Spider's Revenge (Elemental Assassin series Book 5)
ByJennifer Estep
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Readers` Reviews
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
taeli
The fifth installment of the Gin Blanco series finds Gin (AKA the notorious assassin , the Spider) going up directly against Mab Monroe, the woman who killed her mother and older sister, seventeen years ago.
And someone is going to "get dead" in Gin vernacular. Will it be Gin or Mab? Redemption, family, love, and magic are some of the themes seen as Gin battles Mab to the death.
In characteristic Estep fashion, there is humor mixed with touching moments.
And someone is going to "get dead" in Gin vernacular. Will it be Gin or Mab? Redemption, family, love, and magic are some of the themes seen as Gin battles Mab to the death.
In characteristic Estep fashion, there is humor mixed with touching moments.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
aria eleanor
The whole series is very repetitive. It's a series. You don't have to tell us everything about the other books. I hate to hear "and then we dance" or other silly words. As a assassin she really gets kicked up a lot. But I do like overall the book and I do like to cry a bit so it works for me.
Spider's Bite (Elemental Assassin, Book 1) :: Heart of Venom (Elemental Assassin) :: Black Widow (Elemental Assassin) :: Venom (Elemental Assassin, Book 3) :: Spider's Trap (Elemental Assassin)
★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆
rebecca jaramillo
This is a terrible book. For some reason, I liked the previous ones. The writing in this is poor, the editing even poorer, and the plot is terrible.
Many times the writing seems disjointed, as if the contents had been heavily edited and rearranged. For example, early in the book, the Jo Jo says:
=====
"It's going to be okay, Gin," the dwarf murmured. "You'll see."
...
I didn't say anything, but I squeezed the dwarf's fingers with my own, trying to reassure myself as much as her.
=====
The problem here is that the dwarf does not need reassuring. This type of thing should have been caught in editing, but wasn't. This type of error happens often.
Other reviewers have summed up the plot well, but I will recap: Gin tries to kill Mab. She fails. Repeat. Others try to kill Gin. They fail. Repeat. Gin walks around with a sign around her neck that says "I am the Spider." Bounty Hunters ignore it. Add some boring sex (I actually skipped those parts). It all ends happily ever after.
I am not going to read anymore of these books.
N.B. If you are in hiding, don't pick a name that is the same as your real name. If your name is Gen Snow, Gin Blanco is a really bad alias. If it weren't for the fact that everyone in these books is excruciatingly stupid, then Gin would have been killed with a car bomb long ago.
Many times the writing seems disjointed, as if the contents had been heavily edited and rearranged. For example, early in the book, the Jo Jo says:
=====
"It's going to be okay, Gin," the dwarf murmured. "You'll see."
...
I didn't say anything, but I squeezed the dwarf's fingers with my own, trying to reassure myself as much as her.
=====
The problem here is that the dwarf does not need reassuring. This type of thing should have been caught in editing, but wasn't. This type of error happens often.
Other reviewers have summed up the plot well, but I will recap: Gin tries to kill Mab. She fails. Repeat. Others try to kill Gin. They fail. Repeat. Gin walks around with a sign around her neck that says "I am the Spider." Bounty Hunters ignore it. Add some boring sex (I actually skipped those parts). It all ends happily ever after.
I am not going to read anymore of these books.
N.B. If you are in hiding, don't pick a name that is the same as your real name. If your name is Gen Snow, Gin Blanco is a really bad alias. If it weren't for the fact that everyone in these books is excruciatingly stupid, then Gin would have been killed with a car bomb long ago.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
morticiawbbs
Spider's Revenge by Jennifer Estep
Paranormal Romance -Sept. 27th, 2011
4 1/2 stars
Outrageously addictive and fun to read this urban fantasy series has a likable cast of characters that never make it feel grim or depressing. As the fifth in the series the author wraps up many looses ends but leaves us more to anticipate.
Gin is tired of Mob Boss, Mab Monroe's tight hold on her city. As the owner of the famous Pork Pit and a deadly assassin she decides to end Mab's life. But she misses! Gin's problems escalate when a rash of crimes in the city causes chaos. When her police officer, sister asks for help, Gin can't refuse. And when her sister is targeted, Gin knows that cleaning up the streets is all that more urgent. When Mab puts a bounty on Gin and her sister things get even more personal.
This is a very emotionally satisfying read. I liked that Gin finally has a chance to bond with her sister Bria. And for the first time, Gin really gets emotional as she relives the murder of her mother and sister. Gin also opens herself up to boyfriend, Owen. Her last boyfriend was a disappointment. So it was great to read a guy who accepts her for her lifestyle and understands her need for revenge even as he doesn't want her to get harmed. As things get personal, Gin becomes more rash and foolhardy in her attempts to kill Mab. The only pall on this story is that Gin keeps making mistakes/misses! I realize this adds tension but Gin is supposed to a totally famous assassin. So I felt her confrontations with Mab dragged a bit. I thought the climatic finale was a little over the top but still fun to read. As usual, I loved returning to the Pork Pit and reading the food Gin cooks up. I wish there really was such a place to visit near me. I also enjoyed reading about how the entire gang is there to support her and how they further bond, especially the devilish Finn....
I would be satisfied with Spider's Revenge as the last book in the series since the author gives readers a real resolution. However, Gin's actions also cause repercussions and this will the subject of the next book, By a Thread.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Paranormal Romance -Sept. 27th, 2011
4 1/2 stars
Outrageously addictive and fun to read this urban fantasy series has a likable cast of characters that never make it feel grim or depressing. As the fifth in the series the author wraps up many looses ends but leaves us more to anticipate.
Gin is tired of Mob Boss, Mab Monroe's tight hold on her city. As the owner of the famous Pork Pit and a deadly assassin she decides to end Mab's life. But she misses! Gin's problems escalate when a rash of crimes in the city causes chaos. When her police officer, sister asks for help, Gin can't refuse. And when her sister is targeted, Gin knows that cleaning up the streets is all that more urgent. When Mab puts a bounty on Gin and her sister things get even more personal.
This is a very emotionally satisfying read. I liked that Gin finally has a chance to bond with her sister Bria. And for the first time, Gin really gets emotional as she relives the murder of her mother and sister. Gin also opens herself up to boyfriend, Owen. Her last boyfriend was a disappointment. So it was great to read a guy who accepts her for her lifestyle and understands her need for revenge even as he doesn't want her to get harmed. As things get personal, Gin becomes more rash and foolhardy in her attempts to kill Mab. The only pall on this story is that Gin keeps making mistakes/misses! I realize this adds tension but Gin is supposed to a totally famous assassin. So I felt her confrontations with Mab dragged a bit. I thought the climatic finale was a little over the top but still fun to read. As usual, I loved returning to the Pork Pit and reading the food Gin cooks up. I wish there really was such a place to visit near me. I also enjoyed reading about how the entire gang is there to support her and how they further bond, especially the devilish Finn....
I would be satisfied with Spider's Revenge as the last book in the series since the author gives readers a real resolution. However, Gin's actions also cause repercussions and this will the subject of the next book, By a Thread.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
kim davison
Please note: SPIDER'S REVENGE is the fifth book in the series and contains the final confrontation with the series' Big Bad. As such, this review contains spoilers for the entire series up to this point. Proceed with caution.
Oh, Gin! I have a strange relationship with the Elemental Assassin series. On the one hand, the world building is great, the magic system is well thought out and unique, and the characters are intriguing and human. On the other, Jennifer Estep's writing can get very repetitive and bogged down in details that don't matter, pulling me out of the story. I continue to read for the story, for Gin and Finn, Jo-Jo and Sophia, Owen and Roslyn, but I know going in that I might have to work for my payoff. No other book in the series so epitomizes that feeling that SPIDER'S REVENGE.
Gin Blanco aka Genevieve Snow aka The Spider has been working toward this moment for seventeen years. She is finally going to kill the woman who murdered her mother and older sister, and caused her separation from her baby sister, Ashland cop Bria Coolidge. It's time for Mab Monroe, the top dog of Ashland's underworld, to go down.
The book opens with Gin watching through a window as Mab presides over a dinner party in her own home, a crossbow aimed at the Fire elemental's black eye. In an uncharacteristic move, Gin misses, and barely escapes the estate with her life. This was my first issue with this book: Ms. Estep has spent the last four books hammering it into the readers' heads that Gin is nothing if not patient--her spider rune is the symbol for patience, after all. For her to screw up the most important assassination of her life by being impatient threw me right out of the story. Her second attempt--yes, she fails again!--is foiled by something of an anti-deus ex machina as one of Mab's minions comes around the corner at just the right time to warn her that Gin is about to slit her throat. Ugh. I understand why this had to happen; if Gin killed Mab in the first ten pages, it wouldn't be much of a novel. However, I feel that this could have been handled in a different way, and the story would have been better for it.
**SPOILERS BELOW**
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As much as I disliked the first two-thirds of the book, the final confrontation with Mab was SO WORTH IT. Gin sees herself as a loner, and I loved that her friends refuse to let her sacrifice herself. I loved her interactions with Owen Grayson (Owen!!!), that he says "I love you" to her, and understand when she can't say them back. Gin's relationship with Donovon Caine in the first two books never rang true to me, but she and Owen are a perfect fit. I loved Bria and Finn, and we finally learn why Sophia's voice is so raspy--and it's heartbreaking.
