spookshow's review
3.0
You can find this review and all of my others over at www.readbookrepeat.wordpress.com
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Black Rose Writing, and the author via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Actual rating of 3.5
Viola Thorn isn't your normal Saloon owner. She's a grifter from way back and she can also see and talk to ghosts. She thinks that she's put her past behind her when a spirit shows up during a relaxing, hot spring bath, to prove her wrong. Curiosity gets the better of her when the ghost speaks a quote that could only come from one person - her ex-partner, Peter. When she discovers that Peter is in fact trying to warn her of the plot that lead to his demise, she can't help but jump at the chance to right the wrongs of yesteryear and atone for breaking Peter's heart, even if that means having to embrace the gift that she has being trying to hard to forget.
This took me two starts to get into it. I remember choosing it in my kindle earlier this year, I started reading it but something about it just put me off. When I picked it up the second time, last week, as I've been slowly whittling down my Netgalley TBR list to something that is more normal, I almost put it down again, but I figured it deserved a bit more of a chance. So what I'm going to say straight off the bat is, if you pick this book up and the first chapter or two are a bit of a struggle, push through because the story does get better and more flowy. I feel that the first chapter odd, for some reason that I can't even pinpoint, reads quite clunky and unnatural. I can't even tell you why, because I honestly don't know, this is just the feel that I've gotten both times that I've picked it up. The opening of a book can really set the scene for the remainder, however, I feel that the rest of the story is so much better in this case.
It's not entirely what I was expecting, but I still enjoyed the story. It's set in the 1800s (I think? I've just had a major brain fart), so that kinda threw me off, and it's got a real spaghetti western feel about it at first. Vi is a clairvoyant and she owns a saloon in town. She is interrupted by a ghost who wants her to finish a job in order to protect his wife. What follows is another thing I was expecting, it's just a segue into how the ghost's wife becomes a main player in the story. She ends up tagging along with Vi, when the story picks up the pace a little and something actually starts to happen. Before this point, it felt very slice of lifey to me. Like Vi is just going about her day then BAM! Quote from a former partner appears and the story unfolds.
The characters were well written and I enjoyed the character of Viola, she reminded me a little of myself, she doesn't really give a damn what others think about her, she just enjoys being herself. Her new found friend is enjoyable and I absolutely adore her little valet. I loved the authenticity of the time period the story is based in as well. It isn't shy about showing the racism that was still rife in the 1800s and we get to have the satisfaction of a well off woman defending those that, at the time, are less fortunate than herself.
The story itself, as said above is pretty slow to get going. Nothing is really solved in this instalment, but it sets the story up quite nicely and there is still a closure of sorts, just not a big one. It looks like this will be a story that is going to be an overarching plot that may be weaved into smaller stories in future instalments. Which is honestly something I enjoy. Not everything has to be wrapped up in the one book, but I like at least SOMETHING to be wrapped up, otherwise I'm left with way more questions that answers and I end up not enjoying the story as much because nothing was resolved.
I enjoyed the paranormal aspect to the story and I'm looking forward to seeing how it pans out in future instalments. At first I wasn't sure if this would a series I would continue, but I feel like it's definitely something that I'd like to read the next book of. The pacing could be a bit slow at times, but then, I know that this was the 'set up' book, so to speak. So I'm looking forward to even more fun times ahead. As said in the beginning, if you feel like giving up in the first chapter, try and push through because the story does get better, and the characters are quite endearing.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Black Rose Writing, and the author via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Actual rating of 3.5
Viola Thorn isn't your normal Saloon owner. She's a grifter from way back and she can also see and talk to ghosts. She thinks that she's put her past behind her when a spirit shows up during a relaxing, hot spring bath, to prove her wrong. Curiosity gets the better of her when the ghost speaks a quote that could only come from one person - her ex-partner, Peter. When she discovers that Peter is in fact trying to warn her of the plot that lead to his demise, she can't help but jump at the chance to right the wrongs of yesteryear and atone for breaking Peter's heart, even if that means having to embrace the gift that she has being trying to hard to forget.
