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Readers` Reviews
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
faisal
4.5 stars-- SPIDER’S TRAP is the thirteenth full-length installment in Jennifer Estep’s adult, contemporary Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series focusing on elemental assassin Gin Blanco aka The Spider. With her dual elements of stone and ice, Gin is a one woman force of nature’s power.
Told from first person point of view (Gin Blanco) SPIDER’S TRAP finds Gin facing a new but familiar enemy, in the fictional town of Ashland, whose elemental strength may be more than Gin had anticipated. As the new head of Ashland’s underworld, Gin must mediate between rival kingpins and settle disputes, all the while trying to ward off the attacks against the people that she loves. When an enemy from the past resurfaces looking for revenge, Gin makes it her mission to stay one step ahead-but is Gin the target or is someone else?
SPIDER’S TRAP brings together all of Gin’s elemental friends, vampires, giants and dwarves. Owen returns as Gin’s love interest but the romance is always limited in UF storylines; Finn continues to make impressions on the ladies; and memories of Fletcher continue to direct Gin on her path of knowledge and understanding. Gin and Bria’s relationship is no longer combative and hasn’t been for several storylines; Jo Jo and Sophia continue to play their supporting roles as protector and healer.
Jennifer Estep infuses some of the backstory and history between Gin and the previous evil elementals who have threatened our heroine or wreaked havoc on her family and friends. There is a familiarity to the storyline as old stories are revisited and the past comes full circle; Fletcher’s letters, files and lessons are a major part of the storyline (and series) premise as Gin continues her mentor’s job.
SPIDER’S TRAP is an engaging and intriguing addition to Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series that blends magic with the elementals; the supernatural with reality. There is the usual mayhem, violence, blood shed and death, but Gin, more or less, comes out of this adventure unharmed-others may not be so lucky. Gin’s evolution throughout the series finds our heroine stopping to consider all outcomes before jumping head first into a battle she may not be ready to lose-Gin’s overconfidence is often her Achilles heal.
Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series and Gin Blanco are a ‘go to’ read every time.
Told from first person point of view (Gin Blanco) SPIDER’S TRAP finds Gin facing a new but familiar enemy, in the fictional town of Ashland, whose elemental strength may be more than Gin had anticipated. As the new head of Ashland’s underworld, Gin must mediate between rival kingpins and settle disputes, all the while trying to ward off the attacks against the people that she loves. When an enemy from the past resurfaces looking for revenge, Gin makes it her mission to stay one step ahead-but is Gin the target or is someone else?
SPIDER’S TRAP brings together all of Gin’s elemental friends, vampires, giants and dwarves. Owen returns as Gin’s love interest but the romance is always limited in UF storylines; Finn continues to make impressions on the ladies; and memories of Fletcher continue to direct Gin on her path of knowledge and understanding. Gin and Bria’s relationship is no longer combative and hasn’t been for several storylines; Jo Jo and Sophia continue to play their supporting roles as protector and healer.
Jennifer Estep infuses some of the backstory and history between Gin and the previous evil elementals who have threatened our heroine or wreaked havoc on her family and friends. There is a familiarity to the storyline as old stories are revisited and the past comes full circle; Fletcher’s letters, files and lessons are a major part of the storyline (and series) premise as Gin continues her mentor’s job.
SPIDER’S TRAP is an engaging and intriguing addition to Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series that blends magic with the elementals; the supernatural with reality. There is the usual mayhem, violence, blood shed and death, but Gin, more or less, comes out of this adventure unharmed-others may not be so lucky. Gin’s evolution throughout the series finds our heroine stopping to consider all outcomes before jumping head first into a battle she may not be ready to lose-Gin’s overconfidence is often her Achilles heal.
Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series and Gin Blanco are a ‘go to’ read every time.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
eboni
First Date: I certainly didn’t expect that we’d wind up here, after all this time, Gin. Here? At the top of the underworld food chain? The as-yet undisputed Queen of the Underworld? Bet you didn’t expect it, either, did you? But that’s what happens when you kick baddie ass all over the place, leaving no one else powerful enough to take the crown. And you’re mighty powerful, for all that you’d like to just do your thing and cook. Cheers to you, Ms. Gin! *raises a glass in your direction*
Second Date: Of course, this means that there are going to be even more people gunning for you (didn’t think that was possible, after all the wannabes that tried to assassinate you in the past couple of books) and you’re going to have to be a bit more political, too. No killing absolutely everyone. Well, you can but…then all the bad guys would be gone and what would you do? Despite your protests, you really aren’t one to be at home, retired and knitting or something. I’m pretty darned impressed that, after 12 prior stories, Gin’s plotline hasn’t fallen into the every-book’s-the-same trap that a lot of series become. The story’s still fresh, still twisty.
Third Date: And speaking of twists, what in the hell was that? I’m pretty sure that Gin was as shocked as I was and I don’t know what Gin’s going to do, especially since someone she loves is threatened. Well, I do know — she’s going to get out there and kick some arse, once she gets over her shock. Holding onto the title of Queen of the Underworld was never going to be easy and, even though she really didn’t want that title, Gin’s not about to let a shadowy boss get the better of her. These dates with Gin are always heart-pounding, funny, violent and, because Gin’s no slack in the kitchen, always leave me hungry (because I don’t like to cook. Gin, you wanna come over and make me one of your beyond-delicious-sounding meals? I’ll provide the drinks!).
Second Date: Of course, this means that there are going to be even more people gunning for you (didn’t think that was possible, after all the wannabes that tried to assassinate you in the past couple of books) and you’re going to have to be a bit more political, too. No killing absolutely everyone. Well, you can but…then all the bad guys would be gone and what would you do? Despite your protests, you really aren’t one to be at home, retired and knitting or something. I’m pretty darned impressed that, after 12 prior stories, Gin’s plotline hasn’t fallen into the every-book’s-the-same trap that a lot of series become. The story’s still fresh, still twisty.
Third Date: And speaking of twists, what in the hell was that? I’m pretty sure that Gin was as shocked as I was and I don’t know what Gin’s going to do, especially since someone she loves is threatened. Well, I do know — she’s going to get out there and kick some arse, once she gets over her shock. Holding onto the title of Queen of the Underworld was never going to be easy and, even though she really didn’t want that title, Gin’s not about to let a shadowy boss get the better of her. These dates with Gin are always heart-pounding, funny, violent and, because Gin’s no slack in the kitchen, always leave me hungry (because I don’t like to cook. Gin, you wanna come over and make me one of your beyond-delicious-sounding meals? I’ll provide the drinks!).
Spider's Revenge (Elemental Assassin series Book 5) :: Spider's Bite (Elemental Assassin, Book 1) :: Heart of Venom (Elemental Assassin) :: Black Widow (Elemental Assassin) :: Web of Lies (Elemental Assassin, Book 2)
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
kenneth p
Surprise, surprise… a business meeting turns bloody as another punch is thrown at Gin only the real surprise is just how familiar her shadowy assailant is in this pulse-pounding urban fantasy.
Let’s go with the sweet side of things first…well maybe not so sweet as scorching hot because the passion between Gin and Owen is still burning hot and growing strong. Okay enough of that. This story is lots of thrills and chills as Gin finds herself fighting battles, slinging magic and trying to discover just who she needs to kill this time and the pressure is on as whomever it is doesn’t seem to be all that worried about who else gets caught in the crosshairs and one thing you can say about Gin you can go after her all you want, but you leave her family and friends out of it. Magical battles with some truly impressive techniques and surprises spice things up just as explosions blow everything up which means there is never ending excitement and thrills to be found.
Well written scenes and details along with an abundance of intriguing events capture the imagination and ensure that the reader can’t put the story down until they have read every last word. Of course, Gin is such a kick ass heroine that takes her punches and keeps on rolling so the reader is always drawn into one of her stories because really how can you not want to know what’s happening and this story has quite a bit of emotional turmoil as well that adds lots of depth as it brings up memories and shows enemies in a new light.
I really can’t get enough of the Elemental Assassin series as it just keeps getting better and better with surprising twists that ensures I can’t possibly know what’s going to happen next, which means I really can’t wait to read the next one especially since I have a feeling that cold-hearted woman has just found herself on the wrong side of the Spider.