Most of all, I enjoyed the actual fight with Mab. Over and over, Gin tells the reader that Elementals fight by throwing raw magic at one another until someone dies. That's the reason Mab's never lost: she's the most powerful Elemental born in the last 500 years. But Gin is The Spider, and she has more than magic, she has Flecher Lane's training, and in the end, that's what makes the difference.
*
*
*
*
**END SPOILERS**
The first two-thirds of the book on rates two stars in my book, but the climax was a solid four stars. I have quite enjoyed this series, even with its issues, and will continue to read each new chapter in Gin's life--even if Donovan Caine is going to be in BY A THREAD.
Oh, Gin! I have a strange relationship with the Elemental Assassin series. On the one hand, the world building is great, the magic system is well thought out and unique, and the characters are intriguing and human. On the other, Jennifer Estep's writing can get very repetitive and bogged down in details that don't matter, pulling me out of the story. I continue to read for the story, for Gin and Finn, Jo-Jo and Sophia, Owen and Roslyn, but I know going in that I might have to work for my payoff. No other book in the series so epitomizes that feeling that SPIDER'S REVENGE.
Gin Blanco aka Genevieve Snow aka The Spider has been working toward this moment for seventeen years. She is finally going to kill the woman who murdered her mother and older sister, and caused her separation from her baby sister, Ashland cop Bria Coolidge. It's time for Mab Monroe, the top dog of Ashland's underworld, to go down.
The book opens with Gin watching through a window as Mab presides over a dinner party in her own home, a crossbow aimed at the Fire elemental's black eye. In an uncharacteristic move, Gin misses, and barely escapes the estate with her life. This was my first issue with this book: Ms. Estep has spent the last four books hammering it into the readers' heads that Gin is nothing if not patient--her spider rune is the symbol for patience, after all. For her to screw up the most important assassination of her life by being impatient threw me right out of the story. Her second attempt--yes, she fails again!--is foiled by something of an anti-deus ex machina as one of Mab's minions comes around the corner at just the right time to warn her that Gin is about to slit her throat. Ugh. I understand why this had to happen; if Gin killed Mab in the first ten pages, it wouldn't be much of a novel. However, I feel that this could have been handled in a different way, and the story would have been better for it.
**SPOILERS BELOW**
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
As much as I disliked the first two-thirds of the book, the final confrontation with Mab was SO WORTH IT. Gin sees herself as a loner, and I loved that her friends refuse to let her sacrifice herself. I loved her interactions with Owen Grayson (Owen!!!), that he says "I love you" to her, and understand when she can't say them back. Gin's relationship with Donovon Caine in the first two books never rang true to me, but she and Owen are a perfect fit. I loved Bria and Finn, and we finally learn why Sophia's voice is so raspy--and it's heartbreaking.
Most of all, I enjoyed the actual fight with Mab. Over and over, Gin tells the reader that Elementals fight by throwing raw magic at one another until someone dies. That's the reason Mab's never lost: she's the most powerful Elemental born in the last 500 years. But Gin is The Spider, and she has more than magic, she has Flecher Lane's training, and in the end, that's what makes the difference.
*
*
*
*
**END SPOILERS**
The first two-thirds of the book on rates two stars in my book, but the climax was a solid four stars. I have quite enjoyed this series, even with its issues, and will continue to read each new chapter in Gin's life--even if Donovan Caine is going to be in BY A THREAD.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
smoothw
Ok to get started you should all know that Jennifer Estep is one of my Favorite authors.
Everything I have read by her has been so darn good.
Now on to Spider's Revenge!
Gin, I just love her. You just never know what she is going to do next. Even if you do, it is not going to be just what you think. She really does not act like a retired assassin. I do not think she known's the meaning of the word retired.
Some times, it is hard for me to tell you what I think about a book, I do not want to give anything away.
The charters like always are great, they pull the story together and make it a whole. Gin is great by any means, but with out Finn, Jo Jo, Sophia and Owen she just would not be the same. There are a lot more charters that make the story whole, but if I get into them this would be a very long review. Gin tho is the main one in all the books; she is a strong and stubborn woman.
Now in all the Elemental Assassin Books, Gin is at war with Mab. Always they are fighting and in this story, will the war keep going or will it end? Now am not going to tell you. So if you want to know. Go and pick up Spider's Revenge and find out for your self.
If you have not read any of the Elemental Assassin Books, I say go for it!
There great and will keep you reading and for me to hard to put down!!
Everything I have read by her has been so darn good.
Now on to Spider's Revenge!
Gin, I just love her. You just never know what she is going to do next. Even if you do, it is not going to be just what you think. She really does not act like a retired assassin. I do not think she known's the meaning of the word retired.
Some times, it is hard for me to tell you what I think about a book, I do not want to give anything away.
The charters like always are great, they pull the story together and make it a whole. Gin is great by any means, but with out Finn, Jo Jo, Sophia and Owen she just would not be the same. There are a lot more charters that make the story whole, but if I get into them this would be a very long review. Gin tho is the main one in all the books; she is a strong and stubborn woman.
Now in all the Elemental Assassin Books, Gin is at war with Mab. Always they are fighting and in this story, will the war keep going or will it end? Now am not going to tell you. So if you want to know. Go and pick up Spider's Revenge and find out for your self.
If you have not read any of the Elemental Assassin Books, I say go for it!
There great and will keep you reading and for me to hard to put down!!
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
nightfalltwen
Spider's Revenge is the fifth installment in the Elemental Assassin series by Jennifer Estep.
The blurb of the book is very explicit and summarizes pretty well what Spider's Revenge is about, adding more to it will be spoilerish and I don't want that.
Let's start by saying this book is not a stand-alone book and this series should be read in order.
Gin is ready to her final showdown with Mab Monroe, the woman who killed her family and tortured her many years ago. She has come a long way to be ready for this moment but Gin rushes things and misses a big opportunity to get rid of Mab, now she is having second thoughts and she's not sure she's "good enough" to kill Mab. The problem Gin has is that she is used to do everything alone and in this case if she wants to succeed she will have to trust and accept the help of her friends.
I fell in love with Gin since the moment I met her in Spider's Bite (first book). Yes, she is an assassin but she has a heart and in Spider's Revenge we see it more clearly than ever. Gin has grown through the pages and everyday she is becoming a better person, her love for her friends and family doesn't have limits and she is willing to do anything to protect them. And she proves us that and more in this book.
The characters are what made of Elemental Assassin series one of my favorite Urban Fantasy series. All of them from the good guys to the villains have become a favorite of mine.
In this installment we see all our favorite characters from previous books, some have bigger parts than others but at the end it doesn't matter if they have hundred pages or two lines, they all have a very important part in the story.
As always Finn has a big part, not just as a support for Gin and her endeavors but also as a love interest for Gin's sister Bria. Finn is the same women-lover but tamed thanks to his attraction to Bria. Finn also brings the humor to the story even though he did something in this book I wanted to kill him for, something that fell completely out of character for him and something I'm still trying to grasp my mind around. Still I love him and I'm trying to forgive him for what he did.
Quote:
Once I pulled the mask down over my face, I turned to stare at Finn.
"You ready to do this?"
"Just like Bonnie and Clyde." He grinned, his teeth a gleaming white against the black fabric. "Although let's try not to get shot to pieces tonight, okay? This coat is imported leather."
Bria is also a big part in the story, she has been trying to accept that Gin, her only sister is an assassin, it haven't been easy but in Spider's Revenge circumstances have got them closer to each other. There was a very emotional scene between them, I won't give it away but you'll know what I'm talking about when you read it.
I have always loved Owen but after Spider's Revenge I adore him. Mrs. Estep couldn't have written a better man than him for Gin. He is caring, loving and the best part he accepts Gin without reservations. He knows what and who she is and he doesn't care, he loves her and understands her no matter what. Their relationship is also evolving, becoming more, and that made me very happy. They are just perfect for each other. *swoon*
Jo-jo and Sophia as always are a big part of the story. In this book we learned about how and when they met Fletcher and the story about Sophia's past. And let me tell you is a gut-wrenching story. *cries*
I loved to see that Roslyn and Xavier are still together and stronger than ever, and also loved the devotion they have for each other.
I cannot leave behind the evil bitch Mab Monroe. She is a really great villain, she is powerful, bad, dangerous and unscrupulous. Mab is one of those characters that you would like to kill her yourself or at least you would have loved to help Gin.
Spider's Revenge was a roller coaster of adventures, it started at a very high point but one third into the book went down and stalled for a while, after that it got momentum again and from then on it was an non-stop action-filled-page-turner.
Overall Spider's Revenge is a great addition to a great series and a really fantastic conclusion to a story arc. As always Mrs. Estep does a great job in this installment with its action and tension packed pages and the perfect sequenced fighting scenes that will have you on the edge of your seat. But the best part is the importance of love and the acceptance real love brings; not just the love between a couple but the love of a family, it doesn't have to be blood related family but the family that circumstances in life has chosen for you.
The next installment in this series By A Thread will be release on February 2012. I can't wait to see what Mrs. Estep has in store for us with this new story.