This took me two starts to get into it. I remember choosing it in my kindle earlier this year, I started reading it but something about it just put me off. When I picked it up the second time, last week, as I've been slowly whittling down my Netgalley TBR list to something that is more normal, I almost put it down again, but I figured it deserved a bit more of a chance. So what I'm going to say straight off the bat is, if you pick this book up and the first chapter or two are a bit of a struggle, push through because the story does get better and more flowy. I feel that the first chapter odd, for some reason that I can't even pinpoint, reads quite clunky and unnatural. I can't even tell you why, because I honestly don't know, this is just the feel that I've gotten both times that I've picked it up. The opening of a book can really set the scene for the remainder, however, I feel that the rest of the story is so much better in this case.
It's not entirely what I was expecting, but I still enjoyed the story. It's set in the 1800s (I think? I've just had a major brain fart), so that kinda threw me off, and it's got a real spaghetti western feel about it at first. Vi is a clairvoyant and she owns a saloon in town. She is interrupted by a ghost who wants her to finish a job in order to protect his wife. What follows is another thing I was expecting, it's just a segue into how the ghost's wife becomes a main player in the story. She ends up tagging along with Vi, when the story picks up the pace a little and something actually starts to happen. Before this point, it felt very slice of lifey to me. Like Vi is just going about her day then BAM! Quote from a former partner appears and the story unfolds.
The characters were well written and I enjoyed the character of Viola, she reminded me a little of myself, she doesn't really give a damn what others think about her, she just enjoys being herself. Her new found friend is enjoyable and I absolutely adore her little valet. I loved the authenticity of the time period the story is based in as well. It isn't shy about showing the racism that was still rife in the 1800s and we get to have the satisfaction of a well off woman defending those that, at the time, are less fortunate than herself.
The story itself, as said above is pretty slow to get going. Nothing is really solved in this instalment, but it sets the story up quite nicely and there is still a closure of sorts, just not a big one. It looks like this will be a story that is going to be an overarching plot that may be weaved into smaller stories in future instalments. Which is honestly something I enjoy. Not everything has to be wrapped up in the one book, but I like at least SOMETHING to be wrapped up, otherwise I'm left with way more questions that answers and I end up not enjoying the story as much because nothing was resolved.
I enjoyed the paranormal aspect to the story and I'm looking forward to seeing how it pans out in future instalments. At first I wasn't sure if this would a series I would continue, but I feel like it's definitely something that I'd like to read the next book of. The pacing could be a bit slow at times, but then, I know that this was the 'set up' book, so to speak. So I'm looking forward to even more fun times ahead. As said in the beginning, if you feel like giving up in the first chapter, try and push through because the story does get better, and the characters are quite endearing.
blanchen's review against another edition
3.0
[I received a free copy of this from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review]
This book was a nice surprise. Sure, there are som things I didn't like, but overall I liked the story and the characters. It had a bit of slow start, but it certainly picked up the pace with fights with outlaws, poker bets and horse racing. I love a good ghost story, so I was intrigued by the ghosts in this story. I do feel that some of the plot lines were a bit rushed though, for example both when it comes to Tobias and to the ghost on the train. I would also have loved to get more scenes with the forces behind Mary and those wanting Vi to return to New Orleans. Also maybe a bit more depth to some of the characters. But overall I really liked this book and would definitely read the next one.