4 ½ STARS
Let’s go with the sweet side of things first…well maybe not so sweet as scorching hot because the passion between Gin and Owen is still burning hot and growing strong. Okay enough of that. This story is lots of thrills and chills as Gin finds herself fighting battles, slinging magic and trying to discover just who she needs to kill this time and the pressure is on as whomever it is doesn’t seem to be all that worried about who else gets caught in the crosshairs and one thing you can say about Gin you can go after her all you want, but you leave her family and friends out of it. Magical battles with some truly impressive techniques and surprises spice things up just as explosions blow everything up which means there is never ending excitement and thrills to be found.
Well written scenes and details along with an abundance of intriguing events capture the imagination and ensure that the reader can’t put the story down until they have read every last word. Of course, Gin is such a kick ass heroine that takes her punches and keeps on rolling so the reader is always drawn into one of her stories because really how can you not want to know what’s happening and this story has quite a bit of emotional turmoil as well that adds lots of depth as it brings up memories and shows enemies in a new light.
I really can’t get enough of the Elemental Assassin series as it just keeps getting better and better with surprising twists that ensures I can’t possibly know what’s going to happen next, which means I really can’t wait to read the next one especially since I have a feeling that cold-hearted woman has just found herself on the wrong side of the Spider.
4 ½ STARS
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
beth lundgreen
Just when you thought Gin might get a break... ;-) In this installment of the Elemental Assassin series, Gin is faced with a mad bomber. Add to that, the bomber is a strong elemental with a talent for metal, and she has a problem. Just to make things exciting, the bomber's sister is a crime boss in Ashland who covets Gin's new role as Big Boss. Throw in a few giants and dwarves, and this is the kind of exciting adventure that we have all come to expect from the Spider.
One thing I have to say for anyone who hasn't read all of the previous books in this series: READ THEM IN ORDER! Yes, each book is a stand-alone story, but there's a bigger storyline that will only make sense if you read them in order. Something else, which for anyone who has read this far into the series shouldn't be a revelation, there is a formula to the books in this series. Gin is the hero, she will save the day from some nasty bad guy who likes to hurt people. But Gin is always the smartest, strongest, and most determined, so she wins. If you're not okay with that, don't read these stories. I happen to love it. For me, the fun comes from exploring the world Ms. Estep has created. Each book gives more details and has new twists on old themes. I love the world building. I also love the character development. All of the main characters have come a long way since the first book, and I can't wait to find out what happens next. From the hints about the mysterious Ice Heart, it sounds like the next story will be great too! :-)
One thing I have to say for anyone who hasn't read all of the previous books in this series: READ THEM IN ORDER! Yes, each book is a stand-alone story, but there's a bigger storyline that will only make sense if you read them in order. Something else, which for anyone who has read this far into the series shouldn't be a revelation, there is a formula to the books in this series. Gin is the hero, she will save the day from some nasty bad guy who likes to hurt people. But Gin is always the smartest, strongest, and most determined, so she wins. If you're not okay with that, don't read these stories. I happen to love it. For me, the fun comes from exploring the world Ms. Estep has created. Each book gives more details and has new twists on old themes. I love the world building. I also love the character development. All of the main characters have come a long way since the first book, and I can't wait to find out what happens next. From the hints about the mysterious Ice Heart, it sounds like the next story will be great too! :-)
★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆
jonathon lapak
I had high hopes for this book. Right around page 145 though it became a struggle. Why you ask? Because Gin, The Spider, the sharp devious master assassin, left the building and was replaced by, as far as I can tell, an idiot.
I VIVIDLY remember recall my first introduction to Gin. Sitting in a group therapy session in an asylum waiting, like a spider, to kill her prey. She was careful, thoughtful, and deliberate. Where that Gin went, I don't know. But I'd like her back.
That Gin would have never stumbled around a garden like a drunk elephant after a metal elemental she knew next to nothing about while wielding a metal knife, then been surprised when the thing was turned on her!!! And then upon reflection on the night failures continue to think of her metal knives as a good idea. Then follow that up by, again without any recon, attacking senselessly again, and losing. Again.
