he and Jane have known each other.

“You honor me. Honor, I do not deserve in the human understanding of the term, for I have harmed you. My Jane, my Enforcer. My Dark Queen.”

Some new characters were definitely chosen to be disposable and I’m not 100 percent sure why. There was no real need for them as they did nothing for the conflict or the arc.

The second part-The Duel-puts us into fight mode. There are some mundane issues that deal with the housing and food logistics of so many people and Hunter decides to clue us into all that is happening behind the scenes. While this is what we have all been waiting for, it is very linear. Hunter presents everything in a very matter of fact tone. Beast definitely takes on a larger role and gives us plenty of clues as to what’s to come. Multiple fight scenes decorate this half though they aren’t drawn out. The ending is unexpected and quite shocking with Jane in the forefront in all her arse kicking, Beast shifting, weapon welding glory.

Dark Queen was what I wanted but not what I expected and it worked for me. Despite some minor issues, Hunter takes some serious risks in here as she propels her series to a new level while preparing us for the end. A minor cliffhanger leaves you on edge but not rightfully so. I can’t wait for book thirteen though at least I have the next Soulwood to read while waiting; title and date of release to be announced.

Grade: B+

OMG! Dark Queen is the best book I have read all year! It ties up many loose ends and answers many questions about the Jane Yellowrock series. When I got to the end, I shook the book, hoping more pages would magically appear. Thank you, Faith Hunter, for bringing Jane, Beast and the crew into my life.
I also have the audiobook. Khristine Hvam? You rocked the audio once again!

Omg this is a fantastic addition to the series. It might be one of the first that i actually cried. As usual, it will be a looooooong wait til the next one and that's totally disappointing. But it is what it is and i will be waiting anxiously for the next.

There were quite a few shocking moments in DARK QUEEN and I still can't decide how I feel about some of them.

I love how much Jane has grown and evolved in the series. She has a vast 'family' now and I love reading about their interactions. Beast continues to be enjoyable to listen too. Jane's relationship with Bruiser is in a great place and I enjoy their times together. We learn a lot more about Jane's past along with her in DARK QUEEN and I feel that a new character that was introduced will open a lot more of her past up to her and us.

I want to avoid spoilers so some of my issues with DARK QUEEN aren't going to be voiced. I felt there were some filler moments that could have been avoided. I don't really need to know the ins and outs of how Jane dresses over and over. I also didn't need to excessive detail about rooms that characters spent two seconds in. There were a lot of new characters introduced and I didn't always see their purpose in the story.

I didn't love the end. It was a bit slow which was understandable with what was going on, but the last events that happened felt stilted. Like one event was supposed to happen, but then it changed at the last minute and there wasn't time to elaborate. Things were left very uncertain.

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

This is the 12th book in the Jane Yellowrock series. This one was a DNF for me. In full disclosure I have struggled with the last couple books in this series; they have been a bit bizarre and felt really long to me.

I am not sure why I was struggling with this book so much; it just wasn't going anywhere fast for me. There were a few spots where Hunter spent a couple pages describing how Jane dressed for the day...this was just boring. I tried to sit down to read this multiple times and just found myself reading the same pages over and over because I just couldn’t stay focused on this story. I feel like the last few books have just been boring. Lots of new characters and lots of politics...not really my thing.

I am honestly not sure if it is me or the series that has changed but I struggled and struggled to get through this one and found myself constantly finding other things to do rather than read this book. Maybe I just don't have the patience I once did.

I am still enjoying Hunter's Soulwood series so I will continue on that one...but I am done with Jane and her peeps. I love them and this series will always hold a special place in my heart but it should have ended 3 or 4 books ago.

Overall this one was a DNF for me, it just could not hold my attention. I really loved the earlier books in this series but the last few I have really struggled with. There are just too many characters, too much politics, and the books feel really long. I am done with this series.