This book was a nice surprise. Sure, there are som things I didn't like, but overall I liked the story and the characters. It had a bit of slow start, but it certainly picked up the pace with fights with outlaws, poker bets and horse racing. I love a good ghost story, so I was intrigued by the ghosts in this story. I do feel that some of the plot lines were a bit rushed though, for example both when it comes to Tobias and to the ghost on the train. I would also have loved to get more scenes with the forces behind Mary and those wanting Vi to return to New Orleans. Also maybe a bit more depth to some of the characters. But overall I really liked this book and would definitely read the next one.
jensbookobsession's review against another edition
4.0
No Rest for the Wicked is a great introduction to a series that I am excited to read. Vi is a larger than life character that has the ability to see and speak to ghosts. Historical fiction with a supernatural flare, this follows VI's journey into figuring out what her true abilities are. The writing is fantastic and the imagery Darqueling provides paints a clear picture of everything taking place. I am giving this 4 stars. It is a solid introduction to the Mistress of None series. I look forward to reading more of Phoebe Darqueling's book as I really enjoyed her style of writing.
bibliophiliadk's review against another edition
2.0
JUST ONE OF THOSE BOOKS THAT DID NOT SPEAK TO ME AT ALL
Sorry, but this one just didn't do anything for me. Most of the time I just found myself being annoyed with pretty much every part of it. Come to think of it, I can't think of a single thing, that I liked. This is one of those books that I won't remember a week from today.
WHAT I DISLIKED
Rushed: This book got off to a terrible start in my opinion because it was so rushed! So many things happened all at ones without explanation, and with a paranormal (or fantasy) novel you have to give the reader a good introduction to your world. That was definitely not accomplished here.
On repeat: If there is one thing I dislike it is repetition. Come on, why do I have to read the same thing over and over again? In this case it was the author constantly referring to the main character, Vi, as either "the reluctant medium" or "the relapsed grifter. Once it was sort of fun/clever. Twice was too much.
Build up: Or, actually, the total opposite. This book was, in a way, backward. It started off at 100 and at the halfway point hit 0. It never recovered from there.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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Sorry, but this one just didn't do anything for me. Most of the time I just found myself being annoyed with pretty much every part of it. Come to think of it, I can't think of a single thing, that I liked. This is one of those books that I won't remember a week from today.
WHAT I DISLIKED
Rushed: This book got off to a terrible start in my opinion because it was so rushed! So many things happened all at ones without explanation, and with a paranormal (or fantasy) novel you have to give the reader a good introduction to your world. That was definitely not accomplished here.
On repeat: If there is one thing I dislike it is repetition. Come on, why do I have to read the same thing over and over again? In this case it was the author constantly referring to the main character, Vi, as either "the reluctant medium" or "the relapsed grifter. Once it was sort of fun/clever. Twice was too much.
Build up: Or, actually, the total opposite. This book was, in a way, backward. It started off at 100 and at the halfway point hit 0. It never recovered from there.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
FOLLOW MY BLOG FOR MORE BOOK GOODNESS
hopeevey's review against another edition
3.0
This ebook was given to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed reading No Rest for the Wicked, by Phoebe Darqueling. It's a fun romantic adventure, or maybe an adventure with some romance. If you're looking for something light and kinda mindless, this is a good option.
I say mindless, because there are some odd inconsistencies. The one that bothers me the most is that this isn't one complete book, it's a part one. To be fair, it does bill itself as book one. However, I expect a book one to have some sort of closure, to wrap up some threads even while leaving tantalizing crumbs to lead to book two. No Rest for the Wicked doesn't wrap up much of anything.
Without giving any spoilers, I can say that I find it frustrating for a character to regret a past mistake, then repeat that same mistake a couple chapters later. "But," you might say, "people do that all the time. It's totally believable." You would be entirely correct. However, in my literature, especially in a fun romp of a book, I like the characters to do better than human average. It is possible that my standards are too high, but I'm at peace with that :)
I give this one 4 stars as a pleasant distraction, 2 stars for being part 1 instead of book 1. It might be best read once the series is further along.
I enjoyed reading No Rest for the Wicked, by Phoebe Darqueling. It's a fun romantic adventure, or maybe an adventure with some romance. If you're looking for something light and kinda mindless, this is a good option.
