A review by wulfwyn
Cassie Scot by Christine Amsden

5.0

I was pleasantly surprised by this book. As a young girl I loved Nancy Drew. I read and reread that series. I never really thought I would come across another detective series that I would love as much. This book has changed that thought. Cassie Scot is another Nancy Drew. I have already begun the second book in this series and the writing is holding up. This series is going to become a favorite of mine. Cassie is 21 and, of course, times have changed since Nancy Drew was written. Expect that sex will be mentioned and possibly part of the story at some point. Because of this, I would say the book is best for teens and up. The sex so far has not been graphic. The books are not erotica. The sex spoken of is at a level of what I would expect for a YA book. The author incorporates it without going overboard. Very tastefully written and, so far, safe for teenagers. The mysteries are interesting ones that involve the paranormal world. Cassie is, so far, not magical though she was born into a magical family. Evan, her partner who would like to really be her partner all the way, is magical. Extremely magical. The pairing of these two is brilliant. I love their relationship and spend a lot of time wondering how it will work out and even, if I want it to work out. I absolutely adore both these characters. The paranormal aspect so far is mostly magical but includes heavy vampire, in this book at least, and possibly ghost in future books as a sibling talks to the dead. I suspect the series will have many books to it, just as Nancy Drew does, so there is definitely room for loads of paranormal activity. This book has it all really. Mystery, a love triangle, family issues, magic and the paranormal world, the " normal " world, friendships and enemies. Characters are relatable and easily become your friend or your enemy. Story lines are tight; well developed, interesting and end well enough that each chapter in this series doesn't leave you lost or frustrated. Over all, in my opinion, this is a 10 star book that is easily developing into a 10 star series. I envision this series becoming a classic for future generations.
I was given the first two books of this series for review purchases. I do not know the author. I had never heard of her before I requested to review the book the second book. The author, generously, sent both books upon learning that I had never read her. (Added bonus she signed them - Woot! Woot!) I enjoyed them so much I purchased the Kindle copies of both books. I will, most likely, continue to purchase both forms - a sure sign of exactly how much I love this series. I want complete collections of them. For me, that is the highest honor a series can get. Usually I only purchase one form or the other. All opinions of this book are my true impressions. When I requested it, I was expecting a lighter version of Sookie Stackhouse, (True Blood), a series I have a love hate relationship with. I was blown away with jaw dropping awe when I realized I was reading a series that will share space with my much beloved Nancy Drew books. I can't believe I hit gold with a modernized Nancy Drew! If you loved Nancy Drew you will definitely need to read this. If you haven't read Nancy Drew then you really missed a treat and shouldn't miss out on this series. Seriously, if you love mysteries, if you thought Sookie Stackhouse had too much sex or the writing got a bit unwound when it hit the screen, this series may be the one you are looking for. I can't recommend it enough.

The dates read on this are a bit deceiving. I was seriously ill while reading. If not for that illness, this book would have been read within 2 days, max.