I was a huge Jane fan when the series began, but slowly lost interest as the books went on, and hadn’t read the previous two installments in this series. However when I read the description and found out the big battle was finally going to happen I decided to jump back in. While the story did hold my attention it wasn’t the kind of book I couldn’t put down. It felt like there was a lot of rehashing of relationships and reminders of who characters were and what they did in previous books. I’m not opposed to memory refreshers and I certainly did need a few, but too much time was wasted on this person did this and that person did that, and they are connected because of the other.

I was not a fan out Rick’s exit at all. It felt to me like his character was forced out to make room for Bruiser. I was happy he was back but I felt like he was way underutilized. He was in town, but he might as well have been on skype for all the interaction they had. I get that she is in love with Bruiser, but it seems like his reappearance should’ve had more on an emotional impact. I also felt like her brother was just taking up space. Since the beginning of the series Jane has wondered where she came from and if anyone like her is still around. But both she and her brother kept each other at a distance for petty reasons. They’re both grown and he was way more life experience than her, it just seemed like they would’ve connected more or Jane would’ve had a thousand questions primed and ready.

The real thing that bothers me is that this series has taken a similar turn to Anita Blake’s. Not with all the sex, but making the heroine go from Vampire hunter to being so wrapped up in the Vampire world she actually becomes Queen. Giving the heroine too much magic basically making her unstoppable, instead of working with what she has and with the help of allies to solve conflicts. That being said I am interested in the next book. Since her family and Rick were basically washed over there is a lot to explore there. Also the way it ended I would love it if she did get a reboot of sorts. It would be interesting to see who Jane would be if she had family (bio and by choice) at her side and knowledge of what she is and could become.

This is the second book in a row by Faith Hunter that has had an unpleasant ending. I loved about 3/4 of this story then she took the beautiful evolved thing this series had become, doused it in diesel fuel and lit it on fire. I hated the ending, absolutely hated it. It's a disservice to every reader who has grown to love Jane for who she has become and the characters that have grown with and around her. If this is the end of the entire series (and it sure had that knell of death finality) I may not read any of her books again. From someone who's been reading her work since her Seraph books, yes, it was that bad.

In book 12 of the Jane Yellowrock series, an epic battle with the European vampires has long been in the making with several skirmishes in the earlier books, some won and others lost. DARK QUEEN culminates with all the preparation by Enforcer Jane Yellowrock and her team working with Leo, vampire Master of the City of New Orleans and his numerous other titles for other parts of the country. Jane Yellowrock not surprisingly deals with several complex issues at a time including trying to have a relationship with Bruiser, handle all the minutiae of the upcoming duel that will decide everyone’s fate as well as catching traitors, and dealing with someone who may have a very personal connection or be a clever enemy.

Jane has to accept the fact that people she loves and other folks of the natural and supernatural kind may not survive this battle. Beast has become even more assertive and as usual, knows things that Jane does not, some of which may have devastating consequences. All the major players are here including Jane’s significant other, George Dumas, and her ex, Rick LaFleur. Because of Were politics, Jane and Rick are thrust into a new dynamic that has all kinds of potential for trouble for whatever kind of relationship they do or don’t have. I am sure Brusier will not be amused either way even though he understands how tricksey things are with supernaturals in the mix.

Readers of this series will be left with many strong emotions about this book’s outcome, many of which have been building for quite a while. Some questions about Jane’s background are answered, but others are raised. Feelings will run high as this is a very gut-wrenching story in some respects for fans who have followed the series. Ms. Hunter deftly runs the reader through several emotional wringers and powerful scenes especially during the final battles. Jane’s personal and professional story comes to a major turning point which may seem like a cliffhanger, but thankfully, at least two more books are to follow so after this very intense ride, we are left with the happy thought of more to come.

If you have followed Jane from the beginning, this book will make your heart thunder and your mind reel. I hardly know what to say without destroying the end of the book. All I can say is that you should proceed immediately to read "Dark Queen." I don't think it is a story you should miss.