I say mindless, because there are some odd inconsistencies. The one that bothers me the most is that this isn't one complete book, it's a part one. To be fair, it does bill itself as book one. However, I expect a book one to have some sort of closure, to wrap up some threads even while leaving tantalizing crumbs to lead to book two. No Rest for the Wicked doesn't wrap up much of anything.
Without giving any spoilers, I can say that I find it frustrating for a character to regret a past mistake, then repeat that same mistake a couple chapters later. "But," you might say, "people do that all the time. It's totally believable." You would be entirely correct. However, in my literature, especially in a fun romp of a book, I like the characters to do better than human average. It is possible that my standards are too high, but I'm at peace with that :)
I give this one 4 stars as a pleasant distraction, 2 stars for being part 1 instead of book 1. It might be best read once the series is further along.
renniestjames's review
4.0
***3.5 STARS***
[I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.]
This is a new author for me and, as such, I wasn’t sure what to expect other than what the cover and blurb referenced. Bottom line – the book delivers a fun paranormal edge to a historical adventure.
Characters always drive a book for me and there’s no shortage of fun characters (alive and dead). The plot features gambling, horse races, ghostly attacks, and past mistakes. It flows well and rather smoothly with character and plot development. However, this is book 1 in the series so while smaller issues are resolved, larger ones remain.
The author’s take on the paranormal was particularly fun for me (esp the shared energy and growing powers). It is set up to explore more in this area too as part of the plot and character development.
Overall, I enjoyed this story! I think the author has a great start to her series and expect the next books will include even more fun.
If historical fiction or the paranormal are your thing, I’d suggest you give this one a try. If you need more info, check out my full review and book spotlight on my website (https://writerRSJ.com].
[I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.]
[I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.]
This is a new author for me and, as such, I wasn’t sure what to expect other than what the cover and blurb referenced. Bottom line – the book delivers a fun paranormal edge to a historical adventure.
Characters always drive a book for me and there’s no shortage of fun characters (alive and dead). The plot features gambling, horse races, ghostly attacks, and past mistakes. It flows well and rather smoothly with character and plot development. However, this is book 1 in the series so while smaller issues are resolved, larger ones remain.
The author’s take on the paranormal was particularly fun for me (esp the shared energy and growing powers). It is set up to explore more in this area too as part of the plot and character development.
Overall, I enjoyed this story! I think the author has a great start to her series and expect the next books will include even more fun.
If historical fiction or the paranormal are your thing, I’d suggest you give this one a try. If you need more info, check out my full review and book spotlight on my website (https://writerRSJ.com].
[I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.]
sarahnz's review
3.0
So, I knew this was the first book in a series before I read it, but I didn't realise it was one of those series where each book isn't a stand-alone story. I find that immensely frustrating.
The book starts strong – good characters, good writing – but lost steam for me as it went along. There are a few irritating typos ("arm and arm" instead of "arm in arm", "heals" instead of "heels" etc), and the main character gets whiny and stroppy in a way that isn't endearing.
Not sure I'll be back for book two, although I'm not discounting it completely.
(Received a free copy as part of the Librarything Early Review programme.)
The book starts strong – good characters, good writing – but lost steam for me as it went along. There are a few irritating typos ("arm and arm" instead of "arm in arm", "heals" instead of "heels" etc), and the main character gets whiny and stroppy in a way that isn't endearing.
Not sure I'll be back for book two, although I'm not discounting it completely.
(Received a free copy as part of the Librarything Early Review programme.)
behindthepages's review
4.0
This review is also featured at Behind the Pages: No Rest for the Wicked
Thank you to Black Rose Writing for providing me with a copy of this book in return for an honest review!
Viola is quite the con woman. She's moved cross country to California with the wealth she earned from her last deception. All she wants is to live her life with a great glass of alcohol in hand, away from the ghosts of her past. As a clairvoyant, she can see and commune with the dead. An ability she has repressed and tried to leave behind for good. And for a while it works, until a ghost by the name of Tobias tracks her down to demand help. Tobias claims a friend from the past sent him to Vi's doorstep, but who? As Vi grudgingly helps Tobias with his unfinished business, she will be pulled back into the world of ghosts and forced to face the consequences of her last con. And this time her power will refuse to remain repressed.