These were not the only problems with the book. As with many of the recent installments in this series the biggest problem was lack of character development. Instead of having pages showcasing Gin charging thoughtlessly into situations, Ms. Estep could have easily spent 100 pages of this book focusing on the relationships between the characters. In particular, Owen and Gin's relationship. To call it stagnant and boring would be an understatement. Real people are dynamic, so are relationships. Yet in the last 4 books the characters have not changed and have remained caricatures. No depth. No development. Which for me as a reader means: no interest in continuing to read this series.
To say it was a struggle to finish this book is an understatement. This series should have ended with Mabs death. I give it two stars only because I did finish it. And that's my standard for a two star rating.
I VIVIDLY remember recall my first introduction to Gin. Sitting in a group therapy session in an asylum waiting, like a spider, to kill her prey. She was careful, thoughtful, and deliberate. Where that Gin went, I don't know. But I'd like her back.
That Gin would have never stumbled around a garden like a drunk elephant after a metal elemental she knew next to nothing about while wielding a metal knife, then been surprised when the thing was turned on her!!! And then upon reflection on the night failures continue to think of her metal knives as a good idea. Then follow that up by, again without any recon, attacking senselessly again, and losing. Again.
These were not the only problems with the book. As with many of the recent installments in this series the biggest problem was lack of character development. Instead of having pages showcasing Gin charging thoughtlessly into situations, Ms. Estep could have easily spent 100 pages of this book focusing on the relationships between the characters. In particular, Owen and Gin's relationship. To call it stagnant and boring would be an understatement. Real people are dynamic, so are relationships. Yet in the last 4 books the characters have not changed and have remained caricatures. No depth. No development. Which for me as a reader means: no interest in continuing to read this series.
To say it was a struggle to finish this book is an understatement. This series should have ended with Mabs death. I give it two stars only because I did finish it. And that's my standard for a two star rating.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
aayush
Gin Blanco returns in book 13 of the Elemental Assassin series. This time around, Gin is dealing with being the head honcho of the underworld. She is mediating a dispute between two underworld bosses when someone attempts to blow her up with a bomb. With a nagging feeling that something is familiar with the rune left behind, Gin has to look deep in her past to figure out who is after her before it is too late.
Gin’s friends help out, but she now has the benefit of having the help of some underworld bosses for information now as well. Unlikely truces, betrayal, and a ton of kick butt fighting happen in this installment. It makes this book hard to put down. And we have a new lead on who the next big bad villain will be. It’s going to be an interesting next few books in the series to say the least. I highly suggest the series if you haven’t read it yet!
Gin’s friends help out, but she now has the benefit of having the help of some underworld bosses for information now as well. Unlikely truces, betrayal, and a ton of kick butt fighting happen in this installment. It makes this book hard to put down. And we have a new lead on who the next big bad villain will be. It’s going to be an interesting next few books in the series to say the least. I highly suggest the series if you haven’t read it yet!
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
olesya o deliyska
ARC from NetGalley!
Spider's Trap begins when Gin is having some issues being the leader of the Underworld. Things aren't going according to her plan, and when it seems like someone is out to kill her again, but willing to take out her friends, she must figure it out before it is too late. However, Gin will need more help then normal, and she may end up losing someone she loves if she doesn't get things together quickly. especially if she isn't actually the target.
This book was good. It seemed kind of typical someone from Gin's past paying her a visit, and trying to kill her. But this one had a little bit of a twist. And towards the end I was in tears. I couldn't believe what happened. It about drove me nuts. Then the actually ending was a major surprise, and set up the next book really well. I'm really looking forward to the next one now.
The only thing I wish would happen is some growth between Gin and Owen. I wish their relationship would change to something more some how. Other then that this one was awesome! Now, I'm super excited for the next one.
Spider's Trap begins when Gin is having some issues being the leader of the Underworld. Things aren't going according to her plan, and when it seems like someone is out to kill her again, but willing to take out her friends, she must figure it out before it is too late. However, Gin will need more help then normal, and she may end up losing someone she loves if she doesn't get things together quickly. especially if she isn't actually the target.
This book was good. It seemed kind of typical someone from Gin's past paying her a visit, and trying to kill her. But this one had a little bit of a twist. And towards the end I was in tears. I couldn't believe what happened. It about drove me nuts. Then the actually ending was a major surprise, and set up the next book really well. I'm really looking forward to the next one now.