Mithran politics, blood trials, blood and gore and treachery on all sides I am used to reading about. Where Faith Hunter has gone herein is way outside anything I thought possible. I am now anxiously pacing, knowing that I must be patient, that another Jane Yellowrock book cannot happen overnight, but oh do I want to know where we go from here!! Well done, indeed, Ms Hunter.

This great book ties up a lot of loose ends....sets up more. A very wild and dangerous time for Jane. The ending was both sad and hopeful and not a cliffhanger....just a pause in the books..........I WANT THE NEXT ONE! Get it and a box of tissues and enjoy the ride.

Let me tell you a story, before I start my review. I saw a sign up on Faith Hunter’s fan page, looking for reviewers, and I figured I’d put my name in. I mean, why not? Sure, I deal with a serious case of imposter syndrome at times, but I love this series and having a decent chunk of reviews under my belt certainly couldn’t hurt my odds. I didn’t hear anything about my request, so I didn’t really let myself think about it much (no news is good news, right?). Then one day I came home to find this gorgeous and wonderful book waiting for me. I may or may not have danced around the house with it. Just a little bit. The moral of this story is: if you ever doubt yourself about your worth, but really want to give something a try, go ahead and put your name in anyway. You never know what the outcome could be.
Dark Queen is the latest installment of the Jane Yellowrock series, and to say I’ve been chomping at the bit to read it would be putting things far too lightly. I’m sure I’m not the only fan that was eagerly counting down the days for this release, but that’s part of the reason I’m so excited to be reviewing this novel a little bit early.
Faith Hunter has been building up to this point for a while, a fact many of her fans are almost painfully aware of. We’ve seen Jane build up her forces, friendships, and contacts all to survive this point. And it’s finally here. After all these years of buildup, the Sanguine Duello is finally upon us.
First I would just like to say that this novel utterly destroyed me, and any book lover will know exactly what I mean by this statement. Every set of emotions capable of being felt by a human being were experienced during my read through. I almost with I could read it for the first time all over again, but I’m not sure I could handle it.
For the sake of honesty I should tell you that before reading Dark Queen I completely kept my head in the sand about what was going to happen. I refused to even read the description of the book (weird I know, but I sometimes do that with series I get really excited about). I didn’t go snippet hunting, and I flat out refused to think about the possibilities that could happen here. Normally this tactic helps me survive between one book and another, but I think in this case it kept me from being prepared for what was in store. I’m going to assume that people reading my review aren’t going to be following this practice (duh) and I think that’s a good call.
When I look back and think about Dark Queen, I think about it in two distinct parts. There’s the huge chunk of the novel where Jane and crew are dealing with lots of other problems (as tends to happen – when it rains it pours and all that), including some immensely personal issues for Jane; and then there’s the last part of the novel that includes the Sanguine Duello.
I loved both ‘parts’ of this novel equally, but for completely different reasons. During the first half of the book (not an accurate statement – I didn’t actually take the time to measure how big each ‘part’ is) I was absorbed in the day to day issues of New Orleans, from the major planning going on, to the politicking, to the personal issues emerging and complicating matters. Now, I’m personally a huge fan of vampire novels that include politics, so I literally will gobble up any scrap given to me that feels like a master vampire has been making grand plans. And trust me; Leo has been scheming up a storm. It was actually really satisfying to see everything he’s been working on and planning for the last few years come to fruition (especially the parts he hid from everyone).
The other nice part about the first part of the book is that I was able to convince myself that the Sanguine Duello wasn’t actually happening in this novel. The longer everything else went on, the more convinced I became that this was going to be another novel building up to it. I was personally okay with that, since I’ve been enjoying the buildup.
All that being said, I’m actually happy that the Sanguine Duello was included in this novel. I hadn’t realized how nervous I was about it until I was sitting there on the edge of my seat, eagerly devouring each detail of the duel.
This obviously brings me to the second ‘half’ of the novel. The Sanguine Duello and everything directly involving it. Faith Hunter put so many details into this part; it’s hard to accept it as anything other than reality. You can really see how much work she put into it, which I both respect and appreciate, especially when considering how difficult this part must have been to write (not just in the emotional sense – I imagine writing out fights occurring at vampire speeds would be incredibly difficult).
As far as the fight scenes are concerned, they were artistically done and well described, and they also weren’t drawn out. I know it sounds weird for me to be happy about that, but as anybody with fighting skills will tell you; the best fights do not last long. Throw in vampire reflexes and speed and there’s really no reason for the fights to go on for hours; as a bonus that means your heart will not be in your throat for long. You know, until the next round of fighting begins. Then you get to go through it all over again.
I should warn you; this novel does end in a bit of a cliffhanger. I don’t think it’s the type that’ll have most fans pulling out their hair (though I could be wrong on that count). Actually, when I first finished reading it, I wasn’t sure if it was the end of the series or not. I found myself oddly tranquil about the idea of it. I was obviously hoping to get more Jane novels, but at the same time the ending given was so true to Jane’s character and the story Faith Hunter has been trying to tell us that I couldn’t bring myself to be upset about it. Before you start to worry: I looked it up, we’re getting at least two more novels (and more than that, with any luck) so there’s no need to be getting ready to say goodbye to Jane anytime soon.
All in all this novel really did completely wreck me, and I have never been so happy to be able to say that about a novel. I love series that make me feel emotionally connected to its characters, as is the case here, series that get my invested in the events that are going on, series that make you care. Jane Yellowrock is absolutely one of those series. I love the characters that Faith Hunter has put into this world, and the ones I don’t love I find myself loving to hate them instead (as I’m sure was intended). I love Jane, Beast, the Younger brothers, Bruiser, all of them. I love the complexity of Jane and Beast’s abilities, and that those abilities actually have consequences. I love the world and city that the series is set in, as do I love the politics, both of the vampire and interspecies variety. And I absolutely can’t wait until the next novel is out.