No Rest for the Wicked was a light fun read. It was a pretty straight forward story. Nothing lurking in dark corners to surprise the reader. Vi was quite the character to read, as she tried to avoid her responsibilities as a clairvoyant. She is a strong female character to follow. Watching her use her wit to talk herself out of situations and pull fast ones over her opposition reinforced the fact she was a great con woman.
Bonnie, however, was a bit unbelievable. She seemed to latch on to Vi rather quickly. Granted, I can see how she would be grateful to Viola. Touching Vi allows other people to see spirits, and Bonnie was allowed to speak with her husband. But she attached herself to Vi and just refused to not follow her. The woman would do just about anything for Vi within a matter of days meeting her. Watching Bonnie go through a bit more of the grieving process with Vi's help would have round out the friendship better.
Phoebe Darqueling does a great job putting the characters into historic California during the gold rush. At one point you'll find yourself caught up in a good old saloon brawl caused by rivals over a game of poker. Vi is quite comical as her establishment is ruined and she runs away with the money from the poker game. Darqueling doesn't shy away from the political aspects of the time either. You'll witness the harsh reality of prejudice as Vi's little friend George is looked down upon and insulted by certain members of society due to the color of his skin. If you're a fan of historical fiction you might just enjoy this one even with the supernatural elements added in.
Unfortunately, there were a lot of errors in this book. I think the most common word missing from a sentence was "to". It was a bit jarring to be reading and stumble over the writing due to a lack of words. There were a few misspellings as well. But, even with typos, I would be willing to read the next in the series.
Thank you to Black Rose Writing for providing me with a copy of this book in return for an honest review!
Viola is quite the con woman. She's moved cross country to California with the wealth she earned from her last deception. All she wants is to live her life with a great glass of alcohol in hand, away from the ghosts of her past. As a clairvoyant, she can see and commune with the dead. An ability she has repressed and tried to leave behind for good. And for a while it works, until a ghost by the name of Tobias tracks her down to demand help. Tobias claims a friend from the past sent him to Vi's doorstep, but who? As Vi grudgingly helps Tobias with his unfinished business, she will be pulled back into the world of ghosts and forced to face the consequences of her last con. And this time her power will refuse to remain repressed.
No Rest for the Wicked was a light fun read. It was a pretty straight forward story. Nothing lurking in dark corners to surprise the reader. Vi was quite the character to read, as she tried to avoid her responsibilities as a clairvoyant. She is a strong female character to follow. Watching her use her wit to talk herself out of situations and pull fast ones over her opposition reinforced the fact she was a great con woman.
Bonnie, however, was a bit unbelievable. She seemed to latch on to Vi rather quickly. Granted, I can see how she would be grateful to Viola. Touching Vi allows other people to see spirits, and Bonnie was allowed to speak with her husband. But she attached herself to Vi and just refused to not follow her. The woman would do just about anything for Vi within a matter of days meeting her. Watching Bonnie go through a bit more of the grieving process with Vi's help would have round out the friendship better.
Phoebe Darqueling does a great job putting the characters into historic California during the gold rush. At one point you'll find yourself caught up in a good old saloon brawl caused by rivals over a game of poker. Vi is quite comical as her establishment is ruined and she runs away with the money from the poker game. Darqueling doesn't shy away from the political aspects of the time either. You'll witness the harsh reality of prejudice as Vi's little friend George is looked down upon and insulted by certain members of society due to the color of his skin. If you're a fan of historical fiction you might just enjoy this one even with the supernatural elements added in.
Unfortunately, there were a lot of errors in this book. I think the most common word missing from a sentence was "to". It was a bit jarring to be reading and stumble over the writing due to a lack of words. There were a few misspellings as well. But, even with typos, I would be willing to read the next in the series.
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