The only thing I wish would happen is some growth between Gin and Owen. I wish their relationship would change to something more some how. Other then that this one was awesome! Now, I'm super excited for the next one.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
adhityarama
**I received an e-ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
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Keep your friends close but your enemies within stabbing distance. ~ Gin Blanco
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Gin doesn't have time for pity parties... if someone isn't trying to kill her, then there's someone out to get a friend or family member. In this case, a connection from so long ago she hadn't made the connection until her dreams pull it to the front of her mind.
This is another action-packed chapter to The Spider's story that pulls you in and drags you along for the ride. For those familiar with the series, it is no surprise to know there are close calls with death, violence, sex, and great loyalty to friends and family in this book. For those who aren't familiar with the series,... run to grab the first book, and don't stop reading 'til you hit the end of this one!
-------------------------------
Keep your friends close but your enemies within stabbing distance. ~ Gin Blanco
-------------------------------
Gin doesn't have time for pity parties... if someone isn't trying to kill her, then there's someone out to get a friend or family member. In this case, a connection from so long ago she hadn't made the connection until her dreams pull it to the front of her mind.
This is another action-packed chapter to The Spider's story that pulls you in and drags you along for the ride. For those familiar with the series, it is no surprise to know there are close calls with death, violence, sex, and great loyalty to friends and family in this book. For those who aren't familiar with the series,... run to grab the first book, and don't stop reading 'til you hit the end of this one!
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
rajasekhar
Having received "Spider's Trap" by Jennifer Estep in a Giveaway and fact that I had never read an urban fantasy before, I was looking forward to reading it. I really enjoyed it. It seems that Spider/Gin Blanco is no longer just an assassin but is now the Head of the Underworld where she has to keep order among crooks, killers and thieves. One of her first duties is to determine who gets the coin laundries to launder their money. She saves her friend's riverboat from being blown up by finding and getting rid of the planted bomb. Yes, there is plenty of action. Spider's philosophy seems to be (as stated on the book's cover) "Keep your friends close but your enemies within stabbing distance."
It reminded me of some of the tales on TV my grandchildren watched. As this is the 13th in the series, I'll read her earlier ones.
It reminded me of some of the tales on TV my grandchildren watched. As this is the 13th in the series, I'll read her earlier ones.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
nomnomdom
Gin Bianco, AKA the Spider, is the head of Ashland's underworld, and she is trapped by it. So much for anonymity.
With her new position, she is a bigger threat and thus, everyone is out to get her. Yet, it is past events that always come back to haunt her. And this novel shows just how true that is. Trapped and fighting for her life, Gin may have met her match in this blast from the past.
Will she survive and take charge, or will another climb to the top of the heap?
With her new position, she is a bigger threat and thus, everyone is out to get her. Yet, it is past events that always come back to haunt her. And this novel shows just how true that is. Trapped and fighting for her life, Gin may have met her match in this blast from the past.
Will she survive and take charge, or will another climb to the top of the heap?
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
arpit
Jennifer Estep returns to Ashland for another tale of a Spider's Trap (paper from Pocket) . In this 13th tale Gin Blanc, assassin with ice and stone powers and owner of a barbecue restaurant called the Pork Pit In her part time she is the head of Ashland’s gangs, after killing all the previous heads and pretenders. It is not a role she wants, and it brings with it lots of danger. When a man bent on revenge, with powerful metal abilities, comes town and sets off bombs near her, it gets her involved and, as usual, almost killed. For a series that ended about six books ago, its still a lot of fun.Review printed by Philadelphia Weekly Press
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
tobie hand
As always, a delightful trip with my favorite assassin! I love that Estep is exceptionally talented at keeping this series fresh and entertaining. This series is one of only three that I attempt to read as soon as a new book comes out. I always enjoy when we get glimpses of Gin's earlier life with Fletcher. These glimpses allow us an insight into the circumstances that have made her the way she is. The humor in the storytelling along with the twisty storylines will keep me reading this series for a long time.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
chris hartman
I received an advance copy of this from the publisher. I have not read the others in this series but I did enjoy this one. There was probably a lot I missed out on/didn't understand/etc because this is book 13 and I didn't read the others. So keep that in mind.