I will admit at the outset that I have read and enjoyed every Jane Yellowrock book that's been published so I began reading Dark Queen with a bit of preferential bias, but what happened as I read that book was magical.

Dark Queen thrilled me with all of the plots and mysteries set out and later resolved in this tale of supernatural people coming together to fight some of the worst scum of the supernatural realm, using their various talents, skills, and willingness to connect as a group in order to save the US community of paranormal residents.

Faith Hunter has pulled together long-standing loose threads in this book and woven them into a powerful tale of emotional growth and increasing appreciation for each other's gifts freely given. The reader sees Alex begin to 'adult" as we say, Eli is more comfortable accepting Jane as his sister of the heart, and Bruiser opens himself up to Jane in ways he's never allowed himself to be in prior books. Characters who came off as being somewhat negative in earlier stories find the gold within themselves in this book as survival of the group becomes more dependent on their using their better qualities. Emotionally, this book is a roller coaster - and well worth the ride. In it, Jane makes peace with a lot of different things about her nature that once caused her sorrow or grief, and comes to a point of acceptance most of us have felt one time or another when we've come to our wits end and have to accept what we're fighting against. Especially if that happens to be ourselves. Please read this book!

You may read that some readers were confused or not pleased with the ending, but remember, this is not the last of the series and as you read to the end of the book, remember to think of the possibilities tossed to you, as the reader, for what can happen in the next book. I loved it and recommend this story whole-heartedly.

There were quite a few shocking moments in DARK QUEEN and I still can't decide how I feel about some of them.

I love how much Jane has grown and evolved in the series. She has a vast 'family' now and I love reading about their interactions. Beast continues to be enjoyable to listen too. Jane's relationship with Bruiser is in a great place and I enjoy their times together. We learn a lot more about Jane's past along with her in DARK QUEEN and I feel that a new character that was introduced will open a lot more of her past up to her and us.