The blurb of the book is very explicit and summarizes pretty well what Spider's Revenge is about, adding more to it will be spoilerish and I don't want that.
Let's start by saying this book is not a stand-alone book and this series should be read in order.
Gin is ready to her final showdown with Mab Monroe, the woman who killed her family and tortured her many years ago. She has come a long way to be ready for this moment but Gin rushes things and misses a big opportunity to get rid of Mab, now she is having second thoughts and she's not sure she's "good enough" to kill Mab. The problem Gin has is that she is used to do everything alone and in this case if she wants to succeed she will have to trust and accept the help of her friends.
I fell in love with Gin since the moment I met her in Spider's Bite (first book). Yes, she is an assassin but she has a heart and in Spider's Revenge we see it more clearly than ever. Gin has grown through the pages and everyday she is becoming a better person, her love for her friends and family doesn't have limits and she is willing to do anything to protect them. And she proves us that and more in this book.
The characters are what made of Elemental Assassin series one of my favorite Urban Fantasy series. All of them from the good guys to the villains have become a favorite of mine.
In this installment we see all our favorite characters from previous books, some have bigger parts than others but at the end it doesn't matter if they have hundred pages or two lines, they all have a very important part in the story.
As always Finn has a big part, not just as a support for Gin and her endeavors but also as a love interest for Gin's sister Bria. Finn is the same women-lover but tamed thanks to his attraction to Bria. Finn also brings the humor to the story even though he did something in this book I wanted to kill him for, something that fell completely out of character for him and something I'm still trying to grasp my mind around. Still I love him and I'm trying to forgive him for what he did.
Quote:
Once I pulled the mask down over my face, I turned to stare at Finn.
"You ready to do this?"
"Just like Bonnie and Clyde." He grinned, his teeth a gleaming white against the black fabric. "Although let's try not to get shot to pieces tonight, okay? This coat is imported leather."
Bria is also a big part in the story, she has been trying to accept that Gin, her only sister is an assassin, it haven't been easy but in Spider's Revenge circumstances have got them closer to each other. There was a very emotional scene between them, I won't give it away but you'll know what I'm talking about when you read it.
I have always loved Owen but after Spider's Revenge I adore him. Mrs. Estep couldn't have written a better man than him for Gin. He is caring, loving and the best part he accepts Gin without reservations. He knows what and who she is and he doesn't care, he loves her and understands her no matter what. Their relationship is also evolving, becoming more, and that made me very happy. They are just perfect for each other. *swoon*
Jo-jo and Sophia as always are a big part of the story. In this book we learned about how and when they met Fletcher and the story about Sophia's past. And let me tell you is a gut-wrenching story. *cries*
I loved to see that Roslyn and Xavier are still together and stronger than ever, and also loved the devotion they have for each other.
I cannot leave behind the evil bitch Mab Monroe. She is a really great villain, she is powerful, bad, dangerous and unscrupulous. Mab is one of those characters that you would like to kill her yourself or at least you would have loved to help Gin.
Spider's Revenge was a roller coaster of adventures, it started at a very high point but one third into the book went down and stalled for a while, after that it got momentum again and from then on it was an non-stop action-filled-page-turner.
Overall Spider's Revenge is a great addition to a great series and a really fantastic conclusion to a story arc. As always Mrs. Estep does a great job in this installment with its action and tension packed pages and the perfect sequenced fighting scenes that will have you on the edge of your seat. But the best part is the importance of love and the acceptance real love brings; not just the love between a couple but the love of a family, it doesn't have to be blood related family but the family that circumstances in life has chosen for you.
The next installment in this series By A Thread will be release on February 2012. I can't wait to see what Mrs. Estep has in store for us with this new story.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
alinutza
Spider's Revenge is simply outstanding and exactly what I want- full of action, action, action. Jennifer Estep writes the most entertaining Urban Fantasy novels and her characters are fascinating. Spider's Revenge is the fifth installment in the Elemental Assassin series, and I highly recommend the entire series. It can be read as a standalone. Jennifer backs up her characters and plot so that newbies to the series won't get lost. It did seem a bit tedious at times, but I love her writing style so much I flew right through. Gin finally sets out to get her inevitable revenge and I love every minute of Mab's frustration.
First of all, the world that Jennifer Estep created has me completely enthralled. Gin is witty, kick ass and even knows how to take a beating. I love that. She always bounces back, but it is nice to see she isn't invincible. I haven't enjoyed watching a character evolve over a series as much as I've enjoyed Gin. She was ice cold in book one and now she's opened up to new possibilities. My favorite possibility? OWEN. Owen is Gin's lover boy. He is a mysterious bad ass and not overtly cheesy. He has a special link to Gin's past. It just makes their relationship sweeter.
The showdown between Mab and Gin has been a long time coming- the build up is just as amazing as the fight itself. The whole book had me on pins and needles waiting for them to start throwing power punches. I was a little worried that the showdown would be anticlimactic, but it wasn't. Gin's snark is never ending and it helped to lighten the intensity of the action. I had to hold my breath a few times, wondering how she would get out of yet another tight bind. She does though, always by the skin of her teeth, which is absolutely thrilling. There are other subplots interlaced throughout- and they're all fast paced and fun to follow. Quick read. Not to mention all of our favorites are back... Finn especially. ;)
Jennifer Estep's Elemental Assassin series is dark, satisfying and perfectly compelling- can't wait to read By a Thread. Anyone into the Urban Fantasy genre MUST go get this series. You won't regret it. Also, if you love Young Adult Urban Fantasy, check out Jennifer's Mythos Academy series!
First of all, the world that Jennifer Estep created has me completely enthralled. Gin is witty, kick ass and even knows how to take a beating. I love that. She always bounces back, but it is nice to see she isn't invincible. I haven't enjoyed watching a character evolve over a series as much as I've enjoyed Gin. She was ice cold in book one and now she's opened up to new possibilities. My favorite possibility? OWEN. Owen is Gin's lover boy. He is a mysterious bad ass and not overtly cheesy. He has a special link to Gin's past. It just makes their relationship sweeter.
The showdown between Mab and Gin has been a long time coming- the build up is just as amazing as the fight itself. The whole book had me on pins and needles waiting for them to start throwing power punches. I was a little worried that the showdown would be anticlimactic, but it wasn't. Gin's snark is never ending and it helped to lighten the intensity of the action. I had to hold my breath a few times, wondering how she would get out of yet another tight bind. She does though, always by the skin of her teeth, which is absolutely thrilling. There are other subplots interlaced throughout- and they're all fast paced and fun to follow. Quick read. Not to mention all of our favorites are back... Finn especially. ;)
Jennifer Estep's Elemental Assassin series is dark, satisfying and perfectly compelling- can't wait to read By a Thread. Anyone into the Urban Fantasy genre MUST go get this series. You won't regret it. Also, if you love Young Adult Urban Fantasy, check out Jennifer's Mythos Academy series!
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
kimmie white
The fifth Elemental Assassin entry aims to wrap up the long standing arc since Book 1. It's Mab Monroe vs. Gin Blanco aka The Spider aka Genevieve Snow. It's the final show down to prove once and for all who is the strongest. Mab is pulling out all stops to finish what she started 17 years ago while Gin's not backing down to exact revenge that she's been working towards since then herself. Who will win?
This series has so much potential, but I'm disappointed that things really didn't get going until the half way point. Estep spends the first third of the book practically summarizing what's happened in the previous books which annoys me to no end. It drastically affects my enjoyment of the book; this was the same pitfall for the previous installment. A pattern is now obvious.
Once you get over that, there are some moments and parallels that I saw coming from a mile away, but I still enjoyed them regardless. We learn back story about a couple of supporting characters and we get to see others characters finally in action and kicking some ass, which I liked as well.
I'm typically drawn to series that are primarily character-driven, so a lot of the time I will gloss over the action, but Elemental Assassin is one of the few where I really get into it. I read this series for the action moreso than the characters if I really think about it. The pace is just right, the intensity is there, and it's not very confusing. I think it really helps that we're in the mind of a stone cold killer. She's not some innocent girl still finding herself and trying to react to the bad guy. Gin is genuinely a badass, so I do give the series props for that.
While the action is at an all time high, due to the continuous repitition, the predicability, and the over-explaining (Estep literally makes a page out of something that could be one sentence), I can't ever give this series more than 3 stars until the author gets over those glaringly lazy attempts to fill pages. It needs more substance. Period. The first couple of books are exceptions for obvious reasons. But at this point, each new installment is essentially a novella of a story at the price of a novel.
This series has so much potential, but I'm disappointed that things really didn't get going until the half way point. Estep spends the first third of the book practically summarizing what's happened in the previous books which annoys me to no end. It drastically affects my enjoyment of the book; this was the same pitfall for the previous installment. A pattern is now obvious.
Once you get over that, there are some moments and parallels that I saw coming from a mile away, but I still enjoyed them regardless. We learn back story about a couple of supporting characters and we get to see others characters finally in action and kicking some ass, which I liked as well.
I'm typically drawn to series that are primarily character-driven, so a lot of the time I will gloss over the action, but Elemental Assassin is one of the few where I really get into it. I read this series for the action moreso than the characters if I really think about it. The pace is just right, the intensity is there, and it's not very confusing. I think it really helps that we're in the mind of a stone cold killer. She's not some innocent girl still finding herself and trying to react to the bad guy. Gin is genuinely a badass, so I do give the series props for that.