The lead character Gin Blanco/Genvieve Snow/The Spider was very enjoyable. She was easy to like and easy to want to root for. The supporting characters were also a great addition to this book. I found myself liking their parts and scenes just as much as Gin's stuff.
Jennifer's writing is very entertaining, great pace for the story, keeps you interested the whole way through the book. That last part is important and she has it.
I did find some of the story predictable but it was still entertaining to read. I don't know if that is because this is her first book I read or if that is just her in general. I don't think this has mass market appeal but I do think this is perfect for anyone who loves this genre and this kinda story line. If that is you then I think you do need to check out this series asap.
The lead character Gin Blanco/Genvieve Snow/The Spider was very enjoyable. She was easy to like and easy to want to root for. The supporting characters were also a great addition to this book. I found myself liking their parts and scenes just as much as Gin's stuff.
Jennifer's writing is very entertaining, great pace for the story, keeps you interested the whole way through the book. That last part is important and she has it.
I did find some of the story predictable but it was still entertaining to read. I don't know if that is because this is her first book I read or if that is just her in general. I don't think this has mass market appeal but I do think this is perfect for anyone who loves this genre and this kinda story line. If that is you then I think you do need to check out this series asap.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
michelle edwards
Another great book in the Elemental Assassin Series! Can't get enough of Gin and all her friends. Interesting information about Finn's mother at the end of this book. Definitely want to see how that will play out in the next book. Can't wait till the next book!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
jill myers
I love this series, an assassin with a conscience, go figure. This book did not disappoint, it was as good as the previous books. The only problem I have with the character, Gin, is that she is supposed to be super powerful. Yet, she is always getting her butt kicked. She survives in luck alone. The other elementals are able to make things with their powers, yet she can only make an ice dagger. It just does not make sense.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
terra
Spider’s Trap by Jennifer Estep is the 13th book in her fantastic Elemental Assassin series. Gin Blanco is our heroine in this series, and she is one of the best kick-ass heroines I have read. Gin is an assassin with the name Spider, but in recent books, her identity which was hidden is now known. Gin is tough as they come, and throughout this series, she has killed many in self defense, killing evil beings, or to save those of her friends/family, whom she is loyal to. Gin thinks nothing of putting herself in continual danger, and in each story that Jennifer Estep so wonderfully creates, Gin faces off against the ultimate powerful nemesis and they just keep getting stronger and more powerful.
With the demise of Mab and Madeline Monroe in the last few books, Gin has been elevated to Queen of the Underworld, something she really doesn’t want, but having eliminated those in power, she inherits this title. The story begins with Gin overseeing a meeting of the Ashland underworld, and since she is bored, she begins to watch her surroundings and becomes suspicious of a waiter. Gin realizes there is a bomb and jumps to save everyone, and the mystery begins who is trying to kill who.
Gin will find herself against a powerful villain, as well as remembering a case from the past that comes back to haunt her and her competitor Lorelei Parker. What follows is an amazing adventure that puts Gin in many dangerous and death defying situations. What I loved the most is the team Gin has built over the years, consisting of friends and family that surround her. These are a wonderful group of secondary characters…Owen, Finn, Sophia, Jo Jo, Bria, Xavier, Silvio, just to name a few. As the danger escalates into an impossible situation, it will take enemies to join hands to fight against this master villain.
Jennifer Estep simply amazes me how she keeps giving us such fabulous thrilling stories, with such a fantastic heroine who always has us on the edge of our seat praying for her survival. The romance between Gin and Owen keeps growing, as does her second family. Each book in this series just keeps getting better and better. Please Jennifer, do not ever end this series. If you have not read Elemental Assassin series, what are you waiting for?
With the demise of Mab and Madeline Monroe in the last few books, Gin has been elevated to Queen of the Underworld, something she really doesn’t want, but having eliminated those in power, she inherits this title. The story begins with Gin overseeing a meeting of the Ashland underworld, and since she is bored, she begins to watch her surroundings and becomes suspicious of a waiter. Gin realizes there is a bomb and jumps to save everyone, and the mystery begins who is trying to kill who.