I want to avoid spoilers so some of my issues with DARK QUEEN aren't going to be voiced. I felt there were some filler moments that could have been avoided. I don't really need to know the ins and outs of how Jane dresses over and over. I also didn't need to excessive detail about rooms that characters spent two seconds in. There were a lot of new characters introduced and I didn't always see their purpose in the story.

I didn't love the end. It was a bit slow which was understandable with what was going on, but the last events that happened felt stilted. Like one event was supposed to happen, but then it changed at the last minute and there wasn't time to elaborate. Things were left very uncertain.

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

This is the 12th book in the Jane Yellowrock series. This one was a DNF for me. In full disclosure I have struggled with the last couple books in this series; they have been a bit bizarre and felt really long to me.

I am not sure why I was struggling with this book so much; it just wasn't going anywhere fast for me. There were a few spots where Hunter spent a couple pages describing how Jane dressed for the day...this was just boring. I tried to sit down to read this multiple times and just found myself reading the same pages over and over because I just couldn’t stay focused on this story. I feel like the last few books have just been boring. Lots of new characters and lots of politics...not really my thing.

I am honestly not sure if it is me or the series that has changed but I struggled and struggled to get through this one and found myself constantly finding other things to do rather than read this book. Maybe I just don't have the patience I once did.

I am still enjoying Hunter's Soulwood series so I will continue on that one...but I am done with Jane and her peeps. I love them and this series will always hold a special place in my heart but it should have ended 3 or 4 books ago.

Overall this one was a DNF for me, it just could not hold my attention. I really loved the earlier books in this series but the last few I have really struggled with. There are just too many characters, too much politics, and the books feel really long. I am done with this series.

I was a huge Jane fan when the series began, but slowly lost interest as the books went on, and hadn’t read the previous two installments in this series. However when I read the description and found out the big battle was finally going to happen I decided to jump back in. While the story did hold my attention it wasn’t the kind of book I couldn’t put down. It felt like there was a lot of rehashing of relationships and reminders of who characters were and what they did in previous books. I’m not opposed to memory refreshers and I certainly did need a few, but too much time was wasted on this person did this and that person did that, and they are connected because of the other.

I was not a fan out Rick’s exit at all. It felt to me like his character was forced out to make room for Bruiser. I was happy he was back but I felt like he was way underutilized. He was in town, but he might as well have been on skype for all the interaction they had. I get that she is in love with Bruiser, but it seems like his reappearance should’ve had more on an emotional impact. I also felt like her brother was just taking up space. Since the beginning of the series Jane has wondered where she came from and if anyone like her is still around. But both she and her brother kept each other at a distance for petty reasons. They’re both grown and he was way more life experience than her, it just seemed like they would’ve connected more or Jane would’ve had a thousand questions primed and ready.

The real thing that bothers me is that this series has taken a similar turn to Anita Blake’s. Not with all the sex, but making the heroine go from Vampire hunter to being so wrapped up in the Vampire world she actually becomes Queen. Giving the heroine too much magic basically making her unstoppable, instead of working with what she has and with the help of allies to solve conflicts. That being said I am interested in the next book. Since her family and Rick were basically washed over there is a lot to explore there. Also the way it ended I would love it if she did get a reboot of sorts. It would be interesting to see who Jane would be if she had family (bio and by choice) at her side and knowledge of what she is and could become.

This is the second book in a row by Faith Hunter that has had an unpleasant ending. I loved about 3/4 of this story then she took the beautiful evolved thing this series had become, doused it in diesel fuel and lit it on fire. I hated the ending, absolutely hated it. It's a disservice to every reader who has grown to love Jane for who she has become and the characters that have grown with and around her. If this is the end of the entire series (and it sure had that knell of death finality) I may not read any of her books again. From someone who's been reading her work since her Seraph books, yes, it was that bad.