While the action is at an all time high, due to the continuous repitition, the predicability, and the over-explaining (Estep literally makes a page out of something that could be one sentence), I can't ever give this series more than 3 stars until the author gets over those glaringly lazy attempts to fill pages. It needs more substance. Period. The first couple of books are exceptions for obvious reasons. But at this point, each new installment is essentially a novella of a story at the price of a novel.
★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
james vernon
I really was looking forward to this book and after reading it I am at a loss for words. Don't read on if you have not wasted your time reading this latest installment - as there a few spoilers.
I mean come on - no one can figure out that Gin is the Spider except for a young girl (12 or maybe 13) who walks into the Pork Pit at the end... Is Jennifer Estep serious? I dont know what was worse the re-introduction / re-hash of every character and Gin's past or the crappy dialogue over and over again. Consider for example on page 256 "I'm the Spider b#$ch and I'm the best there is..." but I've tried to kill you twice in the past 100 pages and failed both times... oh woe and heartbreak. Maybe the Spider is getting soft, maybe all the inner reflection is getting old and just maybe the author was pressured to finish this book without a re-write pass. Ugh.
I'm done with this series as it's now become trite, regressive and repetitive in plot, characters, language and time. Bummer.
I mean come on - no one can figure out that Gin is the Spider except for a young girl (12 or maybe 13) who walks into the Pork Pit at the end... Is Jennifer Estep serious? I dont know what was worse the re-introduction / re-hash of every character and Gin's past or the crappy dialogue over and over again. Consider for example on page 256 "I'm the Spider b#$ch and I'm the best there is..." but I've tried to kill you twice in the past 100 pages and failed both times... oh woe and heartbreak. Maybe the Spider is getting soft, maybe all the inner reflection is getting old and just maybe the author was pressured to finish this book without a re-write pass. Ugh.
I'm done with this series as it's now become trite, regressive and repetitive in plot, characters, language and time. Bummer.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
kenyon vrooman
Retired from the assassin business, Gin's life should have been calmer. Yet she's preparing for the fight of her life against her nemesis, Mab Monroe, the woman responsible for her family's deaths, along with countless other innocents. Things are getting harder than ever to keep her identity as the Spider apart from her real one, as there is a huge bounty on both her and Bria's head. Bounty Hunters are crawling out from the woodworks to get a chance at that hefty prize. Making an already impossible job incredibly worse. Gin knows this will probably be the fight that finally takes her down, but she won't go out quietly. Mab must be stopped at all costs.
Since the outcome of this book was quite predictable, I had thought it wouldn't have been as enjoyable as the previous installments. Just the fact that everything had been building to this point, I didn't think there would have been enough of a sense of risk and danger. Boy, was I wrong. There was plenty of build-up and missed opportunities, with some botched chances that really upped the stakes each time. I was on the edge off my seat guessing (and hoping) whether or not each part would mean the end of Mab's evil reign. To be honest, the "trial runs" if you want to call them that, only added to the impact of when things finally came to a head. I felt Jennifer Estep handled the immediate aftermath extremely well, especially a certain conversation, as I think Gin really needed that closure. When you get to that point, you'll know what I mean, as I cannot say more without spoiling the surprise.
While much of Spider's Revenge was focused on exactly what the title says, it was even more about emotional development and relationships. Gin's walls finally crumble in this book as she accepts real help for the first time. Always before it has been her against the world, and the rest of her loved ones left on the sidelines only able to offer small amounts of help after the fact. However, in Spider's Revenge, she finally realizes that she doesn't need to be alone, and just how much she means to all of them. While the lone-ranger method may have worked in the past, it just won't cut it anymore, and I'm glad she was wise enough, and emotionally ready to accept that. Many would consider an assassin having emotion to be a weakness, but in Gin's case, it's only made her stronger.
Once again Gin proves just how very good she is, and that you just don't want to mess with anyone she calls family. You just won't live to regret it, as her enemies have learned countless times. I had wondered how things would be set up to continue after Gin's final showdown, as by all rights things could have been easily wrapped up there (Of course I'm so glad it wasn't). While there definitely is a healthy does of satisfaction and completion, there also was the sense that things aren't over yet. There will be plenty of danger and action to come in the future, and I cannot wait to see more from Gin! Looks like the Spider can't hang her hat just yet, as Spider's Revenge ends with my favorite quote, "My name is Gin, and I kill people."
Since the outcome of this book was quite predictable, I had thought it wouldn't have been as enjoyable as the previous installments. Just the fact that everything had been building to this point, I didn't think there would have been enough of a sense of risk and danger. Boy, was I wrong. There was plenty of build-up and missed opportunities, with some botched chances that really upped the stakes each time. I was on the edge off my seat guessing (and hoping) whether or not each part would mean the end of Mab's evil reign. To be honest, the "trial runs" if you want to call them that, only added to the impact of when things finally came to a head. I felt Jennifer Estep handled the immediate aftermath extremely well, especially a certain conversation, as I think Gin really needed that closure. When you get to that point, you'll know what I mean, as I cannot say more without spoiling the surprise.
While much of Spider's Revenge was focused on exactly what the title says, it was even more about emotional development and relationships. Gin's walls finally crumble in this book as she accepts real help for the first time. Always before it has been her against the world, and the rest of her loved ones left on the sidelines only able to offer small amounts of help after the fact. However, in Spider's Revenge, she finally realizes that she doesn't need to be alone, and just how much she means to all of them. While the lone-ranger method may have worked in the past, it just won't cut it anymore, and I'm glad she was wise enough, and emotionally ready to accept that. Many would consider an assassin having emotion to be a weakness, but in Gin's case, it's only made her stronger.
Once again Gin proves just how very good she is, and that you just don't want to mess with anyone she calls family. You just won't live to regret it, as her enemies have learned countless times. I had wondered how things would be set up to continue after Gin's final showdown, as by all rights things could have been easily wrapped up there (Of course I'm so glad it wasn't). While there definitely is a healthy does of satisfaction and completion, there also was the sense that things aren't over yet. There will be plenty of danger and action to come in the future, and I cannot wait to see more from Gin! Looks like the Spider can't hang her hat just yet, as Spider's Revenge ends with my favorite quote, "My name is Gin, and I kill people."
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
dicksy presley
I gritted my teeth the first few chapters and wondered what kept bringing me back to this series. I can't say I hate it.. I don't but I found out when I tried to re-read the series before this book came out that I could not get though books on a second time around. So skimming through the first few bit's and constant revisiting the previous highlights that make me grind my teeth. I really did enjoy the rest of the book. I can't say that's a good sign for a series, that you have to grin and bare the annoying parts to get to the good action and story. Each book is the same that way for me though. Interesting characters and story but each book in the series has not made it to my keeper shelf. Spider's Revenge gave me everything I wanted for the series and I truly enjoyed but I can't honestly say it's worth the dollar's. This is one series I recommend to my friends to pick up at the library
★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆
afsane rezaei
I prefer reading urban fantasy series and was pleased with the earlier works of the "Elemental Assassin" series although I found myself skipping through most of this book in order to complete it. As noted in other reviews, the story becomes becomes repetitive and redundant through the narrative. Hey, Authors! Most of your readers are savvy enough to start with Book #1! Despite reviews for the next book, I will proceed because I'm an optimist, but because I'm a realist, I'm requesting it from the library.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
tiffanie
Although I like the premise of the storyline, it's hard to think of Gin as a competent assasin. How she got a rep as the best assasin, I'll never know. Amazing how many times she messes up, and still lives to tell about it! A lot of action, but it's frustrating how she has the perfect setup, and then somehing silly is written in to mess it up. That would happen occasionally, but certainly not as often as in the spider series.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
sharan
Spider's Revenge is the fifth book in Jennifer Estep's Elemental Assassin series. The main protagonist is Gin Blanco, a semi-retired assassin with the ability to use the elements as weapons, known as the elusive Spider. Gin owns a BBQ joint and moonlights as an assassin whose objective is to take down the nasty Mab Monroe, the mob boss of the Ashland underworld and the one who made Gin an orphan at thirteen by killing her parents and youngest sister. The fifth book is what I call the Return of the Jedi book. It brings everything to an explosive conclusion because this is where Gin and Mab finally come face to face with one another.
Gin comes across as a solitary character, but through the course of the past four books, that has changed. Gin has an extended family and friends. Gin is now in a relationship with Owen, a rich business man with a shady past who understand her and accepts her for all that she is. Gin has come to the conclusion how important Owen is to her. Finn, who's Gin's brother in her heart but not of her blood, is her ultimate backup and has a James Bond type of appeal to him (Plus an addiction to hickory coffee). Flynn is a character full of possibilities, especially when he sets his sights on Bria Snow, a detective and Gin's missing sister. There's just enough sparks between these two and a nice conclusion to their attraction, where you can't help but want to see more of. I'm hoping Bria and Finn will have their own book, or at least a short story.