Gin will find herself against a powerful villain, as well as remembering a case from the past that comes back to haunt her and her competitor Lorelei Parker. What follows is an amazing adventure that puts Gin in many dangerous and death defying situations. What I loved the most is the team Gin has built over the years, consisting of friends and family that surround her. These are a wonderful group of secondary characters…Owen, Finn, Sophia, Jo Jo, Bria, Xavier, Silvio, just to name a few. As the danger escalates into an impossible situation, it will take enemies to join hands to fight against this master villain.
Jennifer Estep simply amazes me how she keeps giving us such fabulous thrilling stories, with such a fantastic heroine who always has us on the edge of our seat praying for her survival. The romance between Gin and Owen keeps growing, as does her second family. Each book in this series just keeps getting better and better. Please Jennifer, do not ever end this series. If you have not read Elemental Assassin series, what are you waiting for?
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
lcthecow
Gin Blanco is the head of the underworld in Ashland. She has her group of friends that are also backup when she wants it or not. Being the head of the underworld isn't a job that Gin didn't expect. Gin is also known as the "Spider" an assassin. Gin is at a meeting with the underworld leaders when Gin discovers that there is a bomb present. She saves the day but wonders who is out to kill her or is it someone else they want to kill?
The novel is fantastic! I have yet to be disappointed by this author. There is mystery and suspense in this urban fantasy. The reader gets a mini story about Gin when she was young learning from her mentor how to be an assassin.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
The novel is fantastic! I have yet to be disappointed by this author. There is mystery and suspense in this urban fantasy. The reader gets a mini story about Gin when she was young learning from her mentor how to be an assassin.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
Please RateSpider's Trap (Elemental Assassin)
Book Info
Paperback, 384 pages
Expected publication: July 28th 2015 by Pocket Books
original title Spider's Trap
ISBN 1501105175 (ISBN13: 9781501105173)
edition language English
series Elemental Assassin #13
other editions (2)
Source:Netgalley EARC
Book Buy Links
the store
B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS
The next thrilling book in Jennifer Estep’s New York Times and USA Today bestselling Elemental Assassin series—“an extraordinary series… One of the most intriguing heroines in the genre” (Romantic Times Book Reviews).
Keep your friends close but your enemies within stabbing distance.
One important lesson I’ve learned in the assassination business is that to be the best you have to roll with the punches. Now that I’m queen of Ashland’s underworld—by default, not by choice—a lot more punches are being thrown my way. But I suppose that’s the price of victory for taking down some of the underworld’s top dogs. Good thing I have my Ice and Stone magic to help me survive my volatile new position. Just when I think things are finally settling down, someone tries to murder me during a hush-hush underworld meeting. But the real surprise is how strangely familiar my shadowy assailant seems to be.
My job is to maintain order among killers, crooks, and thieves, and soon I’m embroiled in a bloody game where the ability to keep secrets could be the greatest superpower of all. My enemies have all sharpened their knives and laid their traps, waiting for me to fall. But this Spider weaves her own webs of death…
My Thoughts
When Gin Blanco blasted onto the Urban Fantasy bookshelves in 2010 she was still learning her craft, now 5 years and 13 books later she is the best of the best as an Assassin. Having beaten the previous reigning Underworld Queen of Ashland and then having defeated the daughter as well she has been awarded the dubious honor of becoming the new Underworld Boss. A job she never aspired to, nor does she really want it as the title means more trouble will come her way from those who would like to take it from her.
In this book Gin again becomes the main focus, her family and friends are still part of the story but she is front and center where she belongs. The newest threat is one that is as sadistic as he is handsome and turns out to be her strongest adversary yet to date.
If you have read the previous books than you will know that food plays a huge role in a lot of the gatherings where Gin and her friends/family share mouth watering home cooked meals. Action is solid as usual, take it with an open mind as what she and others survive is pretty brutal but after all it is a supernatural fantasy tale. If you are looking to find another example of cutting wit and sarcasm than Gin delivers both per her usual dry delivery.
Picking up where Black Widow left off we find an even more exciting reading experience which brings us closer to what may be the last book in the series, which from the preview included in this one should be the most explosive yet!
5 years later, 13 books in and Gin Blanco is still going strong despite a few really close calls that will keep you on your toes rooting for her to once more triumph.
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]