The title says it all with this latest by Jennifer Estep. A major story arc has finished here but some things remain open. The fighting scenes are some of the best Jennifer has written and there are a few surprises ad twists. I feel this is the best book in this series and I can't wait to see what's left for Gin and her crew, especially in regards to Gin's unfinished business with her former lover, Donovan Caine, who may or may not appear in the next book.
If you haven't read Jennifer Estep's Elemental Assassin series, what are you waiting for? Spider's Revenge has the best of everything from a heroine with major balls and a romance I've become addicted to. Team Owen and Gin for the win!
Katiebabs
Gin comes across as a solitary character, but through the course of the past four books, that has changed. Gin has an extended family and friends. Gin is now in a relationship with Owen, a rich business man with a shady past who understand her and accepts her for all that she is. Gin has come to the conclusion how important Owen is to her. Finn, who's Gin's brother in her heart but not of her blood, is her ultimate backup and has a James Bond type of appeal to him (Plus an addiction to hickory coffee). Flynn is a character full of possibilities, especially when he sets his sights on Bria Snow, a detective and Gin's missing sister. There's just enough sparks between these two and a nice conclusion to their attraction, where you can't help but want to see more of. I'm hoping Bria and Finn will have their own book, or at least a short story.
The title says it all with this latest by Jennifer Estep. A major story arc has finished here but some things remain open. The fighting scenes are some of the best Jennifer has written and there are a few surprises ad twists. I feel this is the best book in this series and I can't wait to see what's left for Gin and her crew, especially in regards to Gin's unfinished business with her former lover, Donovan Caine, who may or may not appear in the next book.
If you haven't read Jennifer Estep's Elemental Assassin series, what are you waiting for? Spider's Revenge has the best of everything from a heroine with major balls and a romance I've become addicted to. Team Owen and Gin for the win!
Katiebabs
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
kristi swadley
Through four books we've slowly watched as the tension between Gin and nemesis Mab Monroe has escalated slowly but inexorably, a bloody and painful journey that could only ever have a bloody and painful end. Finally we are given the book where the entirety of Gin's focus is on Mab herself and not a minion or hired villain, and we find ourselves darkly entranced as all of Gin's grief and anger find and target their source, honing in with fine precision and denying us the possibility of reading only a few chapters before returning to the realities of our world. Instead, time has no meaning to us as we read, any plans we might have had for our day or evening abandoned as the glorious fury of Gin's wrath is unleashed on the monster who murders and maims any who oppose her.
Gin is a remarkably constructed character, her skill at dealing death and the ease with which she rends flesh with a unwavering swipe of her silverstone knives things that should make us instinctively uneasy, but Ms. Estep masterfully manages to write inherently human weaknesses and vulnerabilities into the body of the assassin so that connecting with her is ultimately a non-issue. We've read as she's been emotionally eviscerated by a man whose eyes saw only what the word "assassin" made his mind see as opposed to what was actually there, and finally in this story those wounds have almost been entirely healed by the love of a man who sees all the pieces of her-the innocence of Genevieve Snow, the stalwart survivor that is Gin Blanco, and the deadliness of a trained killer known as The Spider-and accepts each of them as necessary to making her who she is. She's been teetering on the edge of taking a leap of faith in her relationship with Owen, and it's incredibly satisfying to see her jump in this story and witness those who have been patiently waiting to catch her get their chance.
The build up and final battle with Mab is spectacularly executed, things for Gin going wrong more often than they go right, ensuring we are beside ourselves with worry and stress the entire time we're reading. Though Gin is a professional killer with undeniable skill, she doesn't simply waltz in and take Mab down in twenty short pages after hundreds of pages of planning, instead she engages Mab in a deadly dance, forced to retreat as often as she advances while making mistakes that just have us rooting for her all the more. Gin's elemental powers have been steadily growing with each book, but Ms. Estep maintains Gin's authenticity in this showdown beautifully, staying true to her and her mental and physical strengths without altering her so that she suddenly knows how to wield her ice and stone magic with the utmost competence. She's the Gin we've grown to love, as much a fighter with fists and smarts as she is with her elements, and we fight beside her every minute of this tale.
Though Spider's Revenge sees the epic conclusion of the Mab Monroe story arc, Ms. Estep leaves plenty of possibilities open for the next two installments (and hopefully beyond) so that there's no shortage trouble for Gin to find moving forward. Gin is one character whom it's a pleasure to watch grow and change, and her band of ridiculously lovable misfits keep some of the darkness at bay with their humor and loyal support of a woman who would sacrifice everything she has and everything she is to spare them the slightest pain. Gritty and violent but also poignant and powerful, Spider's Revenge is one that will not soon be forgotten.
Rating: 5/5
Gin is a remarkably constructed character, her skill at dealing death and the ease with which she rends flesh with a unwavering swipe of her silverstone knives things that should make us instinctively uneasy, but Ms. Estep masterfully manages to write inherently human weaknesses and vulnerabilities into the body of the assassin so that connecting with her is ultimately a non-issue. We've read as she's been emotionally eviscerated by a man whose eyes saw only what the word "assassin" made his mind see as opposed to what was actually there, and finally in this story those wounds have almost been entirely healed by the love of a man who sees all the pieces of her-the innocence of Genevieve Snow, the stalwart survivor that is Gin Blanco, and the deadliness of a trained killer known as The Spider-and accepts each of them as necessary to making her who she is. She's been teetering on the edge of taking a leap of faith in her relationship with Owen, and it's incredibly satisfying to see her jump in this story and witness those who have been patiently waiting to catch her get their chance.
The build up and final battle with Mab is spectacularly executed, things for Gin going wrong more often than they go right, ensuring we are beside ourselves with worry and stress the entire time we're reading. Though Gin is a professional killer with undeniable skill, she doesn't simply waltz in and take Mab down in twenty short pages after hundreds of pages of planning, instead she engages Mab in a deadly dance, forced to retreat as often as she advances while making mistakes that just have us rooting for her all the more. Gin's elemental powers have been steadily growing with each book, but Ms. Estep maintains Gin's authenticity in this showdown beautifully, staying true to her and her mental and physical strengths without altering her so that she suddenly knows how to wield her ice and stone magic with the utmost competence. She's the Gin we've grown to love, as much a fighter with fists and smarts as she is with her elements, and we fight beside her every minute of this tale.
Though Spider's Revenge sees the epic conclusion of the Mab Monroe story arc, Ms. Estep leaves plenty of possibilities open for the next two installments (and hopefully beyond) so that there's no shortage trouble for Gin to find moving forward. Gin is one character whom it's a pleasure to watch grow and change, and her band of ridiculously lovable misfits keep some of the darkness at bay with their humor and loyal support of a woman who would sacrifice everything she has and everything she is to spare them the slightest pain. Gritty and violent but also poignant and powerful, Spider's Revenge is one that will not soon be forgotten.
Rating: 5/5
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
bertha dur
This series just keeps getting better and better. Gin is one kick ass heroine! Spiders Revenge is everything you want an Urban Fantasy to be. It has action, great characters, evil villains whose eyes you just want to punch out, and a heroine you want to see have justice done to. Spiders Revenge is Book 5 in the Elemental Assassin series, and does not work as a stand alone. I highly recommend reading the first four before diving into this one. With any series, it's hard to review this without giving any spoilers away, so I'll do my best not to do it.
Gin is at her best in this book. She's tough, but has finally realized that there are those who care about her and has to put them first-something she hasn't had to do before. All of the secondary characters from past books make an appearance in this one, and I loved that! There's nothing better then when you are reading along and a familiar face comes along out of the blue, but working right into the story line. My favorites returned-Finn, Roslynn, Xavier, Bria, Jo Jo, Sophia & Owen.
Finn is as adorable as ever, and I love that he has a love interest. I'd make chickory coffee for my favorite sidekick any day of the week. My only problem was that I wanted more of him! I'd be happy with a whole book of just him. Owen is just well, perfect. He gives Gin the space she needs but there when she needs him to be. I can't wait to learn more about him and his sister, Eva. Team Owen forever! We learn a lot more about the past of Sophia and Jo Jo-which choked me up a bit. Roslynn & Xavier didn't make a lot of appearances, but I loved that they did show up when Gin needed them. There were also a few other characters that showed up as well for a bit, and it just made me sigh because as I said before, I love it when past minor characters aren't forgotten. There are also a few new secondary characters as well that make the story that much better.
One of the best villains ever in an Urban Fantasy series-Mab Monroe makes a really big appearance in this book. I just cringed every time she worked her evil ways in her book. Her actions were unpredictable, and I loved that. The battle between Mab and Gin surprised me, and I was a hot mess of every emotion you could name at the end of this book. Spiders Revenge has one of the best last lines ever. I won't tell you what is, because I was surprised by it, and don't want to ruin it! This series is a must read and Jennifer Estep is now an auto buy author for me.
Gin is at her best in this book. She's tough, but has finally realized that there are those who care about her and has to put them first-something she hasn't had to do before. All of the secondary characters from past books make an appearance in this one, and I loved that! There's nothing better then when you are reading along and a familiar face comes along out of the blue, but working right into the story line. My favorites returned-Finn, Roslynn, Xavier, Bria, Jo Jo, Sophia & Owen.
Finn is as adorable as ever, and I love that he has a love interest. I'd make chickory coffee for my favorite sidekick any day of the week. My only problem was that I wanted more of him! I'd be happy with a whole book of just him. Owen is just well, perfect. He gives Gin the space she needs but there when she needs him to be. I can't wait to learn more about him and his sister, Eva. Team Owen forever! We learn a lot more about the past of Sophia and Jo Jo-which choked me up a bit. Roslynn & Xavier didn't make a lot of appearances, but I loved that they did show up when Gin needed them. There were also a few other characters that showed up as well for a bit, and it just made me sigh because as I said before, I love it when past minor characters aren't forgotten. There are also a few new secondary characters as well that make the story that much better.
One of the best villains ever in an Urban Fantasy series-Mab Monroe makes a really big appearance in this book. I just cringed every time she worked her evil ways in her book. Her actions were unpredictable, and I loved that. The battle between Mab and Gin surprised me, and I was a hot mess of every emotion you could name at the end of this book. Spiders Revenge has one of the best last lines ever. I won't tell you what is, because I was surprised by it, and don't want to ruin it! This series is a must read and Jennifer Estep is now an auto buy author for me.
★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆
charlotte crowley
It gets pretty repetitive as Gin struggles to take down Mab and keep everyone she loves safe in the fifth installment. It started with a bang--it also ended in a somewhat satisfying way--but unfortunately, the 300 or so pages in between all of that seemed even more redundant than usual.
I really enjoyed the last 2 books, so I was actually looking forward to this one, but the thing is, I was already going into this book expecting a 6th grade reading level and a certain amount of redundant filler. I mean at this point, I am no longer expecting any character development, and I've already resigned myself to the fact that all the characters are reintroduced in a tedious fashion with every new book. I was willing to ignore all of this in the name of mindless entertainment...but wow...I really found myself struggling to get through this one.
The characters were reintroduced multiple times here. Seriously, Mab, for instance, was reintroduced to the reader (backstory and all) about 3 times! I mean, there was just WAY too much rehashing going on. Like even more than usual--and not just a rehashing of events from the previous books (as usual Gin is dishing out the same old details of her family's fiery death over and over again ad nauseam), but a rehashing of events that had already happened in THIS book, as well. As if the reader needed to be caught up on the events of the previous chapter.
There were also all these long, drawn out (and totally nauseating-cue-the-heartfelt-sitcom-music) conversations and scenes between the characters that were completely redundant. Gin's friends would be all, "Gin, we want to help you take down Mab because we care about you," and Gin would would be like, "Really? You care? You want to help me take down Mab?" Her friends would reiterate their desire to help again and again, and Gin would agonize for a few pages before finally giving in. This whole scene, by the way, was blatant filler, because even if you don't count the previous books, Gin has already been agonizing over these very same things, in this very same fashion throughout this whole book already. But it gets even worse if you can believe it! Not even a page later the same scene starts ALL OVER AGAIN and repeats itself, as if the author has forgotten she's already written it! Probably, the editor gave up trying to read these books a while ago, but I still can't help feeling annoyed and cheated, as this is only ONE example of the many scenes that was repeated throughout the book.
The really sad thing is, once again, I liked the way things ended and I'm ashamed to admit that I even found myself wanting to read the next book, as the excerpt was actually more entertaining than this book... I still can't bring myself to give this book anything more than 2 stars though, as I can only conclude that I'm some sort of masochist.
I really enjoyed the last 2 books, so I was actually looking forward to this one, but the thing is, I was already going into this book expecting a 6th grade reading level and a certain amount of redundant filler. I mean at this point, I am no longer expecting any character development, and I've already resigned myself to the fact that all the characters are reintroduced in a tedious fashion with every new book. I was willing to ignore all of this in the name of mindless entertainment...but wow...I really found myself struggling to get through this one.
The characters were reintroduced multiple times here. Seriously, Mab, for instance, was reintroduced to the reader (backstory and all) about 3 times! I mean, there was just WAY too much rehashing going on. Like even more than usual--and not just a rehashing of events from the previous books (as usual Gin is dishing out the same old details of her family's fiery death over and over again ad nauseam), but a rehashing of events that had already happened in THIS book, as well. As if the reader needed to be caught up on the events of the previous chapter.
There were also all these long, drawn out (and totally nauseating-cue-the-heartfelt-sitcom-music) conversations and scenes between the characters that were completely redundant. Gin's friends would be all, "Gin, we want to help you take down Mab because we care about you," and Gin would would be like, "Really? You care? You want to help me take down Mab?" Her friends would reiterate their desire to help again and again, and Gin would agonize for a few pages before finally giving in. This whole scene, by the way, was blatant filler, because even if you don't count the previous books, Gin has already been agonizing over these very same things, in this very same fashion throughout this whole book already. But it gets even worse if you can believe it! Not even a page later the same scene starts ALL OVER AGAIN and repeats itself, as if the author has forgotten she's already written it! Probably, the editor gave up trying to read these books a while ago, but I still can't help feeling annoyed and cheated, as this is only ONE example of the many scenes that was repeated throughout the book.
The really sad thing is, once again, I liked the way things ended and I'm ashamed to admit that I even found myself wanting to read the next book, as the excerpt was actually more entertaining than this book... I still can't bring myself to give this book anything more than 2 stars though, as I can only conclude that I'm some sort of masochist.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
lari
I liked this book and the characters as they have developed thrum the prior (tedious) books in this series. Once you get Gin out of the gin joint... there was less repetition and more story development. Still has a bit of maturity to become a bestselling author... but a fun read.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
mookel
Gin Blanco, aka the Spider, is a semi-former assassin. There's just one more person left Gin needs to kill - Mab, the woman who murdered Gin's mother and sister. After missing a prime change to kill Mab, Gin discovers that Mab has not only a bounty on her head but her sister Bria's as well. Mab wants to use Bria as bait to lure the Spider and finish her once and for all.
For as high a body count as Gin has collected through the series, she's also collected an eclectic group of friends and family. Estep's characters are incredibly vivid and continue to develop. Gin and Owen still have great chemistry and their relationship continues to mature.
This latest pulse-pounding adventure with Gin and her crew finally has Gin's big showdown with Mab. With a couple of twists along the way, fans will be excited about this climactic battle. And thankfully, despite a final showdown, the series will continue. This is a must-read for urban fantasy fans. Estep's world of elementals, giants, dwarves, and vampires is truly inspired and always entertaining. Action-packed, with plenty of humor, magic, and heart, this latest installment is no exception.
For as high a body count as Gin has collected through the series, she's also collected an eclectic group of friends and family. Estep's characters are incredibly vivid and continue to develop. Gin and Owen still have great chemistry and their relationship continues to mature.
This latest pulse-pounding adventure with Gin and her crew finally has Gin's big showdown with Mab. With a couple of twists along the way, fans will be excited about this climactic battle. And thankfully, despite a final showdown, the series will continue. This is a must-read for urban fantasy fans. Estep's world of elementals, giants, dwarves, and vampires is truly inspired and always entertaining. Action-packed, with plenty of humor, magic, and heart, this latest installment is no exception.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
dave adler
Gin Blanco, the assassin known as the Spider, has gone up against some of Ashland's most corrupt and cruel and survived but none of them compare to who she'll face next. Mab Monroe murdered Gin's family seventeen years ago and now she's after her surviving sister. Mab is a powerful Fire elemental and will use her deadly flames to destroy all that Gin loves. The planning and waiting is over. Gin is ready to use her Stone and Ice magic to once and for all end Mab, even if that means paying the ultimate price.
Gin is back and at the top of her game. She is ready to use every skill that Fletcher Lane, her mentor who took her in after her family was killed, taught her to take down Mab. Gin is fantastic in this book. The road to Mab isn't easy and she knows it but that doesn't stop her from moving forward and adapting to situations when things don't go according to plan. Even after 5 books, Gin's strength and resilience still manages to surprise and impress me.
For those who have read the previous books, you know why Mab is after Gin's sister Bria but this time around her plans have changed and it involves dozens of highly trained and very dangerous individuals. Gin plans to do whatever is necessary to keep Bria out of Mab's clutches while finding a way to kill her. I was glad that helping Bria didn't take away from the main plot but rather works into it and makes the final showdown even more climatic, and what a fight that was. I've been let down before when it came to the big fight at the end of a book but Jennifer Estep did not disappoint. Tension builds as the story goes along and when it finally comes to a head, it's truly impressive.
All characters from the series are back and ready to help Gin. Her adoptive brother Finn, a favorite of mine, is still trying to use his southern charm to lure Bria into his bed, which led to a couple good laughs and made me just a bit jealous of Bria. Owen and is unwavering acceptance of Gin and all she's done in the past is amazing and continues to show why he's worthy of being at Gin's side. Dwarf sisters Jo-Jo and Sophia also return and we learn how they came to know Fletcher. Their story really tugs at your heart and again shows us how Gin's mentor was more than just an assassin.
Spider's Revenge delivers a great story, plenty of action and emotional twists and turns, all of which is held together by a truly wonderful heroine. Gin spends a lot of time thinking about the past as well as her relationships with the people around her and this tended to slow the pace down a bit but gave you a better look at what was going on inside her head. This is one of my favorite Urban Fantasy series and I think anyone who likes books with a strong female lead, not so law abiding side characters you can't help but love and a solid story will enjoy it.
Gin is back and at the top of her game. She is ready to use every skill that Fletcher Lane, her mentor who took her in after her family was killed, taught her to take down Mab. Gin is fantastic in this book. The road to Mab isn't easy and she knows it but that doesn't stop her from moving forward and adapting to situations when things don't go according to plan. Even after 5 books, Gin's strength and resilience still manages to surprise and impress me.
For those who have read the previous books, you know why Mab is after Gin's sister Bria but this time around her plans have changed and it involves dozens of highly trained and very dangerous individuals. Gin plans to do whatever is necessary to keep Bria out of Mab's clutches while finding a way to kill her. I was glad that helping Bria didn't take away from the main plot but rather works into it and makes the final showdown even more climatic, and what a fight that was. I've been let down before when it came to the big fight at the end of a book but Jennifer Estep did not disappoint. Tension builds as the story goes along and when it finally comes to a head, it's truly impressive.
All characters from the series are back and ready to help Gin. Her adoptive brother Finn, a favorite of mine, is still trying to use his southern charm to lure Bria into his bed, which led to a couple good laughs and made me just a bit jealous of Bria. Owen and is unwavering acceptance of Gin and all she's done in the past is amazing and continues to show why he's worthy of being at Gin's side. Dwarf sisters Jo-Jo and Sophia also return and we learn how they came to know Fletcher. Their story really tugs at your heart and again shows us how Gin's mentor was more than just an assassin.
Spider's Revenge delivers a great story, plenty of action and emotional twists and turns, all of which is held together by a truly wonderful heroine. Gin spends a lot of time thinking about the past as well as her relationships with the people around her and this tended to slow the pace down a bit but gave you a better look at what was going on inside her head. This is one of my favorite Urban Fantasy series and I think anyone who likes books with a strong female lead, not so law abiding side characters you can't help but love and a solid story will enjoy it.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
bradford
I have expected a bang with this installment, what with Gin Blanco having a face to face with her nemesis Mab. I was looking forward to this only to find out that it has the same feel with the ones before. Do not get me wrong, I love the other books that is why I am excited to get this one however having to read the same plot and story overtime is just plain boring.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
anna elizabeth
Seventeen years ago events were set into motion, regrets burned into stone. Yet again Mab Monroe has gone too far and with the lives of her friends and family on the line there's nothing Gin Blanco won't sacrifice to ensure their safety. After all she's the Spider, b---h -the best there is.
Retirement isn't supposed to be this much work. Then again vengeance isn't a job you can just quit. Plus putting an end to your nemesis is less of a chore than a personal public service. Assassin extraordinaire Gin Blanco is ready for her curtain call and the final act between her and Mab Monroe. Unfortunately Gin's hit a bit of a rough patch at work recently, not good when your in the business of killing. Mistakes are measured in terms of life or death, the marker becoming the marked. The only hurting happening right now, is to Gin's ego and it seems like every hired hunting hand in the country is in town looking to score a big bounty on the Spider and Detective Bria Coolidge.
Life isn't looking likely, but if she lives, Gin might need a vacation after this one.
Readers not found of Estep's thorough rehashing of previous books won't be too fond of the beginning. The recaps are mixed in with the action and set up from the start, along with Gin's repeated nostalgic dwellings on past pains and people throughout the book. But I think that's Gin's way of working through her grieve and trama. I do concede that there is quite a lot of repetition from a series of books that is released pretty close together. It doesn't bother me so much, but for those it does and are hoping for cutbacks in the flashbacks, Sorry.
For everyone else willing to see things through, I don't think you'll be disappointed. Spider's Revenge was the ultimate second chance. We find all our favorite supporting characters back and showing that no good deed goes unrequited. There are even a couple new additions who are interesting enough for their own series. And well I think you have to read it just to find out what happened to Sophia and her voice.
Spider's Revenge was a wonderful coda to Estep's overture. All the repetition comes to fruition by the close. Estep creates an elegant ending to the series' biggest thread with a subtle simple symmetry between how things began and finished. There is also a lovely little bookend of the last line mimicing the first of the series, marking the end of the story, or hopefully the beginning of the next chapter.
Retirement isn't supposed to be this much work. Then again vengeance isn't a job you can just quit. Plus putting an end to your nemesis is less of a chore than a personal public service. Assassin extraordinaire Gin Blanco is ready for her curtain call and the final act between her and Mab Monroe. Unfortunately Gin's hit a bit of a rough patch at work recently, not good when your in the business of killing. Mistakes are measured in terms of life or death, the marker becoming the marked. The only hurting happening right now, is to Gin's ego and it seems like every hired hunting hand in the country is in town looking to score a big bounty on the Spider and Detective Bria Coolidge.
Life isn't looking likely, but if she lives, Gin might need a vacation after this one.
Readers not found of Estep's thorough rehashing of previous books won't be too fond of the beginning. The recaps are mixed in with the action and set up from the start, along with Gin's repeated nostalgic dwellings on past pains and people throughout the book. But I think that's Gin's way of working through her grieve and trama. I do concede that there is quite a lot of repetition from a series of books that is released pretty close together. It doesn't bother me so much, but for those it does and are hoping for cutbacks in the flashbacks, Sorry.
For everyone else willing to see things through, I don't think you'll be disappointed. Spider's Revenge was the ultimate second chance. We find all our favorite supporting characters back and showing that no good deed goes unrequited. There are even a couple new additions who are interesting enough for their own series. And well I think you have to read it just to find out what happened to Sophia and her voice.
Spider's Revenge was a wonderful coda to Estep's overture. All the repetition comes to fruition by the close. Estep creates an elegant ending to the series' biggest thread with a subtle simple symmetry between how things began and finished. There is also a lovely little bookend of the last line mimicing the first of the series, marking the end of the story, or hopefully the beginning of the next chapter.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
kayla hall
**WARNING CONTAINS PREVIOUS BOOK SPOILERS.. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK**
What can I really say about Jennifer Estep's Gin Blanco series that I have not already said? I love this series. It was one of the very first series I picked up when I first started reading and I was hooked form the very first chapter of SPIDER'S BITE. Whenever someone asks me what UF character I would love to be or who i would love to have as a best friend I have always said Gin Blanco. If you have not yet read the previous books in this series I would not suggest jumping in at SPIDER'S REVENGE even though some say you can read it as a standalone. There is way to much back story and character/world development that you would end up missing out on some of the best scenes and experiences so far. Having said that I also recommend you stop reading my review as there will be spoilers for previous books mentioned.
WOOT its finally here, the final showdown with Mab Monroe. I cant even begin to tell you how excited I was to get a copy of SPIDER'S REVENGE so that I could jump in and see what would happen. For me it was pretty much a given that Gin would defeat Mab but the way its done and everything that Gin and her friends have to go through was a roller coaster of emotions and events. There is a ton of action as you can imagine, more then one attempt to get the job done, allies in the most unlikely places and emotions displayed you never thought you would see out of Gin. I never guessed who would do what, I never saw what was coming, every twist and turn had me on the edge of my seat trying to see around the corner. Owen and Gin are perfect for each other I'm so glad that he is part of the series now, I cant picture him not in her life (If Donovan comes back and ruins this I will boycott... ok not really but I would be VERY dissapointed With Mab gone I can not even begin to guess what will happen next. The whole storyline of the last 5 books is tied up with a nice bow and I am on the edge of my seat waiting to see what could possibly beat what has already happened. I have said it before and I will say it a hundred more times to anyone that asks for an Urban Fantasy recommendation, You MUST pick up Jennifer Estep's Elemental Assassins series. BY A THREAD comes out February 2012 and I will be first in line.
What can I really say about Jennifer Estep's Gin Blanco series that I have not already said? I love this series. It was one of the very first series I picked up when I first started reading and I was hooked form the very first chapter of SPIDER'S BITE. Whenever someone asks me what UF character I would love to be or who i would love to have as a best friend I have always said Gin Blanco. If you have not yet read the previous books in this series I would not suggest jumping in at SPIDER'S REVENGE even though some say you can read it as a standalone. There is way to much back story and character/world development that you would end up missing out on some of the best scenes and experiences so far. Having said that I also recommend you stop reading my review as there will be spoilers for previous books mentioned.
WOOT its finally here, the final showdown with Mab Monroe. I cant even begin to tell you how excited I was to get a copy of SPIDER'S REVENGE so that I could jump in and see what would happen. For me it was pretty much a given that Gin would defeat Mab but the way its done and everything that Gin and her friends have to go through was a roller coaster of emotions and events. There is a ton of action as you can imagine, more then one attempt to get the job done, allies in the most unlikely places and emotions displayed you never thought you would see out of Gin. I never guessed who would do what, I never saw what was coming, every twist and turn had me on the edge of my seat trying to see around the corner. Owen and Gin are perfect for each other I'm so glad that he is part of the series now, I cant picture him not in her life (If Donovan comes back and ruins this I will boycott... ok not really but I would be VERY dissapointed With Mab gone I can not even begin to guess what will happen next. The whole storyline of the last 5 books is tied up with a nice bow and I am on the edge of my seat waiting to see what could possibly beat what has already happened. I have said it before and I will say it a hundred more times to anyone that asks for an Urban Fantasy recommendation, You MUST pick up Jennifer Estep's Elemental Assassins series. BY A THREAD comes out February 2012 and I will be first in line.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
faisal
Several spoilers in this review...
This book was an action packed ride. I knew it would be exciting to finally see Gin take down the woman that murdered her family but I was really surprised at how much feeling was in the book. From Gin and Bria coming together as a family finally to Owen finally being able to break down Gin's walls around her heart it really resonated with me emotionally as well as suspense wise.
I LOVED how it all went down! The beginning was so exciting with the opening chapter being a botched Assassination attempt of Mab. I really loved the fact that Mab had to hire so MANY other assassin's to get Gin. The Spider really is one scary woman!
I had read other reviews about how Gin was less than stellar this time but I thought all the problems were reasonable considering there were like 3 dozen other assassin's trying to kill her. It makes sense that 36 trained killers in the mix trying to kill her and prevent her from killing Mab would hamper her game a little! So I loved that she came so close to killing Mab on the botched attempts. She had mad skills just to get close to her with those kind of odds!
I especially loved how close Gin and Bria became as well as how Owen and Gin finally admitted their feelings! And Haaa! Finally Finn met his match!
The end battle was awesome and just as intense as I thought it should be. I really loved the image that Gin presented with her ice and stone magic!
What I didn't like.........
As with another reviewer I found Finn and Bria's lapse in judgement at a critical moment out of character for them, considering what Gin was doing at the time. That to me was the only thing that I found puzzling but it isn't that huge a deal for me. I can get past it because there was so much else that was wonderful about the book.
This book was an action packed ride. I knew it would be exciting to finally see Gin take down the woman that murdered her family but I was really surprised at how much feeling was in the book. From Gin and Bria coming together as a family finally to Owen finally being able to break down Gin's walls around her heart it really resonated with me emotionally as well as suspense wise.
I LOVED how it all went down! The beginning was so exciting with the opening chapter being a botched Assassination attempt of Mab. I really loved the fact that Mab had to hire so MANY other assassin's to get Gin. The Spider really is one scary woman!
I had read other reviews about how Gin was less than stellar this time but I thought all the problems were reasonable considering there were like 3 dozen other assassin's trying to kill her. It makes sense that 36 trained killers in the mix trying to kill her and prevent her from killing Mab would hamper her game a little! So I loved that she came so close to killing Mab on the botched attempts. She had mad skills just to get close to her with those kind of odds!
I especially loved how close Gin and Bria became as well as how Owen and Gin finally admitted their feelings! And Haaa! Finally Finn met his match!
The end battle was awesome and just as intense as I thought it should be. I really loved the image that Gin presented with her ice and stone magic!
What I didn't like.........
As with another reviewer I found Finn and Bria's lapse in judgement at a critical moment out of character for them, considering what Gin was doing at the time. That to me was the only thing that I found puzzling but it isn't that huge a deal for me. I can get past it because there was so much else that was wonderful about the book.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
sandhya jain patel
Here it is...the final showdown with Mab Monroe. Gin has been waiting for this moment since she was thirteen and her family was slaughtered by Mab. Us readers have been waiting anxiously for this moment too! She has trained relentlessly and owes it to everyone she loves to end Mab's life. But, one thing is different. Gin is not the same hard core assassin. She has softened and it is affecting her job. She misses her target. That's right, Gin misses killing Mab with her crossbow and now Mab knows who she is and who her loved ones are. Gin and Owen work together to get everyone to safety but they know that they don't have long. Mab has put a bounty on Gin and Bria's head and every bounty hunter and assassin has gathered to claim them. One pair of assassins, Gentry and Sydney, reminds Gin of herself and Fletcher. When she is cornered by them Gin gets the upper hand but decides to let them go hoping that she doesn't regret it. When Gentry kidnaps Bria, Gin regrets her decision but hopes deep down that Bria won't be harmed before Gin can get to her.
Own and Gin's relationship is truly tested in Spider's Revenge. Gin comes to terms with the fact that someone can actually love her even with her alternate career and lifestyle. She also learns that what she does affects everyone that she knows and there are consequences for some of her actions. Bria is also coming to terms with what her older sister has is but the family bond is strong and she accepts it. Finn seems to be slowing down on the skirt chasing because he has an eye for Bria but Bria will have nothing to do with him.
I will stop there with everything because I don't want to give away many details of the book. It is non-stop action as always. Right away in the beginning we are thrown into Gin's attempt on Mab and everything rolls from there. All Estep's characters have evolved and I am curious to see what direction the next installment will take. I really enjoyed getting to know Sophia more. Here story is finally recounted and you just break inside for her! And of course it wouldn't be an Elemental Assassin book if you didn't add in a brownie recipe that made my mouth water. If you haven't read this series yet, you should.
Own and Gin's relationship is truly tested in Spider's Revenge. Gin comes to terms with the fact that someone can actually love her even with her alternate career and lifestyle. She also learns that what she does affects everyone that she knows and there are consequences for some of her actions. Bria is also coming to terms with what her older sister has is but the family bond is strong and she accepts it. Finn seems to be slowing down on the skirt chasing because he has an eye for Bria but Bria will have nothing to do with him.
I will stop there with everything because I don't want to give away many details of the book. It is non-stop action as always. Right away in the beginning we are thrown into Gin's attempt on Mab and everything rolls from there. All Estep's characters have evolved and I am curious to see what direction the next installment will take. I really enjoyed getting to know Sophia more. Here story is finally recounted and you just break inside for her! And of course it wouldn't be an Elemental Assassin book if you didn't add in a brownie recipe that made my mouth water. If you haven't read this series yet, you should.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
jes fernie
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy:
[...]
In SPIDER'S REVENGE Gin's battle with Mab, simmering in the background for so long, finally comes to a head. Estep pits Gin and Mab head to head right from the start, and the fight is just as explosive and difficult as one would expect. On top of that, with Owen and Bria in her life, Gin's emotional scar tissue is breaking up. At a time with the Spider has to face the ultimate fight with her nemesis, she also has a lot more to lose than just her own life.
It is partly that emotional focus that makes SPIDER'S REVENGE so accessible for new readers. Strangers to the Elemental Assassin series could jump in with book five and come up to speed very quickly. Gin (as per usual) starts the book with lots of exposition about what being "the Spider" means. While I appreciated the action sequences in the opening chapters, all of the extra background information had me flipping pages and looking for the new content. A few chapters in, I found it, though "new" definitely doesn't mean "happy". In SPIDER'S REVENGE Gin faces long odds and hard decisions, and her lone wolf approach to killing is no longer enough to guarantee success or the safety of her loved ones.
In reviews for past books in this series, I've stated that I wouldn't feel truly satisfied until Gin and Mab have their final confrontation. I feel like a hypocrite now, as I once again find myself focusing beyond this book towards the future. Gin deals with tough issues and grows a lot in this book, but it's still difficult reading along with her struggle. While Gin's life isn't going to be any less physically dangerous in the future, I am very excited by her progress emotionally. SPIDER'S REVENGE was a long time coming, and a satisfying moment for Gin, but I'm already looking past it to see what comes next for the Spider.
Sexual Content: Kissing, references to sex, an explicit sex scene.
[...]
In SPIDER'S REVENGE Gin's battle with Mab, simmering in the background for so long, finally comes to a head. Estep pits Gin and Mab head to head right from the start, and the fight is just as explosive and difficult as one would expect. On top of that, with Owen and Bria in her life, Gin's emotional scar tissue is breaking up. At a time with the Spider has to face the ultimate fight with her nemesis, she also has a lot more to lose than just her own life.
It is partly that emotional focus that makes SPIDER'S REVENGE so accessible for new readers. Strangers to the Elemental Assassin series could jump in with book five and come up to speed very quickly. Gin (as per usual) starts the book with lots of exposition about what being "the Spider" means. While I appreciated the action sequences in the opening chapters, all of the extra background information had me flipping pages and looking for the new content. A few chapters in, I found it, though "new" definitely doesn't mean "happy". In SPIDER'S REVENGE Gin faces long odds and hard decisions, and her lone wolf approach to killing is no longer enough to guarantee success or the safety of her loved ones.
In reviews for past books in this series, I've stated that I wouldn't feel truly satisfied until Gin and Mab have their final confrontation. I feel like a hypocrite now, as I once again find myself focusing beyond this book towards the future. Gin deals with tough issues and grows a lot in this book, but it's still difficult reading along with her struggle. While Gin's life isn't going to be any less physically dangerous in the future, I am very excited by her progress emotionally. SPIDER'S REVENGE was a long time coming, and a satisfying moment for Gin, but I'm already looking past it to see what comes next for the Spider.
Sexual Content: Kissing, references to sex, an explicit sex scene.
Please RateSpider's Revenge (Elemental Assassin series Book 5)
Gin is quickly working her way up my list of favorite female characters. If I am counting correctly made the top 25 for sure. I will definitely be reading book #6 and most likely more in this series, that is for sure.
Liked the slightly altered "urban fantasy" world the book is placed in, and can't wait to see where many of her relationships with other characters lead.
This is a big one for this early part of the series, the past 4 books have all been leading up to this point. Without spoilers, OMG!!!!! is one of the few things I can say, that and
READ THIS ONE if you like any of the past 4 books.